By Maria V. Gallagher, Legislative Director, Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation
In his youth, he dreamed of becoming a hit songwriter, teaching the world to sing the songs he held in his heart.
Unable to afford college, he enlisted in the U.S. military, not realizing that war would break out soon after.
But he survived and returned to the States to study. The military determined his aptitude lay in math, so he majored in accounting.
Yet, he still held out hope he would achieve his dream. He thought that, by trying his hand at comedy, he would gain entrée into show business. He recorded a comedy album under his stage name, Danny Victor, and promoted the recording at various radio stations.
Still, there was something missing in his life—a family.
One night, he went to a dance sponsored by a Catholic young adults group called “The 26 Club.” There, he met an Irish lass who ended up stealing his heart. They married and welcomed two daughters into their circle of love.
I was one of them.
I realize that I hit the proverbial jackpot when God gave me the father that He did. My Daddy was creative and fun and loved to make his family laugh. He had a gentle spirit, yet I always knew he was our protector. He was also my number one encourager, urging me to achieve whatever goals I harbored in my heart.
While his songs were never hit singles, they have always been an inspiration to me. The lyrics linger with me always:
I carry your picture
Close to my heart
So you’re always near me
We’re never apart.
My father left this earth long ago, but his memory remains. This weekend, I salute him and all the conscientious Dads who are making a positive difference in their children’s lives.
May your memory be a blessing as well!