Lisa Kaminski
To my Dad,
As a young boy, I spent my summers with my dad, playing with his Lionel trains. I can still see the excitement in his eyes as we watched them run their course, a simple joy we shared. To keep me busy, he’d empty cans of nuts and bolts onto the garage floor and ask me to sort them—something that, at the time, felt like a game but, in hindsight, was one of his many quiet lessons in patience and hard work.
Dad was a worker through and through. From a young age, he understood the value of a hard day’s work and carried that ethic with him throughout his life. Moving his business from Wisconsin to Florida so he could work year-round wasn’t just a smart decision—it was a reflection of who he was. Work didn’t just provide for his family; it made him happy. It wasn’t long before he seemed to know just about everyone in Fort Myers, using his charm, wits, and sharp instincts to negotiate construction deals and build the life he wanted.
Beyond work, Dad had a passion for his cars and the many dogs he loved over the years. He was a man of strong opinions, never shy about sharing his wisdom. He had a knack for delivering life lessons in the form of lectures, ones that, as a kid, I may have rolled my eyes at. But now, as I find myself repeating those same lessons to my own children, I understand their worth. I hope one day, they’ll appreciate them as much as I do now.
Dad’s legacy is one of determination, resilience, and love—expressed not always in words, but in actions. He taught me that life isn’t about waiting for things to happen; it’s about making them happen. And for that, I am forever grateful.
Dad, thank you for everything. For the lessons, the love, and the memories that will always stay with me. I’ll miss you more than words can say, but I find comfort knowing that your wisdom, your work ethic, and your spirit will live on in all of us.
Rest easy, Dad. You’ve earned it.
Your son,
Kelly
