Robert Dean Tyler - my dad, turns 80 years old today. Putting this into perspective, he was born in 1936, after the great depression when unemployment continued to fall and Germany's Hitler reign was building momentum leading into World War II. The average cost of a new home in America was $4000, a loaf of bread was 8 cents, the Studebaker Car cost $665 and life was moving right along without the internet.
Dad was born in North Texas in the town of Honey Grove. He has always been nostalgic about his humble upbringing - my Granddad farmed the land and took care of the homestead. He is the youngest of all his brothers, John, Ed and Charlie, but has always seemed to be that glue that brought the family together.
Dad has done the same for our family - he is the glue and the foundation for who I am today - who we are as a family! Dad has worked diligently all his life to honor the Lord with his life - through being a leader in the church, an educator, to serving others all the time. He has taught me the value of how a man should live his life - honor the Lord in all I do, put family first and never settle for second best. You see, my dad loves life and loves to encourage others. As a child, I can never remember a time that my dad was not my biggest hero - at every single game I ever played and at every single performance I was ever in. Even when he did not agree with me, he always supported me and was my biggest fan. I can never replace the value of having a father love me the way my dad loves me.
So, on this day - His 80th Birthday, I day to you...I love you Dad. You have always been there for me and today I celebrate your live and the legacy you have built for me and my family to follow. I look forward to many more great years together!
Psalm 103:13 says, "As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him." My father has shown this his entire life and I am forever changed.
Thanks Dad
Your Son - Keith
