The Fathers Who Shape Us
- Ralph Cochrane
- Jun 8
- 1 min read
Some leadership stays with us forever.
Father’s Day is a meaningful day for me. I’m incredibly grateful to be the father of two wonderful 10-year-old girls. Being their dad is one of the greatest joys and most important responsibilities of my life.
But Father’s Day is also a day of reflection. I lost my own father almost 30 years ago. And a year ago, our family lost my father-in-law, Tony Fry. Tony wasn’t simply my father-in-law. He was a deeply important part of our lives – a loving father to Jay, a supportive presence for me, and a wonderful grandfather who was truly involved in his grandkids’ lives. His absence is felt. Especially on days like this.
The older I get, the more I understand that fatherhood is one of the most powerful forms of leadership there is. It isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being present. Showing up. Offering encouragement. Creating a sense of safety and belonging. Teaching through your actions, often without realizing how closely you’re being watched. The fathers we’ve lost continue to influence the way we live, the way we love, and the way we lead.
This Father’s Day, I’m remembering the dads who helped shape me, with gratitude and love. And I’m reminded once again how lucky I am to be called Dad myself.
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