by Norman Halls, contributor
Remembering my Dad and what I learned from him was immeasurable. I grew-up during World War II. There were both hard times and enjoyable times too. Not as hard as those in the war zone. My father, my brother, cousins and uncles were all in the manufacturing business. So, in my teenage years I spent a lot time around machines. Many Saturday’s my Dad and I would go to my uncles’ machine shop and make tools. Too young to work in a machine shop, my dad had me work in his basement machine shop. I recall one year I spent weeks putting notches in long rods for a conveyer chain that went into a baking oven. So, I guess it’s obvious that I would follow my family. In high school I learned about operating machines. Eventually, I worked in manufacturing too. Having had my Dad’s experience assisted me in my work.
My Dad came from Norway to Massachusetts in 1909. His brother was already in the Boston area, and he assisted my Dad in getting employment. His sister lived in Springfield and her husband arranged to have his cousin, my Mom, meet my Dad. Dad use to tell me what he did in younger days, like riding his motorcycle. He used to ride his cycle along side the railroad tracks to get to Boston from Springfield. Faster than the road he would say!
Learning from my Dad helped me connect to my son. Of course, many changes have taken place over the years in education and the manufacturing era. My Dad worked with a gentleman that headed up the Dale Carnegie program in Springfield. Dad suggested that I take a course. That gave me a different assessment on my career direction. After a number of years in manufacturing, I went into education, teaching manufacturing. My Dad grew up on farm in Norway in the late 1890’s and he had 8 siblings. They had their get-togethers, going to school and work. Not much time to have leisure time. But, that’s the way it was.
Growing up during World War II it did not enable my Dad and I to spend much time on sports. We did ski in the backyard. But, he did work hard and provided well for the family. His work ethic and unspoken love gave me a great direction for my life. His style influenced me once I became a father. Of course, the times were a lot different. My son and I join Indian Guides, and then the Boy Scouts. For many nights of camping, in the cold and cooking with a fire. Great fun. As my son got older, we took father/son weekends. Number of times we went to Block Island, stayed at a Bed and Breakfast. We talked a lot and really got close.
The teachings that my Dad shared with me, helped me in my years as a father. Still does. Thanks Dad!
I hope all the Father’s have a great day and don’t forget your own Dad.
