“My dad is really good at supporting me, my siblings, and my mom and making us feel our best,” says Evans Nielsen. “With my dad, I feel like there’s a never-ending well of support and encouragement. He does his best to make us feel like we can do anything, and it’s been that way my whole life. He can be tough sometimes, but it comes from a place of love and knowing our potential. With his words of advice, he always follows through with words of love and kindness. Because of my dad, I feel like I can do anything and I know he will always be there beside me.”

Evans also shared a favorite memory: “The best trip I’ve ever had with my dad was when we went to Denmark together a couple years ago. We got to spend time with our family in a closer way than ever before, and it was really refreshing to see my dad, in real-time, be able to heal from parts of his past. I really value that trip and time I got to spend with him, and I’ll remember it forever.”

“My favorite memory was when my mom left on a trip to Africa and we had our dad to ourselves for two weeks,” says Carys Nielsen. “I remember lots of pancakes, brownies, movies, and playtime. He can make your day better with a snap of his fingers. He’s always himself.”

Søren Nielsen adds, “We both really love cars,” and says he treasures “the trips the two of us took with our friends to the mountains. We went fishing, rode ATVs, and hiked.”

Together, Evans, Carys, and Søren describe their dad as generous, intelligent, and always present—making every moment with him unforgettable.

 Greg Klenke

“My favorite memory with my dad is when my mom and sister were out of town—we got a bucket of fried chicken legs (not a mom-approved dinner :D), watched the first two Hobbit movies, then went to see the new one in theaters!” says Rachel Klenke. Morgan adds, “My favorite memory with my dad is watching sports and cooking shows together in the morning when no one else was awake. Some of his best recipes—my personal favorite is lemon pudding cakes—have come from those Food Network mornings!”

“Our dad has taught us how to make the best out of any situation,” they share. “Whether it’s forgetting our soccer cleats after a five-hour drive to a game or a rainy day on vacation, he always keeps a level head and manages to crack a good joke.”

Every year, the sisters look forward to baking Grandma Bev’s Christmas cookies with their dad, a family tradition they proudly continue. “Our dad is always happy sharing new recipes with us and playing a competitive game of Mario Kart (which I usually win ;) —Rachel) when we’re all home together,” they say. “And of course, a beautiful day on the golf course!”

“Our dad has the best sense of humor and brightens any room,” they add. “He’s always there for us whenever we need him and will always put a smile on our face.”
 
 Donnie Williams

“My dad taught me the value of hard work,” says Katie Williams Dyson. “He taught me to work hard, use power tools, and—most importantly—how to be kind and generous to others.” Whether it’s fixing something around the house or surprising someone with a thoughtful gesture, big or small, Katie says her dad’s skills and heart always shine through.

“He’s a whiz at crossword puzzles—he’s never met one he can’t finish!” she adds. Katie loves sharing laughs with her dad watching Seinfeld, cheering on NC State Wolfpack football, or enjoying a good nap after a win. “He’s kind, compassionate, and giving,” Katie says. “And he can literally fix anything!”

“My favorite memory with my dad is the day he introduced me to volunteering,” says Sarah Eakes. “He took me to serve dinner at Potter’s House, and it changed my life. Getting to experience that moment with him is one I will always carry with me.”

Sarah says her dad has taught her that “hard work is always rewarding—the reward comes in how it feels, not recognition from others.” She’s been inspired by his passion for Rotary, his family, and his work. “He influenced me to not only have passion, but to turn it into drive to achieve my goals,” she explains.

Patrick’s warmth fills every room. “He makes ordinary days special by bringing light and positive energy when the rest of us can’t,” Sarah says. Whether sharing Saturday night dinners, whitewater rafting every summer, or laughing at his classic dad jokes, Patrick always puts his family first. “I love that my dad has always made time for my brother and me, especially when we are in need,” Sarah says. “He’ll stop everything to help.”