Paul Anka
July 30, 1941 (age 77 years), Ottawa, Canada
July 30, 1941 (age 77 years), Ottawa, Canada
Papa
Lyrics
Everyday my papa would work
To try to make ends meet
To see that we would eat
Keep those shoes upon my feet
Every night my papa would take me
And tuck me in my bed
Kiss me on my head
After all my prayers were said
And there were years
Of sadness and of tears
Through it all
Together we were strong
We were strong
Times were rough
But Papa he was tough
Mama stood beside him all along
Growing up with them was easy
The time had flew on by
The years began to fly
They aged and so did I
And I could tell
That mama she wasn't well
Papa knew and deep down so did she
So did she
When she died
Papa broke down and he cried
And all he could say was, "God, why her? Take me!"
Everyday he sat there sleeping in a rocking chair
He never went upstais
Because she wasn't there
Then one…
Paul Anka
Lyrics
Everyday my papa would work
To try to make ends meet
To see that we would eat
Keep those shoes upon my feet
Every night my papa would take me
And tuck me in my bed
Kiss me on my head
After all my prayers were said
And there were years
Of sadness and of tears
Through it all
Together we were strong
We were strong
Times were rough
But Papa he was tough
Mama stood beside him all along
Growing up with them was easy
The time had flew on by
The years began to fly
They aged and so did I
And I could tell
That mama she wasn't well
Papa knew and deep down so did she
So did she
When she died
Papa broke down and he cried
And all he could say was, "God, why her? Take me!"
Everyday he sat there sleeping in a rocking chair
He never went upstais
Because she wasn't there
Then one…
Paul Anka
By Keely Chace on May 15, 2018
Father’s Day is an opportunity to tell dad how much you appreciate him. New dads, old dads, granddads, dads-in-law, stepdads, serious dads, goofball dads…There must be a million fatherly types out there, and without a doubt, there are at least that many reasons to honor them on Father’s Day.
You probably know at least a few dads you’d like to recognize with a card and some heartfelt words on that third Sunday in June. If you’d like some creative ideas for what to write in their Father’s Day cards, you’ve come to the right place.
Our Father’s Day guide offers signing tips and message starting points from Hallmark writers. Whether you read the whole guide or jump straight to the specific ideas you need, we hope you have fun thinking about and writing to the great dads in your life!
Father's Day Messages:
What to Write in a Father's Day Card
For Your Father
What makes your dad the best? Well, he’s your dad, for starters, and that all by itself is pretty special. That’s why there are certain Father’s Day cards and certain Father’s Day messages that only work for him.
From just you
From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family
Writing tip: If your relationship with your father is complicated, don’t feel obligated to make your message more complimentary or effusive than you feel. Instead, be warm and sincere in your message. Focus on what’s positive and true between you. Tell him you’re thinking of him. Or simply wish him a great day.
For Your Grandfather
Whether he goes by grandpa, papa, granddad or another name, your grandfather is definitely someone to honor and celebrate on Father’s Day!
From just you
From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family
Writing tip: If the card you choose for your grandfather says “Grandpa,” but you call him Abuelo or Boompah Gary or something else, use your written message to personalize it, addressing him by the familiar title or name you always use for him.
For Someone Who is Like a Father to YouIf you’re very lucky, you have an uncle, godfather or other caring man close to you who has been a unique mix of friend, family, mentor and/or father figure to you through the years. Here are some things you might say to him on Father’s Day…
Examples
Writing tip: Father’s Day is truly for all men who give of themselves with a father’s heart. Family relationship not required. Don’t hesitate to send a card and write a warm message to any man who has been a strong and caring influence in your life.
For Your Husband or Partner
Respect and gratitude are key messages to convey in your card for the man you love on Father’s Day. Whether the two of you are in the thick of diapers and carpools or you’re in a position to look back and laugh together, he will love reading that you have noticed and appreciated the good things he’s done as a dad.
Examples
Writing tip: Men tend to be open to romantic and suggestive messages from their wives, even on Father’s Day. So, if you think he’s sexy, feel free to let him know!
For Your Brother or FriendMessages for brothers and friends tend to be similar because they’re both peer relationships. You’re probably close in age and life stage. You might even share a special bond because you’re both experiencing parenthood at the same time.
Examples
Writing tip: Whether he’s a rookie or an old pro, a dad can always use a little encouragement. Father’s Day is the perfect occasion for a reminder that he is doing a great job with his kids.
For Your Son or Grandson
There’s something so heartwarming about seeing your son or grandson become a father in his own right. On Father’s Day, celebrate him for giving you those grandbabies (or great-grandbabies) you’ve waited so patiently for!
Son
Grandson
Writing tip: Pride is a strong theme for sons and grandsons who are fathers. Let him know that fatherhood is one of the many reasons you’re proud of him.
For a Father-to-Be or a New FatherFor a dad-to-be or first-time dad, his experience of Father’s Day is unique. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for him, and that definitely calls for a special mention in your card.
Father-to-Be
New Father
Writing tip: Excitement and encouragement are great qualities in a father-to-be or first Father’s Day message. Share in the anticipation, or tell him he’s going to be a great dad. Or both!
Warm Closings
A warm closing before your signature is like the bow on top! Choose one of ours, or come up with one of your own.
Keely Chace is a Hallmark Master Writer who loves reading, running and spending time with her husband and daughters. She shares writing tips in her "What to Write" series on Hallmark & Community.
Father’s Day is an opportunity to tell dad how much you appreciate him. New dads, old dads, granddads, dads-in-law, stepdads, serious dads, goofball dads…There must be a million fatherly types out there, and without a doubt, there are at least that many reasons to honor them on Father’s Day.
You probably know at least a few dads you’d like to recognize with a card and some heartfelt words on that third Sunday in June. If you’d like some creative ideas for what to write in their Father’s Day cards, you’ve come to the right place.
Our Father’s Day guide offers signing tips and message starting points from Hallmark writers. Whether you read the whole guide or jump straight to the specific ideas you need, we hope you have fun thinking about and writing to the great dads in your life!
Father's Day Messages:
What to Write in a Father's Day Card
- For Your Father
- For Your Grandfather
- For Someone Who is Like a Father to You
- For Your Husband or Partner
- For Your Brother or Friend
- For Your Son or Grandson
- For a Father-to-Be or a New Father
- Warm Closings
For Your Father
What makes your dad the best? Well, he’s your dad, for starters, and that all by itself is pretty special. That’s why there are certain Father’s Day cards and certain Father’s Day messages that only work for him.
From just you
- “You’re the best, Dad. I love you!”
- “I’m so proud to be your son.”
- “Dad, you’re in all my favorite memories.”
- “Dad, you’re still the one I think of first when I have a question about something or when I just need some support and good advice. Thank you for always being there for me.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to the man who taught me how to step and throw, how to field a grounder, how to follow through and pretty much every other important thing I know about baseball and living!”
- “Happy Father’s Day to the man who put the fear into all my homecoming and prom dates…and who still treats me like a princess!”
- “You taught me so many of the important things I know—including a few choice words for certain situations.”
- “Thank you for being there every day with just the love and guidance I’ve needed.”
- “You’re my one and only dad, and I’ll always have a special place in my heart for you.”
- “God gave me such a good gift when he gave me you for a father.”
- “You made growing up fun.”
From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family
- “Thank you for the example you set and for your leadership in our family. We love you, Dad!”
- “We could never hide how much we love you, Dad. Not even in a duck blind with camo on!”
- “With you, Dad, Father’s Day means lots of tasty grilled things and lots for our family to celebrate!”
- “So glad we all share such fun times together, Daddy.”
- “We deeply admire the good man and wonderful father you are.”
- “As a dad, as a father-in-law, as a grandpa—you’re the best, and we feel so lucky to have you!”
Writing tip: If your relationship with your father is complicated, don’t feel obligated to make your message more complimentary or effusive than you feel. Instead, be warm and sincere in your message. Focus on what’s positive and true between you. Tell him you’re thinking of him. Or simply wish him a great day.
For Your Grandfather
Whether he goes by grandpa, papa, granddad or another name, your grandfather is definitely someone to honor and celebrate on Father’s Day!
From just you
- “No matter how much time goes by, I treasure my memories of times spent with you, and I still look forward to all our times together.”
- “For teaching me to fish, to make campfires and to always be kind, thanks Grandpa!”
- “I hope you know how much I admire the man you are, Grandpa.”
- “You’ve taught me so much without saying a word.”
- “Grandpa, your influence has shaped me in lasting ways.”
- “I’ve always felt so blessed to have a grandpa like you.”
- “Have you noticed that pretty much everything we do together leads to ice cream? Not that I’m complaining. Have a sweet Father’s Day. Love you, Grandpa!”
- “You’ll always have your own special place in my heart, Papa.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to the best grandpa in the world!”
- “I hope I can create as many good memories for my grandchildren as you have given me.”
From you and your sibling(s), spouse, partner or family
- “You’re such a good grandfather and great-grandfather—always ready to hold the newest baby or tell a joke or a story. No wonder you’re so loved.”
- “You give our family strength.”
- “For all you’ve gone through, all you are and all the love you share, we love you, Grandfather.”
- “You’re such an important part of the family, Granddad.”
- “No one else could take your place, Grandpa.”
- “On Father’s Day, we hope you feel honored for all your years of leading our family. And every day, we hope you feel how loved you are.”
- “You’ve been the best for as long as we can remember.”
Writing tip: If the card you choose for your grandfather says “Grandpa,” but you call him Abuelo or Boompah Gary or something else, use your written message to personalize it, addressing him by the familiar title or name you always use for him.
For Someone Who is Like a Father to YouIf you’re very lucky, you have an uncle, godfather or other caring man close to you who has been a unique mix of friend, family, mentor and/or father figure to you through the years. Here are some things you might say to him on Father’s Day…
Examples
- “Thinking of you on Father’s Day, Uncle Ron, and feeling so grateful that we’re family.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to my wonderful godfather. My parents couldn’t have picked a better (or funnier!) man for the job!”
- “You’ve always gone above and beyond to support me and celebrate important times in my life. That’s why I’m thinking of you with special gratitude on Father’s Day.”
- “With love and thanks for an amazing man I’ll always look up to,”
- “You’re the kind of man everyone needs in their lives.”
- “Just wanted to recognize you on Father’s Day for being such a caring and positive influence in my life. I’m more grateful than you could ever know.”
- “I hope it doesn’t come as a surprise that I’m thinking of you today. After all, you’ve cared about me almost like a father.”
- “Don’t know where I’d be without your wisdom and guidance.”
- “Having you in my life has made all the difference in the world to me.”
Writing tip: Father’s Day is truly for all men who give of themselves with a father’s heart. Family relationship not required. Don’t hesitate to send a card and write a warm message to any man who has been a strong and caring influence in your life.
For Your Husband or Partner
Respect and gratitude are key messages to convey in your card for the man you love on Father’s Day. Whether the two of you are in the thick of diapers and carpools or you’re in a position to look back and laugh together, he will love reading that you have noticed and appreciated the good things he’s done as a dad.
Examples
- “I love our family, and I love you.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to the man of my heart, the father of our children, the love of my life.”
- “Thank you for all the ways you go above and beyond every day for our family. The kids and I are so lucky to have you.”
- “I’m so grateful to be sharing life, love and parenthood with a wonderful man like you.”
- “So glad you were with me for this fun and crazy ride.”
- “I can’t imagine anyone who’s a better father or more loving husband than you.”
- “Feeling blessed, feeling cared for, feeling loved, thanks to you.”
- “Our kids think of you as a hero. And they’re absolutely right about that.”
- “Turns out, it IS possible for a man to look hot carrying a diaper bag. I know because I’m married to you.”
- “Seeing what a great dad you are only makes me love you more.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to the man I love. I hope you feel every day how grateful I am for you and for all you do.”
Writing tip: Men tend to be open to romantic and suggestive messages from their wives, even on Father’s Day. So, if you think he’s sexy, feel free to let him know!
For Your Brother or FriendMessages for brothers and friends tend to be similar because they’re both peer relationships. You’re probably close in age and life stage. You might even share a special bond because you’re both experiencing parenthood at the same time.
Examples
- “Celebrating the great dad you are to Sam and the wonderful uncle you are to my kiddos!”
- “I always knew you’d be a great dad someday.”
- “Hope Father’s Day brings you some time to relax and geek out in your favorite ways.”
- “I can tell from how your kids act that they feel happy and totally loved. Of course they do. They have an awesome dad!”
- “Wishing a great day to the father of a few of my favorite nieces!”
- “You’re my little brother, and I love to tease you, but here’s one thing I’d never tease you about: You’re doing a great job as a dad to your little girl. So proud of you!”
- “Have I mentioned how much I enjoy your kids? Way to raise ’em right!”
- “You’re a good dad and a good friend.”
- “Remember when you used to swear you’d never own a minivan? Haha…”
Writing tip: Whether he’s a rookie or an old pro, a dad can always use a little encouragement. Father’s Day is the perfect occasion for a reminder that he is doing a great job with his kids.
For Your Son or Grandson
There’s something so heartwarming about seeing your son or grandson become a father in his own right. On Father’s Day, celebrate him for giving you those grandbabies (or great-grandbabies) you’ve waited so patiently for!
Son
- “So very proud of the son, the man and the father you are.”
- “Happy Father’s Day to our wonderful son. Thanks for being such a devoted father to our favorite little granddaughter!”
- “Now that you’re a dad, you can understand better all the love and pride we’ve always felt for you.”
- “For a kid who used to gag when your little brother’s diaper got changed, you sure did grow up to be a great dad!”
- “With love for being such a great son…and for making me such a happy grandmother!”
- “You’re a natural as a dad. It really warms our hearts to see you with your little boy.”
Grandson
- “Our family has a tradition of strong, devoted fathers, and Grandson, you’re carrying it on wonderfully!”
- “I am so lucky to have you for my grandson. And your kids are even luckier to have you for their dad.”
- “Thinking of you and that sweet great-grandson of mine today!”
- “So proud of the wonderful job you’re doing as a dad.”
- “Seems like just yesterday you were a little boy yourself. Love seeing you as a big strong dad now!”
- “Happy Father’s Day to a grandson who just keeps on bringing new joy to our family.”
Writing tip: Pride is a strong theme for sons and grandsons who are fathers. Let him know that fatherhood is one of the many reasons you’re proud of him.
For a Father-to-Be or a New FatherFor a dad-to-be or first-time dad, his experience of Father’s Day is unique. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for him, and that definitely calls for a special mention in your card.
Father-to-Be
- “Happy (almost) Father’s Day!”
- “You’ve got sticky little kisses and crayon-drawn Father’s Day cards in your future. Lucky you!”
- “Your little one is going to be so lucky to have you.”
- “Happy Dad-to-Be Day, Kevin! You’re going to make such a good dad!”
- “Happy Father’s Day to our favorite father-to-be with lots of pride and anticipation!”
- “What an exciting day for a father-to-be! It won’t be long now…”
- “Your baby will be here before you know it! Hope this Father’s Day will be the first of many happy ones for you.”
New Father
- “You are off to a great start as a dad. Happy 1st Father’s Day!”
- “You’ll always remember your first Father’s Day. (Unless you sleep through it, which might be nice, too.) Hope it’s sweet however you spend it!”
- “God knew what he was doing when he made you a dad—he knew you’d be a good one!”
- “You’re a natural at this ‘daddy’ thing.”
- “You’re doing a great job, new daddy. I can tell from your happy baby.”
- “I can just imagine how meaningful today is with a new little one in your life. Enjoy!”
- “You wear fatherhood well.”
Writing tip: Excitement and encouragement are great qualities in a father-to-be or first Father’s Day message. Share in the anticipation, or tell him he’s going to be a great dad. Or both!
Warm Closings
A warm closing before your signature is like the bow on top! Choose one of ours, or come up with one of your own.
- Warmly,
- Love,
- With love,
- Lots of love,
- Love always,
- Love, always and forever,
- Much love to you,
- All my/our love,
- With much love and admiration,
- Wishing you happiness,
- Warmest wishes,
- Gratefully,
- With heartfelt thanks,
- Blessings,
- God bless,
- Love you,
- Love and cuddles,
- Hugs and kisses,
- Tags:
- Credits:
- Additional contributions by Renee Daniels and Megan Haave.
Keely Chace is a Hallmark Master Writer who loves reading, running and spending time with her husband and daughters. She shares writing tips in her "What to Write" series on Hallmark & Community.
