Volume 24 www.legionnl.com 23 Newfoundland Labrador Command however, Dad gave him the money from his own savings on the spot. Sam and his bride were wed for over 65 years. Dad embraced hard work and would often say he’d rather “wear out than rust out”. He respected those who were willing to work for their dreams, and to that end, he often employed young people with the same philosophy (but no training or experience) to give them a headstart. One such young man from modest means came to him with an idea on how Dad’s business could save money by reusing the cardboard boxes in which the arriving stock was packed (what we would now recognize as repurposing). Dad made a job for him and he later became a very successful financial advisor. Dad believed in giving back; that is, he felt that if God had blessed you then it was your responsibility to share those blessings. To that end, he gave back to others – and his community – through his lifelong involvement with organizations such as the Masonic Lodge, local School Board, Bay Roberts Legion Branch, United Church Men’s Choir, Gideon Bible International – just to name a few. These were obvious things, yet they were never mentioned – just done. He enjoyed “doing”. At his funeral, people came from everywhere -the church had standing room only and the outside yard was also crowded. Afterwards, a stranger and his wife came to tell me of the kind deed Dad had done for them (people he had never met before). Apparently 15 years prior, he was the only person in hours who had stopped to help them change a flat tire during a massive rain and wind storm. They had stayed in touch. Others had similar stories about Dad’s generosity – stories that we, his family, never knew. Giving back was the theme of my father’s life, just as it was for thousands of those from here who served. We will remember them. Roberta Moores, B.A., B.Ed., M.Ad.Ed. continued ...
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTM0NTk1OA==