Well fellows, it's been quite some time since I posted here. I've been busy and haven't really had the time and energy to be regular, although I occasionally lurk about to check on how Gary aka Project-55's build is progressing. For those who don't know me, my build thread is here: https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...storation.html Anyway, I lost the original owner of my truck last month, he succumbed to Alzheimer's Disease. I'm certain he was not the last original owner of a '56 to walk the earth, but no doubt they are getting as rare as hen's teeth. I never did get the truck completed so he could take a ride in it, in fact it's pretty much the same as in the last post of the build thread. But he's back home in a box, so when (I won't say "if", even if it is more likely then "when") I finish the truck I can take him along. No doubt some of you will express condolences, but no need as it was a blessing to see his suffering end. So instead, do this. Pour yourself your favourite beverage, listen to Guy Clark's Randall Knife and think about your dad and whatever is your personal Randall knife. Mine isn't missing a half an inch, just needs to be put back together.

 

James - sorry for your loss. I can appreciate your comments about your Dad being relieved from end of life suffering. It still stings.

Get that beauty back on the road and complete your tribute

DW

 

Sorry for your loss. One of my favorite songs because it also reminds me of my Dad.

 

I'm happy for you in that you've got some great memories. Carry that torch with pride and good spirit!

 

Good luck with building your knife. I'm sure the ride will be memorable. For me, it was my dad's duck call.

 

South of BC.
I sent you a PM.....
......Roger

 

My condolences on your loss. As you say, its nice to know that his suffering is over and he's at peace.

I plan on visiting with my dad tomorrow, and yes, we'll probably share a frosty beverage and have some laughs.

Bobby

 

My sincere regrets are sent your way

 

Thanks for your expressions, but he really was gone months before he actually went, so like I said it was a relief to see his suffering end. My wife and I had been his caretakers for four years, so it is going to be somewhat of an adjustment to not having him around. I first heard the Randall Knife about twenty years ago and I knew immediately the '56 was my personal Randall Knife. Not only because it was the first motor vehicle I ever rode in (and quite possibly conceived in by a couple of frisky teenagers!) but it was an inseparable part of my dad. It was his daily driver my entire childhood, he drove it from new in 1955 and parked it in the mid-80's. It probably saw the road a few more times until 1989 when it went to bed in his garage. And there it slept for twenty some odd years....Well anyway, I wanted to get it running for him before he went, but it didn't happen. Sadly, he had forgotten it was even his about a year ago. But it's on my bucket list to finish, and when it's done I'll ride in it again, but this time, for the first time, in the driver's seat. Like I said, it was HIS truck! But I'm afraid when I do that is when I'll experience the full hit of the loss, much like when Guy pulled his father's knife out of the bottom drawer.

I shared the news and the song to encourage each of you to think of your dad and whatever it is, be it a knife, a truck, or a duck call, that goes beyond what it is and embodies everything that was your dad to you. And don't think of it as hijacking the thread to talk about it or your dad, in fact I'd like to hear your stories. I can't think of a better tribute to all of our fathers.