We asked Globe readers to share their photos and memories of truly fun dads - those that teach their kids to push the boundaries, soak up every life experience and have a blast. Here are some of our favourites:
During this trip in 1980, we were traveling by ferry to Cape Breton in heavy rain and fog. Instead of sitting in our car moping about the poor weather, dad grabbed the raincoats and encouraged us to get out and help the captain navigate through the fog. He pretended to paddle the ferry into harbour, hollering and signalling instructions to assist him, as only dad could.
We danced in the rain, made whale calls through the dense fog laughing and enjoying journey, while follow tourists looked on with bewilderment from their cars. He passed away in 2009, but he continues to hold a huge piece of my heart - he taught us to take in every moment, no matter how insignificant it may look at first glance.
- Jenn Rebidoux, Elmvale Ontario
My husband Jeremy is the quintessential rock dad. As a musician, he's always encouraging our son, Rhys, and newborn daughter, Aubrey, to listen to all sorts of music. He encourages Rhys to play as loud as he can on the drums, and strum away on any guitar within reach. When not working or making music, Dad and son try and have fun every moment they are together, from making games out of yard work, to visiting local ice cream shops to test out new flavours. Jeremy is a wonderfully fun dad. - Allison Kelly, Prince Edward County
My father was a WWII vet, in combat in Europe from D-Day until VE Day, then remaining in Germany for an additional year of peacekeeping. A decade later, he had accomplished what he wanted most after the war: a happy home life and career.
This was taken in March 1959. My father Gerald Robert Wallace, asleep after dinner, with my brother, John, and me curled up in our pajamas beside him. My dad was working as an engineer in Winnipeg. After dinner, my dad would spend time with us, then retire to the chesterfield to rest and read the paper. - Lori Wallace, Winnipeg
Mario Vargas is such a fun dad - he shares his love of the outdoors and his strong passion for soccer with Matías. They love hanging out together, watching soccer games and playing outside. – Diana Gaviria, Edmonton
My family was celebrating Mother's Day as we usually do - gorging at a brunch buffet - when my dad decided to show how much he loves my mum. How he has the ability to charm and embarrass at the same time is beyond me. I love my dad! - Adam Dembe, Toronto
I began riding at the age of seven, and my dad, Scott, supported me all the way. He bought Bobby for me when I was 15 and that was one of the happiest days of my life. Horses are a huge commitment, but my dad knew I wanted to devote my life to horses and he made that happen. - Olivia Anne Robinson, Annapolis Valley, NS
My dad Rod was, and will always be, young at heart. Having three daughters didn't stop him from playing sports or doing outdoor activities. He took us camping and fishing, and always cheered from the sidelines at our sporting events. He's also synonymous for pulling pranks and telling jokes, and he lives every day to the fullest with a contagious smile. – Samantha Hartley, Ottawa
My dad, Geoff Smolarz, was always the best at thinking up ways to get me to laugh, play, and explore... kiddie pool or not! He was a kid at heart – the epitome of a truly fun dad. This photo was taken in the Summer of 1993, in our backyard when I was 15 months old.
- Madeline Smolarz, Brantford On
My dad always made sure we were having fun and enjoying ourselves at all times. He was always taking us up to the cottage where he would take us for endless boat rides or take us into town where he would let us get stacks of VHS tapes or piles of books or comics to read. Here he drove us all the way down to Florida in 1992, for a fun week at the beach and to Disney World. He passed away in 2007, but his message that he shared with us daily lives on:"Work hard, play hard, have fun." - Kathryn Hillary Matthews, Mississauga
Adam began his parental journey with his daughter Olivia as a single father. Adam is a fun dad because he recognizes Olivia's personality and encourages her imagination. From building forts and putting on puppet shows, to playing tea, talking in animal voices and singing songs Adam has not only developed a connection with his daughter, he has reached new octave levels. –Meredith Phillips, Smith Falls
My dad, TJ ‘Jock’ Murray, had a busy career as a doctor but was always ready to join in the family fun, such as this moment in 1966 when hanging around the backyard took on new meaning. The photo is a family favourite, so truly representing our Dad's commitment to family and fun, even in the face of a busy career in medicine. Dad was headed off to the hospital, and I wanted to hang off the swing set but I couldn't reach. He left his bags by the car and came back to give me a boost. Of course my sisters wanted to do the same thing, and my dad couldn't resist having a swing himself.
Today, my children, nieces and nephews are enjoying the benefit of kayak rides, kite flying,etc. We are all still enjoying his amazing sense of humour. - Bruce Murray, Halifax
My grandfather and I love to dance. Growing up he never shyed away from playing with me. I even washed and dried his hair for a loonie (he barely has any)! The best part, he taught me how to cook - a passion we both share. I love him, and his dry British humour, to bits! - Shannon Kelly, Toronto