There were 3 loves in my Dad's life, and in honor of his fondness for alliteration, they all begin with an "F". The first F is his Faith - my Dad was a man of deep conviction, who didn't hold back. He loved worship times at church with drums - and he loved to clap along even though he couldn't keep a beat! When he liked a line in a sermon he'd shout out an "Amen" - often to the chagrin of his family! He knew what and Who he believed, and his faith gave him courage and strength. During the last few weeks of his life he was working on memorizing various passages of Scripture, because He knew that God's word was Truth. The second F is his Family - my Dad loved his family. He adored his wife Carolyn, and cherished his daughters, granddaughter and his new son-in-law. He loved spending time with his family - we called ourselves the "Fun Fam" and we did enjoy just hanging out together. In his organized manner we even had occasional "Family Forums" to "vote" on matters - but his daughters didn't appreciate the fact that his votes counted twice the value of theirs! He also loved welcoming others into the family - there are many friends that say they felt like another Gale girl by the way Dad and Mom cared for them. I especially admired the way my father affirmed and loved his wife - he'd talk about her as a "great gal" - he always wanted to get her a special gift that would take her breath away (usually jewelry!). They seemed to enjoy their empty nest phase of life best of all. The third F is fishing! Ernie Gale was taught how to fish by his father, and he grew up catching fish on Long Island. I think salt water ran thru his veins. He was happiest when he was out in Montauk, NY - at Shagwong Point with a fishing pole in his hands, his feet in the sand and a slight tug on the line.