MY POOR FATHER

I remember many a Fathers Day when I was a boy!

Joe & Rita 1977


Invariably I would give Papa Joe a tin of Half & Half  for his special day in June.


Despite his lack of formal education (10 years) dad was ingenious. He was mechanically inclined and put his hand to many things that gave him satisfaction. At age 14 dad fashioned a small vehicle from wood. In 1946 he began working with  Uncle Al ( his younger brother) And Paul Potvin's dad. Paul does pumps.


The two were compatible from the get go building maybe 25 houses in the Brookfields! I was exposed to all aspects of new home and restoration work. This is how I learned what I know in restoring houses.


Carpentry is physically demanding. Many nights I witnessed my father sleeping in the easy chair after a hard day's work. He was 'drunk with sleep' as he went to bed.Mother always made his lunches the night before. Mother was the homemaker. She took charge of all finances....and she was damn good at it!


Thrift as their middle names. We had what we wanted and didn't go without. The Potvin family - 6 kids lived nearby.


Dad had a curious legacy! He was born on July 18, 1913  Married on April 18, 1936  Died on September 18, 1983 and lived at 18 South Main! Wow.. all 18s.


There's an inseparable bond between a father and a son and it took me a while after his passing to realize this fact. Dad imparted his wisdom to me and I am thankful for having such a wonderful father. Now I as an "elderly type" am coming to realize I will not live forever. From my Great-great grandfather down the line, all buried in North Brookfield, I give pause to my wonderful roots knowing future Potvin generations will benefit from out past. RIP, Dad.

Chase Potvin  Left  Cole Waz R