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Father's Day tribute to former Columbia Mayor Bell from son Rob

"Happy Father's Day to all of the great dads and father figures who have protected us, inspired us and helped us to grow. My sister and I are so incredibly grateful to have grown up in a household, where love was the the foundation." - RC
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By Rob Collins
Rob Collins in the Morning, Q 104.1 FM

During the past few weeks, Dad and I have talked bout some of our favorite memories. From moving to the [Adair County] farm in 1974 and transitioning from that experience in 1992.

During those years, I can honestly say that everything I value in life, came about from those years. My love of outdoors, great writers and music flourished in that environment. I have such warm memories of taking long walks with him through the woods. He would often quiz me on the genus species of trees and flowers, tell me about the importance of protecting and respecting wildlife.



To pass time, he would share stanzas from his favorite poet, Robert Frost, and encouraged me to learn them. We developed a unique friendship, during that time.

When he realized that I wasn't going to be a basketball player or golfer, he never let his disappointment show. It was replaced by support and encouragement to pursue my passions and interests.

He attended band competitions, every weekend. Drove to EKU, during my college years at sat through concerts and was in the audience for every single theatrical production. And, there were many!

During the summer months, we always shared a major project. In a period of three decades, we built two spectacular decks and an elaborate water garden that was such a source of pride for him. We also hopped on jets and took hiatus trips to Miami and Washington DC. Each time he retired from a career, I enjoyed watching him receive accolades and appreciation for the many lives he has impacted.

During those years when I made poor life choices... and there were many, his patience with me was solid. He never made me feel unloved or disrespected.

Still, my favorite memories with dad are those trips to his hometown of McCreary County. In was neat to walk the banks of Rock Creek, to explore a cave that was part of his childhood and to connect with the community he loved and treasured.

Today, those shared hikes have been replaced by shorter walks, for certain. However, shared laughter and great stories are the things that matter most.

Any skills that I posses as a speaker and writer are directly attributed to this man. He taught me how to connect with people. My sister and I are so incredibly grateful to have grown up in a household, where love was the the foundation.

Our friends and roommates always shared the same sentiments. "Your parents are fun!"

Make no mistake about it, I was definitely a mamma's boy, as most sons are. But, never for one moment did my father ever make me less than loved and valued. I've been blessed to have grown up in a home that was full of respect and unbridled compassion.

And, for that I'm am incredibly grateful. Happy Father's Day to all of the great dads and father figures who have protected us, inspired us and helped us to grow.


This story was posted on 2018-06-17 20:55:54
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Former Columbia Mayor Pat Bell gets Father's Day thank you



2018-06-17 - Fayette County, KY - Photo from family collection.
"Happy Father's Day to all of the great dads and father figures who have protected us, inspired us and helped us to grow. My sister and I are so incredibly grateful to have grown up in a household, where love was the the foundation." - Rob Collins
Rob Collins in the Morning, Q 104.1 FM


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