Canadian leaders share lessons from their dads

In honour of Father’s Day, CTVNews.ca asked notable Canadians from different backgrounds about their fathers and the stories, lessons and advice that they cherish. Here’s what they said.

Our fathers give us so much more than half of our DNA — and as many would agree, giving us their genes isn't necessary for someone to be a great dad.

Dads and father figures teach us practical skills, from how to brush our teeth and put our shoes on the right feet to the high art of haggling.

But they also help us learn the difference between right and wrong, how to keep going in the face of adversity and how to sacrifice for the people we love. They pass down family traditions, cherished jokes and timeworn tall tales.

In honour of Father’s Day, CTVNews.ca asked notable Canadians from different backgrounds about their fathers and the stories, lessons and advice that they cherish. Here’s what they said. Some of the responses have been edited for length.

Humility and gratitude — OK, that is two things, but my father, Frank, lived a simple life and never judged people by their appearance or assets. He spent time listening to people and connecting where he could. He was an easy and funny conversationalist but was equally happy by himself.

Dad was grateful for his friends and family and for the simple enjoyment of nature around him.