The Dads
*
The Dads *
Meet Buz
Buz is a Cincinnati native, a proud Denison University grad, and the kind of dad who signs his letters with a doodle, a quote, or both.
He’s been married to his bride, Betsy, for over 40 years and together they raised three kids: John, Annie, and Rosie.
Buz has been writing letters to his kids for as long as they can remember. Camp letters. College letters. Tuesday-morning-just-thinking-about-you letters. Some funny. Some deep. All filled with heart. Over the years, his writing spilled over to friends, neighbors, even strangers — anyone who needed a reminder that they matter.
He’s a recent PhD graduate at age 67 (proof that it’s never too late), and when he’s not writing, you can find him splitting firewood, chasing after his two extremely naughty Westies (Pearl and Piper), laughing at his own jokes, or enjoying the peace of northern Michigan.
More than anything, Buz just loves being a dad. He’s good at it. And now, he wants to be a little bit of a dad to you, too — one handwritten letter at a time.
Meet Darren
Darren is a lifelong Michigander, a Dad, and a recent retiree after a 40+ year long career. Here’s the catch: Darren’s not really the “retirement” type, so he spends his time finding projects that help him do all of his favorite things. He couldn’t believe his luck when Buz & Rosie offered him the opportunity to write Dad Letters. He already knows his morning letter writing hour is going to be his favorite part of the day.
Darren will be the first to tell you his wife, Bridget, of 35+ years has all the brains. He’ll then tell you their two kids, Graeme and Mara, grew up to have big brains too.
Darren has always been the Lunch Box Note kind of dad - short, sweet and perfectly timed for when his kids were having a rough day or when he could just tell they needed an extra pep in their step. Darren is always finding ways to coach, mentor and celebrate people. He’s got a pretty wide-ranging track record so far: employees, soccer players, entrepreneurs, sailors, scuba divers, his kids, the list goes on. It was never about the job, the soccer, the sailing, the scuba - it was always about noticing what makes each person so special and never, ever letting them forget it. He’d probably give them a business book rec along the way, too.
Dad Letters are new to Darren, but Darren’s ready to scale his Lunch Box Notes to follow along with Buz, Rosie and you on this Dad Letter Project journey. He’s very proud of a lot of people and he can’t wait to discover why he’s proud of you, too.
Meet Tim
Tim is recently retired after teaching elementary school for 35 years. Without a captive audience, his students, to listen to his stories and laugh at his jokes; he decided to join the Dad Letter Project. Tim’s wife wholeheartedly agreed, knowing that he had entirely too many “words of wisdom” for her to handle on her own. Tim is the proud father of two grown children and an adorable Shihtzu named Frannie, who in her own right is a micro influencer ( in both physical size and number of followers) on TikTok. When he isn’t posting TikToks of Frannie, you can find him hiking in the various woods around the area. He is currently still searching for a comfortable hiking boot and is open to suggestions. In his own words, “ I joined the Dad Letter Project to help myself and others stay connected in this often hectic world we live in”.
Meet Andy
Andy is a lawyer in West Michigan who raised two boys who are now successfully launched. They are both married and he has one granddaughter. When they were home and in school, Andy put notes in his sons' daily lunch boxes, often wishing them "Buenos lucko!" on their exams.
Andy has been married for more than 37 years, but his wife is a little tired of his constant dad jokes. He claims to be his own target audience, and feels it's time to share some of his material. Andy enjoys mentoring new attorneys, and he has chaperoned out-of-state youth trips through church. He was a tutor for 4th graders for many years until Covid changed school policies allowing outsiders to enter the building, even if to help a student learn math or reading.
Andy was recruited to the Dad Letter Project by Darren, his friend of many, many years. He looks forward to reaching out, and letting people know that they matter.
Meet Paul
I am a father of a young adult daughter. I taught high school science for 34 years and was also an adjunct professor for two years at a local college. I am now retired keeping myself busy with vegetable gardening, reading, eating out, living the minimalist/vegan lifestyle, walking, working out, and occasionally going out with other retired teachers. I consider myself an environmentalist and worry too much about the present and future. My other interests are in politics, military history, interesting biographies, and the hard and soft sciences. The music of the 60’s-80’s was the best music. “Intellectual”/philisophical conversations are also of interest.
Why I want to do this: I do not volunteer too often. My personality type does not allow me to actually do things for people unless they are ‘close’ to me. I usually do my obligations to society through financial donations. This is one way that I can participate in hopefully helping someone in a direct manner. I enjoy the long letter writing form which is a lost art form. If just writing a letter can make someone feel better about their situation or their emotional loss, then I am all in. One small way that I can actually help someone.
Meet Steven
Writing is a major thread of my life. Back as a kid, I relished sending and receiving letters from my pen pal in another country. I wrote throughout high school and jumped into music. I bought a copy of a Hofner bass used by my idol Paul McCartney and still have it today. Music and writing brought connection. During college, I still wrote letters and music performances led to meeting two legends.
I worked in the public sector for a few years in the 1970s which led to being elected by my peers as a union president. After a serious self examination of my skills and interests, I entered law school. Legal writing was a major challenge since it’s opposite to what I learned- the conclusion begins first followed by reasoning. During law school I was editor of the newspaper winning a national award and being honored to interview a presidential candidate I worked for 10 years earlier.
I spent 30 years as a consumer rights advocate, had an appellate practice, was a court appointed judge and helped cofound Youth Court. I was privileged to be invited to testify before the Legislature in support of consumer protection laws. During this time we adopted our daughter, who got married late last year.
When I retired 10 years ago, I stayed active as a CASA volunteer advocate for youth in foster care and assisted the Immigrant Legal Services program of Catholic Charities.
I live in the Pacific Northwest with my rescue pooch who signs off on each letter I send. It is a privilege and honor to connect with you through this admirable program.
Meet Alan
I’m from the Northeast Ohio area where I currently live. I am a retired public safety chief and paramedic. After my official retirement, I found a secondary yet related vocation in adult education. I enjoyed many years as an EMT and Paramedic instructor. I soon realized that encouragement meant much for students. Most gratifying was hearing from a student, sometimes years later, telling me that I’d become a type of father figure for them while in challenging times. My life is yet evolving. A few interests are hiking, kayaking, writing, and public speaking. I am currently considering becoming a chaplain. We’ll see…
Why do I want to join the Dad Letter Project?
A young father was asked what his parenting style would consist of. He freely admitted that his parental effort would be guided by wise words his own father had given him. The words were simple, yet profound: “Never underestimate the value of a kind word.” Growing up, my father and I did not have the best relationship. However, I had an uncle who daily practiced kind words and gave feet to them. I am convinced my uncle’s intervention changed my life for the best. It seems to me that whether we are fathers, want to be fathers, or simply father figures, many of us recognize there are sons and daughters who want to connect. I see the Dad Letter project as a means of remembering those who made a difference for us … and returning the favor to those seeking a kind word of encouragement.
Meet Mike
Meet Mike. Mike has been married to his wife Karen for over 26 years and has two grown children of his own. He is also the proud dad of his rescue mutt McGee. Mike has lived his entire life in Western Massachusetts except for his four years of college in Southern New Hampshire.
Mike is a Middle School teacher with over 23 years teaching at the same school. Even though the kids are going through the difficulties and growing pains of adolescence, many of his students stay in touch with him as he sees them as his non-biological children. Mike has also been a football, baseball, softball, and soccer coach and still announces the high school football games on Friday nights. Mike spends as much time as he can kayaking, hiking, fishing, and going to concerts.
Mike found out about the Dad Letter Project through his wife Karen and applied immediately when it was suggested to him because if there is anything he can do to help, he wants to help.
Meet Brian
My name is Brian, and I’m 48 years old. For the past 27 years, I’ve built a career as an accountant, but the most important role I’ve ever had—and ever will have—is being a husband and a father. Titles and jobs may change over time, but being “Dad” is the one that defines me the most.
I’ve been married to my amazing wife for 20 years, and together we’ve built a life filled with love, resilience, and shared dreams. We’ve faced challenges along the way, but we’ve also been blessed with two incredible daughters who bring joy, laughter, and meaning to every single day. Watching them grow has been the greatest gift of my life. They’ve taught me lessons about patience, unconditional love, and what it truly means to show up for someone.
Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors—hunting, fishing, and playing golf. But more than anything, I love making memories with my family. Whether it’s a simple walk, a family trip, or a quiet night at home, those are the moments I hold closest to my heart. Life moves quickly, and I try to soak in every chance I get to be present with the people I love most.
Fatherhood has shaped me in ways I never could have imagined. It’s taught me to slow down, to appreciate the small things, and to be grateful for every stage of the journey—even the hard ones. It’s shown me that being a dad isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being steady, showing up, and loving without limits.
I joined the Dad Letter Project because I believe that every dad has a story worth telling, and sometimes hearing another father’s journey can be exactly the encouragement someone else needs. If sharing my experiences—the good, the hard, and everything in between—can help even one person feel less alone, more hopeful, or more inspired, then I’ll consider it a blessing.
Meet Mark
Grandad Mark is a Cincinnati native. He spent 36 years as a Civil Engineer and is recently retired. He still tinkers in Civil Engineering but spends more time now with Do-It-Yourself chores around the house and the neighborhood, and planning projects for when his granddaughters visit. He lives by the motto, “You Can’t Tell Me What to Do, You’re not my Granddaughter!”
Mark found a love for puns when sharing weekly notes of encouragement with a friend who was going through cancer treatments. His niece and nephew have now heard all his best (or worst! lol) puns and he’s hoping now he can share them with someone else who might need an up-lifting chuckle in their day. Mark and his wife share their home with two indoor cats, three outdoor cats, and Louie, our lovable old pug. When Mark is out of the house one of his favorite hobbies is tennis. He took up the sport years ago as a way to spend more time with his own
Dad and they still share a court every…well okay, most…Sunday mornings. They have been lucky enough to play tennis by the beach, atop a windswept English plain, and under the California sun. Mark loves to travel, especially to his home away from home of England. He’s proud of his British heritage and recently obtained his dual citizenship.
Mark wants to hear from you. What’s on your mind? What’s troubling you? What’s for dinner?
Mark loves to sit down with pen and pad and share his time with you. He wants you to know that you matter and that you have interesting stories to share. He’s happy to share handyman tips, his lasagna recipe, or share his shoulder to lean on. And his niece begs you…please let him send YOU these terrible puns of his!
Meet Kent
I'm 66, retired. I was a nurse on an alzheimers/dementia wing for 30 years. Father of 4 and Papa to 3 grandkids. I spend my time traveling, woodworking and crocheting (yes, I said crochet .) I've also been accused of telling some pretty lame jokes.
Meet Todd
I am Todd Butler and have been married to my wife for thirty-five years. I am the father of two sons, one deceased, and we are about to become grandparents, something my wife and I are very excited about.
Like anyone’s life, there have been good times and difficult times, but I’ve learned to weather the storms and enjoy the calm. Losing our son was devastating, but we have learned to cherish the memories and be thankful for the years we had our son in our lives, rather than focus on the sadness of our loss.
I have been a successful salesperson throughout my career, currently for the past thirteen years in the software industry. Humorously, I stutter occasionally. When I was in college, I planned to be a copywriter so I could hide in a cubicle and not have to talk to anyone. Then I figured out I made more money as a bartender than I ever would as a copywriter, and my life talking for a living began after graduation.
My approach to business has always been to always do the right thing for my clients. In the last few years, I’ve reduced my client list to just those that I like. Not a terrible place to be as I head toward retirement.
I’ve continued writing fiction after a long break and have never stopped playing music. Currently, I’m in two bands, one playing bass, the other guitar.
Why am I writing “Dad” letters? The simple answer is I want to give back. If any of my words help someone find comfort, then I have accomplished something good.
And it’s the right thing to do.
Meet Tom
Tom, an active octogenarian, lives in New Hampshire, close to Boston and the Atlantic. After service in Coast Guard he earned degrees in Art and Higher Ed Administration. Dean-ing and VP-ing in universities were rewarding, especially since regular contacts with former students and colleagues continue. Ever an educator, he volunteers in a fourth grade class and mentors adults seeking GEDs. Tom is also a long time Hospice volunteer.
Tom’s spouse Kathy blest him with three kiddoes, now adults, who live in Colorado, Georgia and Montana. They and two grandmonsters are frequent groaners to his BadDadTales.
Why are you joining The Dad Letter Project? I'm inspired by THE DAD and look forward to joining him. I've a cupful of pens begging to be used.
Meet Mike R
Mike R, is the proud father of three adults and husband of Debbie. They currently have two terrier mutts, Figaro and Maestro, who were littermates. Mike was a journalist for more than three decades in Cincinnati, Columbus and other parts of Ohio, and now is a semi-retired writer, focusing on a variety of things that interest him.
Meet Brendan
I'm a Michigander living in Michigan's Upper Peninsula on the shores of Lake Superior. I'm the father to a tornado-as-a-person named Mara. She is the light of my life alongside my wife Victoria and our Aussie, Ripley. Mara came into our life about 2 years ago and really shook things up. She has totally changed my worldview for the better and I never thought I'd be so proud to call myself a dad!
I'm a seafloor mapper by trade which means I drive around on boats and use sonar and other tools to create a 3D model of the bottom of water bodies including habitats, natural resources, and shipwrecks. Right now I am working on mapping the bottom of the Great Lakes, but I have mapped all over the world. My other interests include reading (especially Sci-Fi), going for long hikes in the beautiful northwoods with my family, going on road trips (dads are contractually required to be over-enthusiastic about road trips) and anything in/on/under the water from surfing and boogieboarding, to SCUBA and snorkeling, cliff jumping, sailing, and canoeing.
Reason for joining the DLP:
I recently began writing letters to my friends and family and I enjoyed it so much I bought a fountain pen and some fancy paper! I often write my letters from aboard the ships I work on. Just as I was really getting into my new hobby, I heard about the Dad Letter Project and quickly decided to join up. I've discovered a real passion for handwriting letters, so by joining up with the Dad Letter Project, I'm hoping to help myself just as much as I help the recipients of my letters. I'm a relatively new dad so my "dad wisdom" is limited but grows every single day!