One year ago, our dad passed away after a courageous fight with Parkinson’s disease. He was one of the most important people in our lives — a father who taught us by example the value of kindness, resilience, and generosity.

For as long as we can remember, walking was his joy. He walked everywhere — tracking 15,000 to 20,000+ steps each day. He once texted us, so proud, that he had “walked the entire length of Italy.” His favorite place to walk was Two Rivers Park in Little Rock, where he found peace in nature and the simple rhythm of putting one foot in front of the other. When one of us was in college, we would meet him there with a camera, and together we’d spend hours walking while photos were taken for a photography class. Years later, maternity photos were taken in that same park, because it had become such a meaningful place for us through him.

The hardest part of his last year was that Parkinson’s robbed him of the ability to walk. For a man who lived for those steps and that freedom, it was a daily heartbreak. And yet, he never stopped showing up for others. He was incredibly generous — always putting others before himself. We’ll never forget when one of his employees lost her husband suddenly. Without hesitation, our dad paid for the cremation out of his own pocket, because he simply couldn’t bear to see her struggle. That was who he was — giving, thoughtful, and deeply compassionate.

As a family, we would love to honor his memory in the most fitting way possible: by placing a memorial bench at Two Rivers Park. A place where he walked thousands of miles, where we made so many memories, and where others can pause, rest, and enjoy the beauty of nature just like he did.

We didn’t hold an official service for him at the time, but when the bench is placed, we hope to gather there with family and friends to celebrate his life. To share stories. To walk in his honor. To remember the man who gave so much and loved so deeply.

If you feel moved to help, we would be so grateful for your contribution toward this memorial bench. Every gift, no matter the size, will help us create a lasting tribute to a man who lived with generosity, faith, and love.

Thank you for helping us keep his spirit alive in a place he loved most.