“My father gave me the greatest gift anyone could give another person—he believed in me.” – Jim Valvano

The late basketball coach Jim Valvano led his underdog North Carolina State Wolfpack men’s college basketball team to an improbable NCAA Championship in 1983, widely regarded as one of the biggest upsets in sports history. With a personal mantra of “never give up,” his teams knew that “Coach V” believed in them, and they often rose to heights beyond expectations.

It is a powerful thing to have someone believe in you. Coach V learned that from his father, and passed it on.

At Forest Lawn, we have had the honor to help families cherish the memories of thousands of fathers who, in their own unique ways, left lasting impressions on others.

As we celebrate Father’s Day 2015, what memory, teaching moment or story about your dad is meaningful to you? Please feel free to share your stories on this blog. We’d love to hear from you.

And if you’d like to explore getting a beautiful gift for your father, visit our Flower Shop or our Museum Store.