A FATHER AND SON LIFE LONG JOURNEY

### A Tribute to My Father: The Man Who Shaped My Passion

Growing up, my father, Doug, was the cornerstone of my journey into the world of custom painting, building one-off cars, chopping Chevy trucks, and restoring hot rods. He didn't just teach me the skills I needed; he gave me the tools to start a career and a lifestyle that I cherish deeply.

#### Early Days in the Hangar

Our story begins in a hangar where we painted airplanes. Stripping them for paint was a task I dreaded, but it was part of the process. I remember hiding the chemicals and telling my dad we were out, just so I could sneak off and ride my dirt bike. Those were the days of youthful rebellion and adventure.

#### Building My First Chevy Truck

It was in that same hangar that I built my first Chevy truck. I would sleep on the bench seat, working on it for days at a time. My friends and I would race our cars and trucks all night, often wrecking them. We'd break into the shop to fix them before morning so our parents wouldn't find out. It was a time of freedom, fun, and learning.

#### A Lifestyle Created

My father may not realize it, but he created a lifestyle for me. He instilled in me a work ethic that has shaped my life, even if it has caused some failed relationships due to my dedication to work. I wouldn't trade those experiences for anything. These days, I've slowed down on building for the public and focus more on my own cars, motorcycles, and trucks. But I still share a shop with my father.

#### The Changing Times

Now, at 79 years old, my father is slowing down. It's tough to see the man I always thought of as the toughest guy struggle with tasks that used to be second nature. Seeing him frustrated is hard, and I know it's difficult for him to ask for help. But I hope he knows that I never see him as insignificant or helpless. He's just my dad, and I bless his heart for still getting after it every day.

#### Looking Forward

Through all the ups and downs, my father has been the biggest pain in the ass sometimes and the most helpful at others. That's just who he is. I hope there are many more years to come, whether he's just watching me build or still pushing to do his own projects. Most of all, I hope he feels like he raised a good son who will take care of things if anything happens.

Thank you, Dad, for everything. You've given me more than just skills; you've given me a life full of passion