We know that finding the perfect words to pay tribute to the man who helped shape your life can be hard. Crafting an obituary for fathers or father figures is not just about capturing their essence in words; it’s about celebrating their love, their legacy, and the wonderful moments shared. 

Who Should Write the Obituary?

Whether chosen by the family or preselected by the departed, this responsibility often falls to someone deeply connected to him, such as a son, daughter, close relative, or friend. This guide aims to provide solace and inspiration as you undertake the task of commemorating your dad, offering obituary examples and an obituary template that respects his legacy while touching upon the serene and respectful tones that echo the love and reverence you hold for him.

Obituary Template: Where to Begin

An obituary for father serves not only as an announcement of passing but as a celebration of life lived. It’s a narrative that weaves together the fundamental details of a person’s existence, their character, and the legacy they leave behind. When writing about your father, the obituary should reflect the respect he deserves, starting with the basic yet profound details of his life and passing.

A basic obituary template includes:

• The person’s full name
• Date of birth
• Date of death
• Age at the time of passing

Commonly, obituary templates also include:

• Place of residence
• Place of passing
• Predeceased and surviving family members

The inclusion of personal details, life achievements, and character traits is optional but encouraged, as they add depth and individuality to the homage. Information about funeral or memorial services can also be provided, offering a way for the community to come together in support and remembrance.

Below, we share various obituary templates and obituary samples for father to inspire and guide you in crafting a fitting tribute to your loved one. You can also find our guide on how to write an obituary (and examples) here and short obituary examples and templates here.

1. Obituary Samples for Father: Announcing the Departure

The opening of an obituary gently informs the community of your father’s passing, including his name, age, residence, and the date he left us. For those who wish, mentioning the cause of death can be done respectfully, acknowledging the shared human experience of grief and loss.

Obituary samples for father:
Theodore J. Frank, (57), of San Diego, California, passed away on June 4, 2022.

If you’d like, you can include details of the death, but it’s not required. 

Theodore J. Frank, (57), of San Diego, California, suffered a heart attack and passed away on June 4, 2022, surrounded by friends and family.

2. Obituary Samples for Father: A Life Remembered

Following the announcement, sharing a brief biography allows you to highlight significant moments and achievements of your father’s life. This section is a celebration, recounting his birthplace, education, career, and personal joys. It’s an opportunity to reflect on what he cherished, like a memorable sports achievement or a community leadership role that filled him with pride.

Obituary samples for father:
Theodore, fondly known as Teddy, was born to Samuel and Susan Frank, on January 3, 1965, in Phoenix, Arizona. He was a talented athlete who loved playing sports and received a full-ride baseball scholarship to San Diego State University. After graduating, Teddy started his own landscaping business, but he enjoyed spending his free time coaching the local Little League team and teaching his sons how to play ball.

3. Obituary Samples for Father: Cherished Connections

An obituary also serves to recognize the family and friends who were central to your father’s life. Listing those he loved and who loved him in return—both those who have passed before him and those who continue to carry his memory in their hearts—reinforces the web of connections he nurtured throughout his life.

Obituary samples for father:
Teddy’s loving spirit is carried on by his wife, Linda; their children, Don, Joe, and Mark; his sister, Joan Wish, and her partner, Derrick, along with nephews Logan and Rob Wish. Preceding him in peace were his parents, Samuel and Susan.

4. Obituary Samples for Father: Personal Reflections

Incorporating personal memories and characteristics that uniquely defined your father offers a heartfelt touch to the obituary. This is where the essence of your father can shine through, revealing his vibrant personality, his contributions to the community, and the loving moments that meant the most to you.

Obituary samples for father:
Beyond the baseball diamond, Teddy was passionate about giving back. He was always the first to sign up for a volunteering event or donate to a fundraiser. From leading beach clean-ups and feeding the homeless to fostering senior dogs, Teddy positively impacted our community, and he will be truly missed.

5. Obituary Samples for Father: Final Farewell

Concluding the obituary for the father with details of the funeral or memorial service invites the community to come together in support and remembrance. This section may also include requests for donations to causes dear to your father’s heart, allowing his legacy of kindness and compassion to continue.

Obituary samples for father:
To honor Teddy’s memory, a service will be held at Seaside Church, San Diego, on Saturday, June 18, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Heart Association in Teddy’s name.

Obituary Samples for Father: Obituary Examples for Every Type of Dad

When the time comes to pen an obituary for father, the vast array of emotions and memories can make it challenging to find the right words. Fathers, in all their forms—from biological fathers to stepfathers and father figures—leave a unique imprint on our lives. To assist you in this tender process, we offer a collection of obituary examples that honor the diverse roles a father may play. 

6. Obituary Samples for Father:  Devoted Father

Derrick held many titles in his life, from artist to entrepreneur, but his favorite role was being a father. He loved nothing more than spending time with his adult children, Lynn and Brent. He was always there for them, whether he was helping them prepare for a job interview or cheering them on at their collegiate basketball games.

7. Obituary Samples for Father: Beloved Stepfather

Vernon stepped into his role as stepfather during his stepchildren’s teenage years and quickly formed an unbreakable bond. He was their number-one fan, always there to offer his love, support, and encouragement. In fact, they even nicknamed him Big V, in reference to his big heart. 

8. Obituary Samples for Father: Honorary Father Figure

Jacob never had children of his own, but he was a proud uncle to six nieces and nephews who meant the world to him. He loved nothing more than attending their sporting events and dance recitals, taking them on camping trips, and spoiling them with his famous chocolate chip cookies.

9. Obituary Samples for Father: Father Taken Too Soon

While John left us far too soon, the impact he had on our community will be felt for years to come. His mission was to end childhood hunger in San Diego, as he partnered with local farms, co-ops, and schools to help put food on the table for children in need. His daughters, Rachel and Lucy, plan to continue his legacy in his name.

10. Obituary Samples for Father: Young Father

Sadly, Chris only had a few years to enjoy with his two children, but he made sure to make the most of that special time. From teaching Greg to swim in the backyard pool to helping Joyce learn her tap-dance routine, his children will treasure those memories of him forever.

11. Obituary Samples for Father: Father Who Fought Illness Bravely

Albert fought his battle against leukemia for six long years. Despite spending much of that time in and out of the hospital, he never lost his sense of humor. Throughout his entire journey, he cracked jokes with his grown children, made silly faces with his grandchildren, and even pulled some light-hearted pranks on the nurses. He had a great ability to make others smile and his sense of humor will be missed.

12. Obituary Samples for Father: Adored Grandfather

Alistair, fondly known as Grandpa Al, doted on his three grandchildren, Riley, Beth, and Jody. He especially adored hosting elaborately themed movie nights, where he would dress in character and decorate the playroom. His grandkids loved spending time with their Grandpa Al and will truly miss him.

These examples serve as a guide to expressing your love and admiration for a father’s unique influence on our lives. In crafting an obituary, remember that your heartfelt words will serve as a lasting tribute, celebrating his life and the love he shared.