Father’s Day Quotes: Words to Live by from Our Fathers
Father’s Day is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to pause and reflect on the quiet lessons, enduring values, and heartfelt moments we’ve shared with the fathers and father figures in our lives. Often, it’s the simplest words—repeated at the dinner table, during a car ride, or on an early morning walk—that stay with us the longest.
This year, we asked members of the team to share the Father’s Day quotes, stories, and reflections that have shaped who they are today. Some responses were humorous, others deeply moving—but all speak to the wisdom that lives on long after the words are spoken.
Whether you’re remembering a loved one or celebrating with family this weekend, we hope these quotes spark reflection and gratitude for the dads and mentors who’ve helped guide us along the way.
“Fifteen minutes early is on time. On time is late.”
– Karen
The words of wisdom my dad always instilled in me were actually passed down from his father and grandfather. “Fifteen minutes early is on time. On time is late.”
I live by this every day—I’m always the first one to get to events and really try to stay punctual. We used to time when we would leave to pick up my grandfather for breakfast so we would always be 15 minutes early. If we hit traffic and showed up “on time,” my grandfather would be outside, tapping his foot. As he got in the car, he would say, “You know what they say…” We all knew the famous line and would laugh about it!
“Appreciate the journey—be grateful for the opportunities.”
– Cara
My father has always been my hero and greatest supporter—encouraging me through every challenge and celebrating each success. From a young age, he taught us that success is earned, not handed to you, and that the real value lies in the effort and dedication behind it.
He reminded us to appreciate the journey—to be grateful for the opportunities we have, knowing not everyone is as fortunate. He also showed us the importance of giving without expecting anything in return, a mindset that led me to nursing and eventually into health administration and business.
I owe so much of who I am to him. His values, guidance, and love have shaped every step of my journey—and no matter where life takes me, I’ll always be a daddy’s girl.
“Watch your health, there is nothing more valuable in the world.”
– Lori
My father left school in Grade 3 in Northern Greece to become a goat herder and sell cheese and wood at the market. He barely had enough to eat. He immigrated to Canada and became a successful businessman and real estate investor. I’m so proud to be his daughter. He passed away in 2023, but his countless words of wisdom guide me every day, including: “Watch your health, there is nothing more valuable in the world. When you have your health, you are the richest person on Earth.”
“You don’t need to be the loudest voice to be the strongest presence.”
– Darka
Something that my dad said to all three of his daughters was a quiet lesson in leadership. He is no longer here but lives with me every day through this reminder: “You don’t need to be the loudest voice to be the strongest presence.” I’ve carried this with me in many situations, and it’s helped shape how I lead and show up for others.
“Approach everything with resilience and effort.”
– Akif
Growing up, my dad inspired me daily with his pursuit of perfection and grace. He taught me to work hard, never give up, and approach everything with resilience and effort. Those values have shaped so much of who I am today—from how I start my mornings to the way I approach my work and live by my principles.
“There’s nothing quite like a walk in the woods to clear your head.”
– Patricia
My dad loved the peace and quiet of the backcountry in Algonquin Park, especially canoeing around the lakes in the early morning when the dew was just coming off the water. Whenever we were upset or stressed as kids, he always encouraged us to go out into nature. I carry that with me wherever I go—there’s nothing quite like a walk in the woods to clear your head.
In Their Words: Father’s Day Quotes That Stay with Us
These Father’s Day quotes remind us that the impact of a father’s love doesn’t fade—it echoes in the choices we make, the values we hold, and the people we become. Whether through practical advice, quiet encouragement, or unforgettable memories, these voices continue to guide us.
This Father’s Day, we honour all the dads, grandfathers, mentors, and father figures who’ve made a difference. Your words stay with us—and your legacy lives on in every act of kindness, strength, and care. Thank you.