If your father has passed away, you can write an obituary to honor his life and legacy. A good obituary for a dad or father figure can be short or long – if your father’s obituary is heartfelt, it will be a meaningful tribute.
When writing an obituary for a dad or stepdad who has died, it can be hard to find the right words. This guide includes information on how to write a father’s obituary plus examples of tributes to fathers who have died.
Writing your dad’s obituary doesn’t have to be daunting. These simple steps – and the example obituaries included below – will help you write a good obituary for a father or stepfather.
How to Write a Father's Obituary
When writing your father's obituary be sure to include:
His name, cause, date and location where he last lived.
Tell the important parts of his story like place of birth, marriage and work.
Expand his biography with more details about his life that include challenges he overcame, special places you went to and key memories.
Include close family and friends.
Add funeral arrangements including at least date and location.
You’ll want to include important biographical details about your dad as well as funeral information. Typically, an obituary begins by announcing the death.
Include as much related information as you see fit:
Date of death
Where he died and/or where he lived at the end of his life
Cause of death – this may be especially important if you wish to raise awareness about a particular condition
Example Simple Obituary for dad
Ozell Sterling, age 79 of Cullman, passed away November 9, 2006 at UAB Hospital in Birmingham after a long struggle with heart disease.
This section should include a few basic facts about his life:
Date and place of birth
Schools attended, degrees earned (if applicable)
Occupation and places worked
Marriage (if applicable)
Where he lived
Religious affiliation, place of worship (if applicable)
Military service (if applicable)
Example Longer Obituary For Father
Ozell was born January 1, 1927 in Good Hope, Alabama, to Denson and Edith Hinkle. After serving as a jet mechanic stationed in Japan at the end of World War II, Ozell went to Auburn University on the GI Bill. He married his sweetheart Doris Calvert at Good Hope Baptist Church, and they settled in Cullman County where they raised three daughters. A man of many talents, Ozell worked as a farmer, a school teacher and principal, and an insurance salesman.
Share more details about who your father was and what was important to him:
Membership in organizations
Community service
Causes he cared about
Challenges he faced
Places your father traveled to
Special family moments
Example Biographical Obit for dad
The oldest of 11 children, Ozell was still a teenager when his father passed away suddenly of a heart attack. Ozell was a devoted son, big brother, and father figure who made sure his mother and siblings were cared for.
His hobbies included reading and ballroom dancing with his beloved wife. Ozell and Doris dancing at their 50th anniversary party is a cherished memory.
An enthusiastic supporter of Wallace State Community College, Ozell attended every home basketball game with Doris.
You and your relatives are an important part of your dad’s life story. Consider listing close family members by name
His spouse or partner (add former partners as appropriate)
His parents
Any siblings
His children
Grandchildren
Example PReceded in Death
He is survived by his wife, Doris; three daughters and sons-in-law, Becky and Danny, Kathy and Herb, and Debbie and John; three brothers, Frank (Sandra), Alvin (Betty), Joel (Margie); four sisters, Avaline (Hollis), Olene (Bob), Kathleen (Bill), and Nelda (Gary); grandchildren, Jessica, Carrie, Chris (Misty), Patrick, Lauren, Sara (Sean), and Bert; great grandchildren, Meredith, Lilah, and Will.
For larger families, you may wish to group survivors so it's easier to know how they were related rather than include each individuals name.
Include details about any public funeral or memorial services. If services are private, let people know. You may also wish to acknowledge your dad’s final resting place, even if the burial service is private.
Example fathers funeral arrangements
Funeral Services will be held Sunday, November 12, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. at Good Hope Baptist Church with burial to follow in Good Hope Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Moss-Service Funeral Home directing.
If you’d like friends and family to honor your father’s memory by donating to a particular charity, include the organization’s name. Adding a mailing address or website can be helpful.
Example fathers Donation Requests
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wallace State Junior College, Hanceville, AL.
Related: Writing an Obituary for Your Husband
14 Examples of Obituaries for Fathers
Every dad is different. An obituary for a father can be as unique as the dad being described. Below are obituary examples for dads, stepdads, and father figures young and old, who passed away suddenly or after a long illness. Some dad obituaries are formal and some are funny. Use these obituary template examples as inspiration while writing your father’s obituary
Obituary for a Dad - Simple Example
The obituary for Chris Fuentes is a standard obituary written in a respectful tone. It follows a common structure: starting with biographical details, then focusing on his family life and hobbies. The obituary concludes with a poem expressing love and loss, and thanks caregivers. If you'd like to write a similar obituary, keep it concise, highlight the deceased's personality and family, and maintain a respectful tone.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/chris-fuentes-obituary?id=54350806
“Our dad will be dearly missed by family and friends. His family was his pride and joy and his greatest role in his life was being a pawpaw to his babies. He showed unconditional love to his family and always made sure to say I Love You more than twice, to be careful, and to make sure the doors were locked. He was always a person you could count on and didn't hesitate to help anyone in need. The family wishes to extend sincere thanks to Glen Shelton and the staff at Gentiva for the care they showed to our dad.”
For a Father Who Worked Hard - Obituary Example
This obituary for Donald Anderson is a heartfelt tribute to a hardworking family man. It describes him as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who overcame challenges and instilled strong values in his children. The writing emphasizes his love for family, highlighted by personal anecdotes and his dedication despite long work hours.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/donald-anderson-obituary?id=54183551
“The best role model, mentor, supporter, and teacher – the best father anyone could have… Dad wasn't home very much especially when the older girls were growing up. He had to work 2 and sometimes 3 jobs just to support his family. When he was home we had to be so quiet so he could sleep. Can you imagine that with 6 little girls? It wasn't until his later years in life that we got to know ‘The greatest man we ever knew; the first man we ever loved.’”
Example of a Dad Who Wasn’t Always Perfect
This obituary is a tribute to Marco Antonio Villegas written by his family. It details his life story from his childhood in Mexico to his life in Houston, Texas. He was a hard-working man who valued family and instilled those values in his children. The passage highlights his dedication to his wife, his love for his grandchildren, and his enjoyment of simple pleasures like fishing and baseball. While acknowledging he wasn't perfect, they emphasize his strong moral compass and unwavering support. It ends with a message of love and gratitude for the life he lived.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/marco-villegas-obituary?id=54353541
“Dear Dad…You were a not a perfect man as most of us in this world however your were in peace with God, you showed us that through adversity and pain you stuck with our mother day and night during the most difficult time of her life. You, always leading by example and showing us the importance of honesty and compassion. Your legacy will forever live on through the countless lives you touched and the lessons you taught us. Though we mourn your loss, we also celebrate the incredible life you lived. … Thank you for being the best father any of us could have asked for. We love you, we miss you, and we will continue to make you proud. Rest in peace, dear Dad.”
A Father (and Family) With a Sense of Humor
This obituary for Joe Heller celebrates his life with humor. It starts by acknowledging his casual attitude towards death. We learn about his mischievous childhood pranks and his interesting career path, including his time as a "Dawg Kecher." His dedication to volunteer work and his quirky personality shine through. The writer shares funny stories about his marriage and his unique parenting style. Joe's love for dogs and his fondness for naps are also woven into the narrative. The obituary ends with details about a casual memorial service and encourages readers to share their own funny stories about Joe.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/hartfordcourant/name/joe-heller-obituary?id=2225301&fhid=24219
“When the doctors confronted his daughters with the news last week that ‘your father is a very sick man,’ in unison they replied, ‘you have no idea.’”
Beloved Stepfather - Obituary Example
The obituary for Moises "Mon" Aguilar paints him as a pillar of his family and community. Devoted to his faith and loved ones, Mon was known for his humor, generosity, and zest for life. He balanced a successful career with commitment to organizations like the Knights of Columbus, all while cherishing time with his large family. His legacy lives on through generations who will remember his kindness and love for sports.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/moises-aguilar-obituary?id=54472952
“Mon's legacy is not only one of professional accomplishments and community service but also as a dedicated family man. He was a loving husband of 38 years to his beloved wife, Consuelo Aguilar, and a cherished stepfather to Manuel (Olinda) Salazar, Norma (Emiliano) Alaniz, Velma (Robert) Moreno, and father to Moises (Michelle) Aguilar Jr., and Debbie (Tito) Munoz.”
Devoted Father and Father-in-Law - Obituary Example
This is an obituary for Joseph E. Doherty Jr., a 91-year-old resident of Dedham, Massachusetts. He served in the Korean War and later had a successful career in healthcare, eventually becoming the Director of Environmental Services at two hospitals. He was a devoted family man who cherished spending time with his large family and friends. Active in his community, he served on the Dedham Finance Committee and was a Town Meeting Member. The obituary concludes with details about funeral arrangements and donations in his memory.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bostonglobe/name/joseph-doherty-obituary?id=54473832
“Devoted father of Kathleen Kenney and her partner, Gerard Lucas, Kelly Lovely and her husband, Chuck Valenza, Alison Miceli and her husband, Keith Miceli, Paul Doherty, Kristen Waters and her husband, Greg and Robert Doherty. Father-in-law of the late John Kenney.”
For a Father Figure - Example
Quentin Eugene Lowe, known as Quennie, passed away at his home in New Buffalo on Christmas morning at the age of 84. Though not their biological father, Quennie was a devoted husband, father figure to an exchange student, and beloved grandpa who will be remembered for his humor, love of family, and enjoyment of the simple things in life.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/harborcountry-news/name/quentin-lowe-obituary?id=53998205
“In 2004 the couple took an exchange student from South Korea who became like a daughter and remained with them for several years…He couldn't have asked for better daughters, they stayed right by his side for the last six weeks, caring for their beloved dad, the best father ever according to them… He is survived by … his two daughters Kimberly [and] Kelly … and honorary daughter Dr. Da-Eun Kim of Seoul, South Korea.”
For a Father Who Lived a Long Life
Norbert Thomas Gallenberger, described in his obituary as a devoted family man and friend, was a person who valued relationships and enjoyed life to the fullest. The family highlighted his military service, dedication to his family, and entrepreneurial spirit. Norbert's love for dancing, helping others, camping, and traveling was emphasized, showcasing a life rich with experiences and connections. The obituary paints a picture of a man who was not only a great husband and father but also a cherished friend to many, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and love.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/norbert-gallenberger-obituary?id=54010104
“Norbert Thomas Gallenberger, age 91 of Manitowoc, passed away Saturday afternoon, December 30, 2023 at the Hamilton Health in Two Rivers with his loving daughter at his side… Norbert's family meant everything to him, he was a great husband, but most of all he was the best father ever, definitely one of a kind.”
Dad Who Died After a Long Illness - Example
This obituary is a well-written tribute to Michael "Mike" Bynum. It follows a common format that you can use for your father's obituary. Start by announcing his passing and age, then mention the illness he battled. You can include details about his birth, family background, and where he grew up. Share some personal anecdotes about his personality, interests, and hobbies. List his surviving children, siblings, and other close relatives. Finally, mention any funeral or memorial service details.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/michael-romdale-bynum-obituary?id=53193825
“He fought a long battle with kidney disease, all the while still thanking God for blessing him…He was a great Dad and loved his sons, he always wanted the best for them.”
Father Who Passed Away Suddenly - Obituary Example
This obituary for Chandradat "Reds" Mohabir is a beautiful tribute to a father who passed away suddenly. It can serve as a guide writing an obituary for your own dad. Start by announcing his unexpected passing and age. Briefly describe his kind and humorous personality. Then, follow with details about his birth, parents, and siblings. Mention his wife and children, highlighting their names and special moments. You can include details about his career and the places he lived. Finally, mention surviving relatives and close friends. End by emphasizing his positive qualities and the impact he had on others.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/chandradat-mohabir-obituary?id=54152100
“Chandradat Mohabir unexpectedly passed away on January 18th, 2024 at the age of 57. He was the most wonderful and caring person you could ever meet, but most importantly the best father and husband. Everyone knew him as Reds and once he entered the room it would become filled with laughter.”
For a Young Father Gone Too Soon - Obituary Example
This obituary for Jesse Gonzalez offers a touching example to guide you as you write about your father who passed away unexpectedly. Begin by capturing the reader's attention with the sadness of his early passing and his age. Acknowledge any family members who passed before him. Continue by listing those who survive him, including his spouse, children, siblings, and their spouses. Craft a section detailing his personality, including his interests, sense of humor, and unique perspective on life. Share stories or anecdotes that illustrate these aspects. Mention his career and any passions he pursued outside of work. Most importantly, focus on his role as a father and husband, highlighting his dedication and love for his family. Conclude by expressing the profound loss felt by those who knew him.
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/jesse-gonzalez-obituary?id=54418751
“Above all else Jesse was the best Father and Husband. He always made sure his little family was taken care of. He never missed a doctor's appointment during their pregnancy and later on any school or sport event for his daughter. Time with them was the most important thing to him. Jesse was taken from us far too soon. He is missed by anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
Dad Who Died After a Short Illness - Obituary Example
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/douglas-moon-obituary?id=54434701
“Douglas Edward Moon, 59, of Savannah, Georgia passed away on Sunday, February 18th at St. Joseph's hospital after a short illness… He loved his family with all of his heart! He loved his wife of 36 years, Cheryl Moon, and had two beautiful children, Jacob Isaac Moon and Sarah Victoria Moon. Douglas was the best father, supporting his children with their passions. He shared his love of the outdoors with Jake. He was a Boy Scout leader in Troop 499, Grayson, Georgia, and supported Jake as he earned his Eagle Scout Award. Sarah shared his love for country music and horses. They often spent their Saturdays at the barn, riding and taking care of horses.”
For a Dad Who Died by Suicide
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/hartfordcourant/name/jason-hannigan-obituary?id=36810823
“Jason Hannigan gave of himself until he no longer could. Jason cherished his sons Owen and Jojo and instilled in them the importance of being the best person you could be and living life to the fullest. One of his favorite activities was telling stories and sharing the adventures and accomplishments of his children. His family and extended family meant the world to him. He will always be dad. We will miss him.”
For a Father Who Battled Mental Illness
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/brad-perez-obituary?id=36305965
“He took great pride in raising his boys, Elijah and Lucas, to be good, loving and kind, to work hard and to be there for each other and for family. He loved them more than anything in this world, and devoted himself to being the father he knew his boys needed… Brad battled mental illness throughout his life and was actively seeking help at the time of his death. He wanted to feel better and be there for his family and loved ones. We can honor him by taking great care with our own mental health and raising our children to do the same. We can also raise our voices to advocate for greater access to mental healthcare and coverage. If you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.”
FAQ - Father's Obituary
What is a good short obituary example?
[Dad's Name], a loving husband, father, and [grandfather/great-grandfather (optional)], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at the age of [age]. [Dad's Name] was born in [city, state] on [date of birth] to [parents' names (optional)]. He was known for his [positive personality trait (e.g., kindness, humor, generosity)] and his passion for [hobby or interest]. He will be dearly missed by his many friends and family. [Dad's Name] is survived by his wife, [Mom's Name]; children, [list of children's names]; and [number] grandchildren [and number] great-grandchildren (optional). A memorial service will be held on [date] at [time] at [location (optional)]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [charity name (optional)]. [Optional: Include a short sentence or two about your dad's work or accomplishments.]
How do you write about a father who passed away?
Losing a father is a deeply personal experience. Writing an obituary can be a way to publicly honor his life and share your grief with the community. Here's how to write about your father in an obituary, while emphasizing its importance: A Public Tribute: An obituary allows you to share memories of your father with friends, family, and even those who knew him professionally. It's a public way to celebrate his life and legacy. A Comforting Process: Writing about your father can be a therapeutic way to process your emotions and reflect on the positive impact he had on you. Historical Record: Obituaries become a part of your family's history. Future generations can learn about your father and his life through this record. Writing about your Father: Start with the Basics: Include his name, date of birth and passing, and age. Capture His Essence: Describe his personality with a few key words or a short anecdote. Was he known for his humor, kindness, or work ethic? Family and Background: Mention his parents (optional) and siblings. Where was he born and raised? Career and Accomplishments: Briefly mention his profession and any notable achievements. Family Man: List his surviving spouse, children, grandchildren (optional), and any close relatives. Service Information (Optional): Include details of a memorial service or funeral, if applicable. Charitable Donations (Optional): Suggest a charity that reflects your father's interests, in lieu of flowers. Here's a Template You Can Use: [Dad's Name], a loving husband, father, and [grandfather/great-grandfather (optional)], passed away peacefully on [date of death] at the age of [age]. [Dad's Name] was born in [city, state] on [date of birth] to [parents' names (optional)]. He was known for his [positive personality trait] and his passion for [hobby or interest]. [Optional: Include a short anecdote that reflects his personality]. [Dad's Name] is survived by his wife, [Mom's Name]; children, [list of children's names]; and [number] grandchildren [and number] great-grandchildren (optional). A memorial service will be held on [date] at [time] at [location (optional)]. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to [charity name (optional)]. [Optional: Include a short sentence or two about your dad's work or accomplishments.] Writing an obituary can be a difficult yet meaningful way to honor your father's memory. Take your time, share your stories, and create a lasting tribute to the man who shaped your life.
