Mr. Speaker, as Father's Day approaches, I would like to speak about my dad Ernie Zimmer.
He was born to two immigrant parents who homesteaded in Roblin, Manitoba. He worked hard on the farm before moving to Dawson Creek, B.C., where he became a carpenter and met my mom and they were married.
My dad taught us, through his words and actions, that being a Christian meant living those values with integrity, humility, and sincerity. He taught my brother and I that God was number one, to work hard, be humble, be honest, and speak up for what is right.
I still remember that once I did not want to attend a meeting, as I knew I would have to stand up for what I believed. He said in his calm principled way, “Evil triumphs when good men stay silent”, so I went to the meeting.
I can still find my dear old dad at the local Tim Hortons having a coffee between working on cabinet projects. He is known as a reserved but friendly gentleman who is always willing to share a table and a conversation.
I admire my dad, more than he knows, for all that he has done for us and for being my example of what an earthly father should be.
I love you, Dad. Happy Father's Day.