Al Neuharth

Many men and women in mid or late life have this dual role on Father's Day this Sunday:
•Honouring their father, alive or dead, for giving them life.
•Honouring their children for making their parenthood possible.
At age 88, I fortunately fall in both categories. My father died when I was 2 years old after a farm accident in my native Eureka, SD, so I never got to really know him. But I'm still reminded of him every day by the picture that hangs above my desk of him and my mother in tuxedo and gorgeous white gown on their wedding day in 1922.
Near to it are pictures of my two natural born children, Dan, 58 and Jan, 57. Then next is a big picture of my six chosen (adopted) children, Alexis, 21; Karina, 15; twins Andre and Ariana, 14; and twins Ali and Rafi, 12. They're there with my current wife, Dr. Rachel, who arranged their adoption. Eight children! How lucky can a father be?
For nearly 60 years, I've had children to help plan for - educationally, financially and professionally. No father could ask for a more important role.
The most important thing is to make sure of their education - from kindergarten through college. Public schools are free. But colleges cost money. When a child is born, you should set aside (invest) enough money to make sure he or she can attend college, and/or post-graduate courses - that will really prepare him or her for a rewarding career. So Dads, on Sunday no matter your age or financial situation, your most important role in life is to make sure you make the best provisions you can for your children.
Al Neuharth is the founder of USA Today.
–USA Today