My American dad - Frank

It was in July 25 years ago, I remember it as it was yesterday, I think it was about 2 am in the morning when I stepped out of the bus that took me from JFK airport to the very south of New Jersey. Outside Marian and Frank were waiting for me, my new American parents. I was so exited about spending a full year with them and the rest of the family at the Jersey shores.

All the other exchange students were a bit shy and greeted their new families with a handshake, Marian, Frank and I threw us in each others arms like I was a long lost daughter coming home. The whole year was like that, I was a part of the family from the very first minute . I was home.

The love for my new American family and US grew every day during my year, and I was determined that one day I was coming back And I did. It was easy to move to New York, part of my family was here. I being a part of the Getzke family didn’t end because I went back to Norway; it just grew larger when I came back to Northfield bringing Odd Roar and the children.

Frank and I had a very special relationship; he knew when I was sad. And he knew what made me happy. Raspberry and cream Dunkin’ donuts and bowling. And a strawberry daiquiri.

When Marian had her art classes, once a week, Frank took me out for dinner. Always at the Library. There we had our weekly father – daughter talk.
When I got my first boyfriend he checked with the local police if he was a good guy, he wasn’t. And Frank was a strict father so that was the end of that dude.
But mostly he was a good, warm and caring father, and he always introduced me as his Norwegian daughter. I loved that.

I knew Frank was ill, I knew he had to go through surgery but I also knew he was going to be alright. I was wrong. When the text message came from Tom and Eleanor, I knew, he had left us.

Frank lost his love of his life, Marian, a year a go. That broke his heart. Today our hearts are broken; we have lost our Frank, way too early.

I hope I told you how much I love you and Marian and how grateful I am that you opened the doors and your hearts for me and made me a part of the family. That has truly changed my life. I will miss you Frank, but I also know that you have peace now, being together with your wonderful Marian.

My heart has lost a piece.