This was read as part of the words of remembrance at the celebration of life (9/3/13) by David's son, Jeffery:
My tribute - Allan Peterson
When Davelynn prayed the other evening and her first word was “father,” I realized what I wanted to say to the family and others who might be listening.
David Chun was an accomplished and ambitious man. He spoke with pride of being able to have his own home where nobody could tell him to move out. He accomplished much with what he was given. Although he was limited in his educational opportunities, he worked hard, was careful with his money and made a good living for himself, his wife and his children. He worked many years as a fireman in a perilous and physically-demanding profession. Accordingly, he kept himself exceedingly fit long into his old age; it showed when he regularly beat his son-in-law in racquetball. He also served honorably in the Army. He and Angeline were life-long partners.
But for all his accomplishments, I think that David Chun’s greatest achievement was as a father. In a day when many men have become ‘fathers’ by bearing children, David Chun lived as a father to his children, grandfather to his grandchildren and great-grandfather to his great-grandchildren. Fatherhood is a daunting and difficult task. His example is helpful to us all.
Three characteristics of fathers I think are essential, all of which people can see in his example.
David was a strong man. A father who is not strong cannot provide for his family or protect them. He was physically strong, but he was also strong in character, self-discipline and will. Anyone who knew David knew that he held his views firmly and would fight for them if necessary. As a strong father, he was able to protect and provide for his family. He worked hard so that his family was built up.
David also loved his family. This is shown in the pride he took in all of his children completing college and getting good jobs. He delighted in the accomplishments of his children and hearing of what his grand-children were doing. I felt the love of the family as I was accepted in as a son-in-law, and included as a family member.
David also was present. Maybe this characteristic is taken for granted; but it is not by children who grow up without a father. I am sure he was not able to be home all the time when the children were little. But his presence was immense when he used his retirement money to attend high school graduations for grandchildren thousands of miles away. He showed up and he rejoiced in their accomplishments and encouraged them in their achievements.
Fatherhood is still a challenging enterprise, especially in a time when new family structures and developments seem to diminish the importance of a male parent. David’s example is one for all to emulate, his family, friends and anyone who wants to be a good parent.
Davelynn’s address of God as “father” also reminds us that David considered God his father as well, one who is strong, who loves his children, who is present, who guides, provides, protects, forgives and promises life to all who call on him.
Allan T. Peterson, PsyD, MDiv
Husband of Shirleen Chau Hoong Peterson (Chun)
