Every father has his own special qualities that make him Dad.

“I’m grateful that my father taught me about God and really exemplified a life of service to others by being involved in the community and church,” Keith explained.

“Dad’s optimism and humor taught me that life is what we make of it,” he added. “He’s a very thankful person, always willing to assist someone in need, and treats each day as a gift. He would often say, ‘If you wake up in the morning and can get out of bed and walk, it’s a good day.'”

His father, David Peachey of Reedsville, is the kindest, most selfless person he knows. He continuously gives of himself to his family and friends with no expectations of anything in return.

Photo courtesy of GEISINGER-LEWISTOWN HOSPITAL
David Peachey (left) inspires his son, David, and his granddaughter, Brooklyn, 2.

David grew up on a dairy farm and still lives there with his wife Ruth, even though they no longer milk cows. David’s role as a father would be considered very traditional. His story is inspiring to say the least.

In May, David and his wife, Ruth, celebrated their 43rd wedding anniversary. They had two sons and three daughters; and eight grandchildren ages 1 to 13.

“I did have a strong father figure caring deeply for the things of God, family and community,” said David of his upbringing.

His father passed away when he was only 14. He also took time for the family trip and took the family to the river on a summer evening.

“As a father I cherish seeing my children walking in truth serving God in the church and the community,” David said. “I am so grateful for others that have impacted their lives, and their workplaces and church. It is also very special to hear grandchildren saying, ‘grandpa’ and seeing the sparkle in their eyes.

“My father would say, ‘It’s not what we do, that’s what God does through his people,'” he added. “And May our heavenly father get the glory because he truly is faithful, in meeting the needs of his children.”

He taught Keith, from Belleville, the finer points of fishing, cooking, hunting and playing ball. Telling jokes that have the whole family laughing (or groaning). More than anything, he taught Keith to give of himself to others.

The themes of family and community run deep for Keith and David Peachey.

Like father, like son, Keith has worked as a nurse manager at Geisinger Lewistown Hospital since 2015, while David is a volunteer chaplain. Both dedicate themselves to fatherhood and servanthood.

Keith said quality time and faith have been the bedrock of fatherhood for the Peachey family. “I enjoy watching Brooklyn grow and change, learning new things and I love experiencing the excitement of the small things through the eyes of a child,” he explained of his 2-year-old daughter, Brooklyn. “Being a father helps me be more present and recognize the importance of family and community.”

David, who volunteered at Geisinger for more than 20 years until 2020, now comes back to the emergency room for certain situations by special request. He has five adult children and eight grandchildren.

Growing up, he had someone to emulate. “I had a strong father figure who cared deeply for God, family and community,” David said. “He took time for family travel, and he was a fisherman, taking our family to the river on a summer evening.”

Now, as a grandfather, David said enjoys spending time with his grandchildren. Inspiring another generation.

In watching his father serve others, Keith said he learned to do the same.

“I’m grateful that my father taught me about God and really exemplified a life of service to others by being involved in the community and church,” Keith said.

“Dad’s optimism and humor taught me that life is what we make of it,” he added. “He’s a very thankful person, always willing to assist someone in need, and treats each day as a gift. He would often say, ‘If you wake up in the morning and can get out of bed and walk, it’s a good day.'”

In turn, David said, “I am so grateful for others that have impacted their lives, and their workplaces and church. As my father would say, ‘It’s not what we do, it’s what God does through his people.'”

The man has the patience of a saint, a heart of gold and the best sense of humor of anyone I’ve ever known. Keith is blessed beyond compare.

Every father has his own special qualities that make him Dad.

In honor of Father’s Day on Sunday, it’s time to pay tribute to all the dads out there who’ve made a lasting impact on their sons’ lives. Here’s to the biological, adoptive and foster fathers.

“This Father’s Day, reach out to your father or someone who’s had a positive impact on you — maybe a high school coach, a close family member or someone else that has contributed to your life,” Keith said. “Tell them how much you appreciate what they have done for you.”

Here’s those who’ve played the part, even without the title. Here’s to all the father figures out there that have helped their sons become all they are.

David didn’t teach by asking. He simply taught by doing. Always.