GREENWICH, Conn. Louis Lucifora Sr. and his children sat at a picnic table under an umbrella beside the Mianus River at Greenwich Adult Day Care, munching on hamburgers and pasta salad at the River Houses annual Fathers Day barbecue. Lucifora was wearing a white baseball cap that said, Worlds Greatest Dad.
We always come. I mean, how could you not, you know? said Louis Jr., who said he got a day off from work as a grocery clerk at the Darien Stop & Shop. His sister came, too. One of us will always be here, said Cindy, who works in a clerical office and was headed back after she visited with her dad.
Peg Drenckhahn, director of admissions at the River House, said, We like to involve the families in their care and make them feel like they belong, adding the River House has an open-door policy.
The River House is fantastic for my dad, said Cindy, whose father has Alzheimers disease. All the aides are great, and he has his best friend here. He doesnt have any time in his mind for distraction.
Her brother agreed. I just wish it was seven days a week, said Louis Jr. The worst day for him is Sunday, because he has a routine when hes here.
Drenckhahn said the theme for Fathers Day at the River House is always red, white and blue because the date is close to July 4 and many of the dads are veterans. Nearly 25 guests attended the barbecue, including First Selectman Peter Tesei, who joined the families for lunch.
But not all the members of Luciforas family could be at the barbecue. Louis Jr. said his son, Louis III, just graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in zoology and was looking forward to seeing his grandfather. Louies your pride and joy right pop? Louis Jr. said to Louis Sr., who responded, Oh yeah.
Do you have any Fathers Day stories to share? Comment below or email ahelhoski@thedailygreenwich.com.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Greenwich and receive free news updates.