Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It’s Publix Super Dads!

Bero

Dad: Cashier Danny Bero, #1330, Deltona, Florida
Submitted by: Cashier Jessica Bero, #1330

My dad loves the simple things in life! Painting a picture, shooting hoops, and he really enjoys making people laugh. Some would say his humor is kind of dry … I’m talking blow the dust off your grandma’s old books kind of dry! But I think he’s hysterical! Some people put on their “Publix Face” only when they clock in. But my dad models the Publix way wherever he is. With the heart of a servant, he’s compassionate and kind to everyone he meets. He never treats anyone as a stranger! I started my own career with Publix in 2012 and have had the privilege of working by my dad’s side for the past four years. I admire him for doing whatever is necessary to support our family, which has included working two jobs! Now, my brother Jake has joined the Publix ranks as a front service clerk. Though the three of us are never scheduled to work at the same time, we enjoy sharing our “customer stories” around the dinner table. I know he loves me unconditionally and I love my dad! He’s the best!


Vargas Acosta

Dad: Cabinet Maker Radamés Vargas Acosta
Submitted by: Atlanta Field Marketing Coordinator Radamés Vargas Cruz

When your friends ask, “Is your dad coming?” you know your dad is pretty awesome! Well this guy is like a non-stop machine: he wakes up before I’m physically able to open my eyes and operate as a normal human being, and goes to work. Then, he comes home and keeps going with all sort of random stuff. He’s always intrigued to learn something new; well, he is intrigued by everything! This man bakes cakes and pastries, plays music as if he was a DJ (yes, with a microphone too) because he thinks he is one, goes and helps a friend or one of his children with whatever they may need, then he cleans some more and finally turns on the TV, but that’s when he finally falls asleep. He is always in a good mood (but when he is not — don’t talk to him), is very organized and is always willing to help. He has worked really hard to be the great father he is today. It has not been easy and it has not always been fun, but with lots (and I mean lots) of work and perseverance he has set a great example for his three children. He has taught us that you don’t need a fancy house, car, clothing, the most modern phone or eat at the nicest place to be happy. All you need is to be you, to be humble, down to earth, smart about your decisions, honest to those around you and to yourself, persevere and never give up. He is the best dad I could have ever have asked for! Papi, te quiero mucho!!!


Gilmore

Dad: Assistant Store Manager Jack Gilmore, #1330, Deltona, Florida
Submitted by: Jackie Gilmore, Orlando, Florida

My dad is the greatest — there isn’t a more simple way to put it. My dad has been working at Publix for a long time and although I have never worked with him, I work at a store where he used to. I have never heard a coworker say anything negative about my dad; they always tell me that working with him instantly made it a good day to be a work. Besides being an awesome Publix associate, my dad is a super awesome at home. He has always been my biggest fan and supporter. I know no matter what my dad will always have my back and will help me with whatever I need. My dad tells the best stories and offers the best advice. My dad is someone I admire and look up to, he is always kind and compassionate, he is funny and honest, and he always shows me how to love the simple things in life. I strive to be like him and make him proud every day!


Gigantino

Dad: Meat Cutter Ray Gigantino, #62, Winter Springs, Florida
Submitted by: Raymond Gigantino

My dad and I go fishing together. We have gone hiking in the state parks where we got to see many animals and snakes. My father and I both love animals of all kinds. We love science and enjoying watching science and history shows on TV. He taught me how to ride my bike. Now we take many bike rides on a trail. He even surprises me by bringing my bike to school to pick me up so we can bike ride home together. I am a scuba ranger, and my dad takes me to all my lessons. One lesson was on a 35 degree day. He didn’t complain when he had to sit in the freezing temperature to watch. I have a lot of fun when I beat him at Monopoly. I played a great April Fool’s Day joke on him and he didn’t get mad. I see how nice my father talks to his customers and I have seen how good he cuts meat for the cases. He is a good person who likes to help people. He takes good care of me, my mom and his mom who lives with us. He takes her wherever she needs to go. My dad also volunteered to help on a class trip. HE IS A GREAT DAD!!


rickner1

Dad: Store Manager Todd Rickner, #854, Cape Coral, Florida
Submitted by: Cashier Emily Rickner, #701, North Fort Myers, Florida

My dad is a Publix store manager and has worked for Publix for 35 years. He’s been such a role model for me I would love to follow in his footsteps and become a great parent like he has been for my brother and me. He has worked hard to provide a good life for us. I can never thank him enough for that. I am forever grateful for him and everything he has done for me. I honestly don’t know where I would be today without him. My father creates amazing relationships with people — especially those he works with. They have such great things to say about him. I wanted to write as a thank you for always being there and being such an amazing dad.


Early

Dad: Meat Manager Richard Early, #574, Huntsville, Alabama
Submitted by: Deli Technical Specialist Rachel Santos

My dad has been a loyal Publix associate for almost 40 years and has definitely done his part in making Publix great. He has a genuine passion for people and takes care of his associates as if they were family. He has hired, trained and retained countless associates throughout the years and takes a vested interest in ensuring the success of Publix continues when he retires. He is a passionate person who truly has a love for not only his job but also his family. He can always be counted on for quality work and has mentored many others to do the same. Somehow, and I can honestly say I don’t know how, now that I am older and realize all the responsibilities of being an adult and the struggle of balance between work and home, he managed to balance the two perfectly. He very rarely missed a family dinner and coached each one of my two other siblings and I in sports activities. He loves his children and grandchildren unconditionally and can always be counted on for advice and support. He often gives back to the community and has supported countless sports organizations. Looking back, I remember having my brother’s entire football team sleeping at our house before game day because many children’s parents didn’t have transportation, and my dad wanted to keep the kids involved and off the streets. Growing up, when I needed help with homework, I remember my dad sitting at the dinner table with me going over problem after problem until I understood. He has always been a role model in my life who has shown me the value in a dollar and a great work ethic. My dad taught me about Publix and showed me how to turn the grocery industry into a flourishing career. He has shown my family and I nothing but unconditional love and has created a legacy in his name. He has welcomed every new idea and supported every choice I have made in my life. He takes his role as a father back into his career and has helped many people establish the same success with Publix. I would love nothing more than my dad to be honored for not only being an amazing dad but also a dedicated Publix associate. He is a true inspiration to me, and I hope I can continue to make him proud, because I know I am proud to be his daughter.


Epperson

Dad: Produce Category Manager Curt Epperson
Submitted by: Cashier Caitlyn Epperson, #332, Orlando, Florida

Although I have only been working at Publix for four and a half years, it feels like I’ve been ingrained in its culture my whole life. I can credit that feeling to my father, as he has been an associate for three decades. Most people in the office know him for his never-ending humor and positive attitude, but his kindness and humanity doesn’t end when the workday does. My dad exudes the type of qualities that cannot be trained or taught; his compassion for people and bright personality are just a part of who he is. All of this makes him a remarkable person and a pleasure to get to know. Most importantly, it makes me proud to call him my dad. My sister and I are lucky to be raised by a man who’s been a perfect example for how to take on the world. My dad is the reason why I love working for Publix, and I know he’s making this company a better place by being a part of it.


Dad: Seafood Specialist Kenneth Goddu, #1335, Largo, Florida
Submitted by: Customer Service Staff Jessica Goddu, #374, Clearwater, Florida; Meat Clerk Krystal Goddu, #1160, Clearwater, Florida

My sister and I would like to honor our dad for Father’s Day. He has been a role model employee for Publix for 15 years, but that is not the only thing that makes him special. My mom and dad got together when my sister and I were only 3 and 1 year old. My dad adopted us and raised us, even though he didn’t have to because he already had two daughters of his own. Thanks to him, we have grown up to be strong and independent women. We both started working for Publix as teenagers. Today, we’re working to move up in the company. We don’t usually share that we were adopted because, to us, he is our one and only father. His daughters are our sisters, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. He is a great dad and a wonderful grandfather. Thank you, Dad! Happy Father’s Day!


thompson

Dad: Assistant Produce Manager Nicholas Thompson, #1013, Port Charlotte Florida
Submitted by: Finley Thompson (with help from mom)

My daddy is my teacher, and he loves to teach me something new every day. Some days, he teaches me responsibility by going to work early after working a long shift the night before. Other days, he teaches me teamwork by motivating his Publix Family to make their day just a little bit better. But, every day, he teaches me love. He shows this to me by working hard for our family and doing it with pride. He shows me by coming home, tired but always ready for me. My daddy shows both his Publix family and our family how much he loves me!


harris

Dad: Produce Manager Don Harris, #1058, Indian Harbour Beach, Florida
Submitted by: Assistant Store Manager Jonathan Harris, #1214, Satellite Beach, Florida

In this picture, my dad was celebrating his 45th anniversary with Publix. He is planning to retire this year after many years of dedication to our wonderful company. Not only has he been a wonderful and loving father, but he has been my Mr. George as well as for so many others he has touched though the years. He has always taught me to make the right decision in life, even though it may not be the most popular. I would not be where I am in life or with Publix without following his guidance.

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