Father’s Day 2026.

An open letter to the world about my father and inspiration, Howard Wendland.

My father’s upbringing in deep rural Wisconsin farm country met the new, post World War II suburban schools in the Milwaukee suburbs. His father, Merlin, paid for that privilege with 30 months of his life in the Pacific Ocean during the war. The work ethic, Catholic faith, and family values of the Wendland and Pronschinske families survive because my father continues their legacy. I do my best to follow his example with my own children.

My brothers and I were raised in the free-range method of the day. My father traveled the world for as a sales and project management director for Control Data, Siemens, Northern States Power, and Xcel Energy. What I remember most is the presence of my father in each different aspect of our life.

When my dad was gone for work, my mother took care of us. My parents supported each other, providing the safety at home my dad needed to navigate the complexities of selling something like hydroelectric powerplant operating systems to a government agency in Africa, or the USSR. His career success was enabled by this teaming up between my father and his wife, who he continued to trust with his life.

When my dad was home, he spent a lot of his time reading and writing. Eventually he wrote a book called “How to Get Out of the Airport”. His dedication to that effort is my inspiration to write my own books now.

When I needed my dad to just be dad, he was also very present. Instead of just checking a block, my father would take time to work with me on my baseball skills. He’d take me to the park for an hour to practice. He always made time to be present in the ways that would make the greatest impact on our lives.

When I needed my dad to provide structure and discipline, he was present every day. Dad ensured I practiced my piano for my hour every day. He’d read and listen to me practice my piano. It must have made him incredibly happy, because he would always choose to sit in the room while I practiced and he was home.

My dad took me running. He let me ride my bike while he trained for a marathon. He encouraged me to be bold, take every chance to explore the world around me, and live every day in wonder of the world around us.

Pictures:

My dad and I finishing a couple of races together.

My dad in front of a photo he took titled “Frosty Evening.” We had it printed for our fireplace.

My dad and I at the cabin.

My parents.

Love you dad. Thank you for everything I have and everything I am. Thank you for the love and support you continue to provide me and our family.  Happy Father’s Day.