One of my favorite people in the world turns 70 this week − my dad, the man who quietly has taught me most of what I know about work, faith, family and politics.

Besides my mom, I can't think of a person who's been more influential in my life. Dad is a Scandinavian stoic, whip-smart and a bit reserved, but the older I get, the more I realize how many things my dad has taught me without saying much at all.

In some ways, I think I had an idyllic, if not unusual, Minnesota childhood. A lot of it is due to my dad's constant presence. From my dad, I learned how to shoot a gun, waterski and formulate ideas on politics. But I also learned the importance of family, faith, hard work and fun.

Work hard. Play hard. God first. Family always.

With a graduate degree, my dad could have taken another path. Instead, he ran a remodeling business to be a hands-on dad, changing his work clothes before attending every volleyball game. At 70, he’s still at it.

When I was a kid, after a long day, Dad would often take a quick........

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