Happy Father's Day 2025!

Fatherhood takes many forms. For some, it's about being a steady presence. For others, it’s about life lessons, difficult choices, or rewriting the patterns of the past. This Father’s Day, we’re sharing five real stories, submitted by Living DNA customers and staff*. Each one offers a glimpse into the moments, big and small, that shape how we see our dads, and how fatherhood is passed down across generations.

Éva’s Dad: Small Traditions, Lasting Memories

When I was young, my dad looked after us on the weekends, while mum worked. He had his struggles with mental health, and some days were more difficult than others.

What I remember most about those weekends with Dad are the small rituals we shared, like bringing us a fresh loaf of bread, still warm from the bakery, every Saturday, or curling up together during Formula 1 races - which always seemed to fall at naptime! Even now when I hear the sound of racing engines it feels almost like a lullaby.

Those quiet moments, imperfect as they sometimes were, have stayed with me more than any of the rockier times.

Jo’s Dad & Grandad: Different Generations, Shared Convictions

My Grandad was a serious and stoic man, a WWII veteran who believed strongly in duty and public service. My Dad is the opposite in so many ways: unconventional, opinionated, and proudly non-traditional, with his long curly hair and determined refusal throughout his teens in the 70s to ever ever wear socks. Their relationship was very often rocky, but I’ve come to see how much they had in common when I look beneath the surface. Both of them deeply committed to both their values and to the people around them, and both of them - even if they didn’t always show it in the same way.

Anthony’s Dad: “Now You Know”

Our shed roof was leaking. I said we should call someone. Dad looked at me like I’d suggested hiring someone to breathe for us or something.

We spent the whole Saturday fixing it. Took twice as long, probably cost more, it was frustrating and he hit his thumb with a hammer. But when it was done, he just said, “Now you know how to do it next time.” (There never was a next time. The shed never leaked again.)

Alex’s fiancé: Parenting with Purpose

My fiance didn’t grow up with a positive male role model, and stories I’ve heard of his father still take me aback. But now, watching my fiance with our small son, I see something completely extraordinary. He is calm, and gentle, and endlessly, overwhelmingly loving. He is absolutely committed to giving our child the kind of upbringing he didn’t have. It's a quiet transformation, but one that matters more than I could ever put into words.

Fiona’s Dad: Present in Every Way

My dad took on a more traditional 'mothering' role so my mum could follow the career she wanted. My dad ended up getting a school hours, term time only role. He would be there when we got back from school, help us with our homework and made us dinner. It was lovely to have a male role model that was very present in my life.

Want to explore your own family history?

Every family has its own story. Sometimes it’s messy, sometimes it’s beautiful, and more often it’s a healthy heaping of both. This Father’s Day, we celebrate the dads, grandads, and father figures who shape our lives, and the everyday actions, big and small, that leave a lasting legacy.

For a special Father's Day discount, use code Spoilhim10 for an extra 10% off.

Our new Living DNA portal makes it easier than ever to trace your ancestry, discover connections across generations, and learn more about the people who came before you.

Whether you're just starting your journey or you’re returning to uncover new insights about your family history, now is the perfect time to explore your roots.

*Some of our participants have chosen to remain anonymous, so names may have been changed for their privacy. All images are stock photos and do not depict the people in these stories.