Editor’s note: This story was originally published on June 16, 2024.
A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives.
“Fathers come in assorted sizes, shapes, colors and ages. No two are alike. They may be conservative businessmen, friendly grocers, dexterous mechanics, bronzed farmers, learned lawyers, dedicated doctors, respected educators, creative journalists, jaunty salesmen.
“Yet, they all have something in common — their chief concern is their family.
And whether they are 20-year-olds awkwardly clutching their first diapered bundles, or gray-haired grandpas being cared for in turn by their children, the concern is universal.”
So wrote a Deseret News staff writer in 1964. The sentiments are the same today.
Father’s Day traces its roots as far back as the 1500s, but its American history started with unofficial celebrations in 1908. Father’s Day and Mother’s Day were suggested by Sonora Smart Dodd and Anna Jarvis, respectively. In 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson made Father’s Day an official holiday. Later, President Richard Nixon set its date on the third Sunday in June, per reports.
This year (2026), Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 21.
Here are some archived Deseret News stories about Father’s Day:
“Started with a daughter’s love for dad”
“Fatherhood is a joy almost undeserved”
“Perspective: Zen and the art of fatherhood maintenance””
“How people celebrate fathers around the world”
“Q&A: Brad Wilcox on the state of fatherhood in America — and what can be done to make it better”
“What good dads give to their kids, according to science”
And my favorite Father’s Day story:
“Dad jokes are scientifically shown to benefit children. Here’s Utah’s favorite one”