Father carries on snowy family tradition

(ABC 6 News) – For one family the first big sticky snow of the year means the chance to carry on a special family tradition.

John Duball is a dedicated father who builds snowmen every year in honor of his daughters who are grown up and out of the house.

“It’s a wonderful time that I had with my daughters. Whenever I’m out here and they’re not here, I just think back on all those times where we were [together,]” Duball said.

On Northern Heights, Dr. Duball can be seen out shoveling or building some of Rochester’s most creative snowmen.

“It’s a blast to play in the snow still.”

This year it’s a snow fisherman. But flashback 20 years, and it all started with his two daughters Amanda and Rachael bringing their dad out into the snow.

“For as young as they were, when they started walking, we were out here trying to do our best to build a little snowman. And it became this wonderful bonding experience that I got to have with my daughters.”

Since then their snow creations have lit up the neighborhood; even in dark times.

During the pandemic, Rachael and Amanda asked their dad to spread messages of hope and care. Something that many feel brings the community together.

Duball says he hopes that as his girls get older and start their own families, they carry on this tradition with their kids.