Although he played minor league baseball and won a slew of awards as a high school athlete, John J. Soviero's children considered his greatest victory his success as a father. Mr. Soviero, of Huntington, died Saturday from heart failure at Huntington Hospital at the age of 57, making Father's Day a sad tribute for a man who, relatives said, considered parenting his highest calling.

Mr. Soviero's son, Thomas, remembered that his father quit playing in the minor leagues to raise a family, and was constantly supportive of his children - offering advice and assistance long after they grew up. "He was incredible. He was always there for you," he said, adding that his father was also giving to friends and acquaintances.