Condolences from across the water.
Sounds like you had a great Dad. You have so many memories with him so he is never really lost to you. You will always have him with you in your head and heart.
My dad walked away when I was four and turned up again when I was 39! I only knew him for a couple of years before he died and as we had no history together, to me, he was just an old man.
I envy your time with such a great Dad.
Best wishes.