Dads are always with us in a whiff of Old Spice

In response to Adam Tschorn’s “Time in a Classic Bottle” in the June 10 Image section, readers wrote in to share how Old Spice — the de facto scent of American dadness — evokes memories of their fathers. Here are a few of those letters.

My earliest memory of my dad was his scratchy beard and the smell of Old Spice when he kissed me more than 60 years ago.

When my dad passed away three years ago, my stepmother gave me his last bottle of Old Spice. I took it to the funeral and mentioned in my eulogy how much I love that smell. And afterward, I splashed some on anyone who wanted to share the memory and the scent.

My sense of smell is not what it used to be these days, but for some reason, that scent still comes through as strong as ever.

I’m sure you will be hearing from other people who have similar recollections. So thanks for making us feel like we’re all in the same “boat,” so to speak. Michael Lynn Valley Glen

I’d know that buoy bottle and its octagon top anywhere. And yes, there were a couple of years of soap-on-a-rope gift sets when my brother and I would pay for them ourselves at the neighborhood Thrifty drugstore.

This will also be the fourth Father’s Day without my dad, and it was a great occasion to remember him and godfather George across the street, by the bottle. Blessings to your dad, Douglas, and all the fathers, here and not. Lori Ross Mission Viejo

Old Spice is inextricably wound around my younger adulthood. I had it all — the shaving mug, shaving brush, deodorant and, of course, the cologne. Today, only the stick deodorant (but never the antiperspirant) remains in the lineup, specifically for travel. Barry Aronoff Pasadena

Thank you for your piece about Old Spice and your dad’s bottle. My dad died in 2014 as well, and I too am the keeper of this treasure.

I haven’t opened it since his death because I fear the memories and sadness that may follow.

But maybe today I will. Jill Witzman Dolan North Hollywood

As a 73-year-old woman, I vividly remember when I was dating a boyfriend who smelled just like my dad. I never said anything to the boyfriend; instead, I bought dear old Dad a different aftershave for Father’s Day.

He was very gracious but asked me if I wouldn’t mind if he returned it and got Old Spice. Of course, what could I say except, “Sure, I love Old Spice.” Linda Dobson Seal Beach

I too am the owner of a half-full bottle of Old Spice given to me by my dad. I have such a strong association of Old Spice and Dad that we bought two extra bottles and had all male (and female) fellow mourners at his funeral slap some on. It was a nice reminder of Dad almost being there. Tom Schulte Playa Vista