I'm glad you had such a positive role model in your life. Yes, there are often people who father us who aren't actually related. Still, they take time, effort, money, energy, etc to help us become capable adults who can make good choices and treat others well.

A father doesn't need to be blood related - he just needs to be enough of a man to show love , care, and compassion

I think you said it very well!

Also, I'm sorry for your loss. It's difficult to lose someone you love, regardless of whether or not they are related to you by blood.