For me that close 2nd would have to be my wife.
It's good to see that people have maintained enduring relations with their fathers, (I envy that to some degree) I suppose. It's what I would strive for if I had children. I certainly wish sometimes I could celebrate this day (and others) with either of them, (I have a stepfather of 42 years) but it's not in the cards, I wish them all the very best in life, wherever it takes them. I've hoped I might become a father myself one day, but so far, it's not in the cards. My wife can't have children, but then again, she kinda fits this role too sometimes....
But I've cared for thousands of other peoples children over 2 decades of practice. Some I could fit in my palm, at 21-27 weeks of birth.
I'll give you this much. Being a father is much about what you stated, Sacrifice, forgiveness, patience, empathy are important qualities to possess, when becoming a successful dad. Plus, the hard lessons... Like anything, you get back what you put into it. It's caring, nurturing, and learning from your mistakes. Much like growing cannabis....
and equally challenging to master.