Grandma’s has always been a big part of the Ostman family in Duluth. But sisters Sara Socha and Molly Milovich were mostly spectators, cheering on their dad, Paul.

The career firefighter and Navy veteran ran in many of the full and half marathons, starting in 1980.

“We would watch at 32nd Avenue East. And it was easier for him to see us before we’d see him. And he’d come out of nowhere, and scoop us up, a big sweaty guy, and then he was off,” recalled Sara.

After his passing in April, they decided to sign up for the half, even though running is not their thing.

It will be Molly’s first half, and Sara’s second.

A tribute to the man who they miss so much. “Running this marathon will help us through the transition of grief, and honor him,” Molly said.

“We hope this inspires other people to run for their parents or loved ones. The marathon always seems like something unattainable if you’re not a runner. And I think the two of us dancers can do it, with our dad at our back, we hope it inspires other to do it too,” Sara added.

They have special shirts made to run in, that feature Paul’s photos from past marathons. The family called him Johnie, so don’t be surprised to see that part too.