This past December, Jax Taylor lost the man that he referred to as his "best friend." And though the SURver has much to celebrate these days, he misses his father every single day. Naturally, he didn't let his dad's birthday pass without celebrating his legacy.

On June 12, Jax posted a heartfelt message to his "angel in the sky." After wishing his father a happy birthday, he went on to share the many ways in which his dad influenced him. "Since you have left you have changed me in so many ways, thank you for being my father. My new goal in life is to be exactly the man you are to your family," he wrote. 

The poignant message went on to address his upcoming wedding, where his father's absence will be keenly felt. "My only wish is that you could see me and Brittany on our wedding day, and meet your grandchildren, but I know you will be with me in spirit and help guide me the rest of my life," he wrote. 

Read the full, touching message in the Instagram post below.