My Dad passed away when I was 14. We were very close so each year it's been difficult.
A couple years ago a sales lady in a store came up to me all bubbly and said something like "this would be perfect for Father's Day ..." I had to stop her and tell her that my Dad was dead, I needed no gift thank you. That changed her tune and maybe it made her think twice about approaching strangers in that way again. I understand that the store probably asked her to do it but you never know a customers personal situation.
The last few years I have honored my Fathers memory by volunteering for a local project called "Dads Make a Difference Day". It celebrated Fathers and their role in their kids's lives. The day is filled with family events, games and music.