Did your feelings toward Effie's father change over the course of the book, and if so, how?

Did your feelings toward Effie’s father change over the course of the book, and if so, how?

In the beginning I found him horrible. I didn’t understand why he was leaving all alone all the time. However at the end with his letter I saw him differently- not necessarily more likable - but I could get my arms around his motivation better.