I think a lot of his dad's turnaround can be placed on the conversation he'd have had with dear old Mom outside the story. I think, deep down, what he wanted was what he thought was best for Kevin - it's just that, up to now, he didn't exactly have the right idea of what was best.
I also think that it's not quite a full 180 turn for Dad, either - maybe a bit short of that. He's started to make the turn, but as he said, he still needs some time. Either way, I doubt he'll be doing anything like showing up at a PFLAG meeting or something like that.
Glad you liked the story, and thanks for reviewing!