Welcome Raggedjim
As far as getting started. A Bodies are bad about rusting the the crossmember, torsion bar mount, front frame rails around the upper a arms so before spending any real time check it out and get a plan.
I understand wanting to get it done for your dad. I tried to get my Dart done before my dad passed away.
He got to drive it when it was just a shell of a body with drivetrain, no hood fenders, trunk lid or top.
He always liked my cars but never had any real cool cars himself. Guess my 70 Duster that I sold him was the coolest car he had. Cragers SS all around, 60's on the back slant 6 with 3 speed.
Hope it is a solid car and you can make him smile when he see's it