Did John really consider rip as his son?
I have this doubt because once when asked if Casey was his youngest son he responded saying he’s his only son.
Second time, he said of all his kids he envy’s one, misses one, pity one, and regrets one. All 4 of his real children but didn’t mention rip as the 5th.
After that one letter that Beth brings to rip there was never any other mention of John considering rip as his son.