Dad

My dad passed away in his sleep Friday morning. We're still kind of in shock, particularly my mom, but are doing well. He had not been sick and suspect that he'd over-exerted himself earlier in the day doing yardwork.

My dad and I were very different people but I've always striven to match his core values of honor and truthfulness. You always knew where he stood and where you stood with him - there was very little gray area. I'm really going to miss his stories and making him laugh. There were so many little things that happened yesterday between the police, funeral home, bank, etc that he'd have gotten such a kick out of. I can see that whole 18-hour whirlwind very clearly as one of his after-dinner stories. I suppose in a few years it'll be one of mine.

With the approval of my sisters, I wrote his obituary which I share here:

LTC (Ret) James Anthony “Rik” Rekowski – Savannah – Rik Rekowski of Savannah, Georgia passed away suddenly in the early morning hours of November 18, 2016 at the age of 79. Rik was a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Rik was the son of Josephine and Anthony Rekowski, who preceded him in death. He is survived his wife Catherine, his brother, Norman “Rik” Rekowski of Mesa, Arizona, his daughters Angela and Diana and son Christian, as well as many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Rik was a Vietnam veteran of the US Army and after 23 years of military service became an accountant and small business consultant. He was an active member of St. James Catholic Church and always enjoyed learning new things, sharing his experiences and stories and spending time with family and friends. He has also left his entry to the annual Christmas art contest well-hidden and risks disqualification if we can’t find it.

You'll be very sorely missed, Pop. I love you.