Remembering....Ron

Each of us has a unique set of memories when we think of someone. Each of us has our own "piece" of him that we take through life. These few are just some of the memories I keep as treasures of my brother, Ron. It was his death from ALS that prompted me to write. I remember him as the son of a father, who worked hard to raise his children with the values of love, respect, conscience, and devotion. I remember him as the father, who worked hard to provide his own children an education in the values of life. I remember him as a boy, who loved to play with trains, erector sets, and bicycles. I remember him as a man, who loved to work with his hands in repairing motors or could fix the leakiest of faucets. I remember him as an adolescent, who never had a problem in finding friends. I remember him as a man, who like a lone wolf, many times trod his course alone. I remember his love of driving around on Lower Wacker Drive, singing Irish folk songs. I remember him as a man, who was sometimes frustrated by his inability to repair his favorite car. I remember him as a friend, who helped me to learn how to play games as a child. I remember him as a brother, who continued to play the game of life with wit and humor even in dark times. I remember him as a man, who was never too busy to help someone else, whether they be family, friend, or neighbor. I remember him as a man, who asked no help for himself in his most desperate challenge. I remember him as a man of dry humor, misplaced witicisms, and constant exchanges of laughter. I remember him as a brother, who's only claim to fame was caught on film at a First Communion party, and who's face always turned red when someone reminded him of it. I remember him as a man, who courageously faced a battle he knew he could not win. I remember him as a man, who loved God, and may only have found out how deeply when he neared the end of his journey to be with Him. I remember him with love, respect, and gratitude...for letting me remember. Dan Cwiak