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2011 Funerals

 

William H Miller, 1937-2011

Born:  February 12, 1937     Died:  June 20, 2011    Funeral:  June 23, 2011
Gospel:  John 14:1-6

 

Homily:

            Jesus told us that He would go to prepare a place for people of faith.  We heard this in today’s Gospel.

          As I extend condolences on behalf of all of the members of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church to MARLENE, MARK, LEZLIE, BILL, BOB, MENA, MINDY, and BRANDON, we trust that the Lord has prepared a place for Bill.

          You give thanks for Bill’s life. 

          Marlene knew Bill since she was twelve years old.  She and Bill became engaged when she was sixteen and shared the gift of marriage since exchanging their wedding vows here in this church in the presence of Father Nick Arioli on June 14, 1958.

          You give thanks for how he earned his living for twenty-five years at Kroger Supermarket in Warren, for a decade at GATX Fabricating Plant in Masury, and as a part time custodian in Howland Schools before retiring in 1999.

          Bill truly enjoyed polka music.  He played the button box accordion for the Summit Street Jammers.

          He really enjoyed hunting and fishing.

          During recent years, Bill and Marlene enjoyed traveling and going to flea markets.

          You remember him as one who dearly loved his family and gave so much of his time and energy to his loved ones. 

          The Trumbull County American Legion Honor Guard will honor Bill at the cemetery for his service in to the United States Navy.

          Bill will always have a special place in your hearts.

          I know that it was very meaningful for him to pray together and be given the Anointing of the Sick just ten days before the Lord called him home.   We believe that Bill put His faith in the Lord.  We also believe that the Lord has led him through the shadow of death and promises everlasting peace to those who trust in Him.

          Today, we place our faith in this Jesus who is the way, the truth and the life.

          We trust that Jesus will lead us through the way of sadness and give us assurance that Bill’s suffering have ended and that he is at peace.

          We trust in the truth that Jesus is able to do what none of us can do – Jesus gives the fullness of life.  Christ has died for us and rose to new life.  He promises a share in His resurrection.

          May the Lord be with us every moment of every day, and fill us with hope and love that never ends, for most certainly we depend on Jesus as our way, truth, and life.

Mary Roberts, 1918-2011

Born: August 20, 1918 Died: June 13, 2011
Funeral: June 16, 2011
Gospel: John 6:1-13

 

Homily:

 

            A multitude of people were fed.  Such was the story of the Gospel.  And such was the story of Mary’s life.  She fed those who knew her in a multitude of ways.

            We extend the sympathy of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Family to everyone close to Mary.  She was baptized at this parish on October 20, 1918 by Father Santoro.   She was confirmed here by Bishop Schrembs on June 22, 1928.  Mary and Luigi Antonio Roberts exchanged their marriage vows here in the presence of Father Saraceno on October 29, 1938.

            Pondering those events of long ago reminds us that this church was such an important place in Mary’s life.  As the years passed, she often sat in the very same place, third row from the front in the middle.  This church is where so many happy occasions during Mary’s life were celebrated.  This is also where she mourned the loss of so many relatives and friends close to her who completed life’s journey before her through the years.

            Today, even as her passing brings its share of sadness, we know it is so important to give thanks for the many ways she nourished our lives.  For Mary, providing food was a way to express love.  You’ll remember how she constantly cooked.  So many meals were shared at her house.  You’ll fondly recall the Easter Bread she baked for so many people.  It’s easy to imagine the delicious Sausage pizza she prepared.  There were also those desserts known as grasshoppers.  They included the vanilla ice cream, the crème d’mint, and…tell me…what else was in the blender that made it so delicious?

            You think about the countless peppers she canned.   You even remember how absolutely nothing went to waste, because she even saved the cartilage from the chicken breasts.  Just like in the Gospel:  Jesus told the disciples to gather up the fragments so that nothing would be wasted.

            God blessed you with wonderful memories of her earning the nickname “Kool Aid Mary” for the generous way she made sure children received refreshments.  You also have fond memories of her providing so very much gum, candy, and pop for anyone who came to her house. 

            Whenever you hear Italian music or the sounds of old Lawrence Welk re-runs, you’ll think of Mary.  Say a prayer of thanks to God for how she enriched your lives.

           
Today is a day when we have gathered at the table of the Lord to be fed by His presence.  Just as Jesus provided food for the multitude and Mary fed so many loved ones in so many ways, the story of God’s love lives on.  Jesus gave His life for us and told us to share a Sacred Meal in remembrance of Him. 

            Mary constantly devoted her life to those she loved.  She lit candles for you every time you traveled, went hunting, participated in a sporting event, faced a big challenge, were sick, or no matter what the occasion….yes, she lit candles to assure you that she remembered you.

            This morning, we see the tall candle that has been lit beside Mary’s casket.  It was one more way Jesus calls us to remember Him, and one more way we are called to remember Mary’s love.  The candle stands for the Light of Christ.  Jesus told us that He is the Light of the World who guides us where we need to go.  The flame reminds us of the light that warms our hearts and shows us the way.   Mary’s many expressions of love have warmed your hearts and show you the way to live.  Her love was truly a way the Lord revealed His love to you.

            As difficult as it is to say goodbye to one who has lived more than 92 years, we entrust Mary to this Light and love of the Lord. 

            We believe that our memories of her will continue to nourish us all our days.

            How you’d love to hear her say one more time, “Here is a dollar!  Now walk to Marty’s Market and get some treats.”

            The sad reality is that those days are long gone by, and only the wistful and wishful memories of those days remain.

            Somehow, some way, Mary would whisper in our hearts right now if she could.  She’d tell us that all the dollars, all the coins, all the pizzas, all the candy, all the gum, all the grasshoppers, and all the lit candles were expressions of love much deeper than the treats and gestures themselves.

            Just as Jesus told the disciples to feed the crowd themselves, Mary would tell us that now it is up to us to feed and refresh each other with expressions of love that last a lifetime.

            All that energy she had scrubbing and washing and giving and caring was a labor of love, just as the actions of Jesus taking and thanking and giving the loaves were actions filled with love, actions charged with the encouragement to us to follow His example.

            Mary's prayer would be that not one single bit of the love she showed be wasted; may the memories of this bountiful love inspire us to be so generous us in all that we do.

 

Ada DeMare, 1918-2011

Born: November 16, 1918 Died: June 11, 2011
Funeral: June 15, 2011
Gospel:  John 15:9-12

 

Homily:

 

            All of you closest to Ada have the prayerful support of the people of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.  I join them in expressing my condolences to you.  Ada was a member of our parish for a long time.  You have our sympathy and support.

          So many images of the things Ada enjoyed fill your minds.

          You think about her as a young mother moving to this country from Italy in the 1940’s.  How important it must have been for Ada to rely on her faith to enable her to embark on that journey!  How important it is for us this day to rely on our faith to help guide Ada’s journey from this life to the life hereafter.

          When Jesus ate with His closest friends the night before He gave His life for us, He encouraged them to live on in His love.  We heard this message proclaimed in the Gospel Ada’s children and I chose for this morning’s Mass of Christian Burial.

          Your memories will lead you to live on in Ada’s love, a love that reflected the love of Jesus, a love that has now led Ada to be invited to accept the fullness of joy.

 You will think of her as a loving mother and grandmother. 

 

You will fondly remember the many meals she cooked.  You’ll think of the tomato sauce, the pizza,   the way she taught those closest to her to cook, and all of the love that was the most important ingredient in every way she nourished you.

 

You’ll remember how she loved bowling, ceramics, painting pictures, crocheting, and playing BINGO.

Many of you will remember the Afghans and slippers she lovingly made for you.

 

Your hearts will be touched when you think of the gorgeous baby dolls she made, especially how she sent one to Vanna White from Wheel of Fortune and how Ada so enjoyed receiving a reply and autographed picture from Vanna.

 

You’ll thank God for the many ways Ada put the teachings of Jesus into practice. 

She took care of her ailing aunt in Rome before coming to this country. 

 

She shared her love with young dance students who came to know her as “Grandma.”

 

You’ll remember this very special woman in your lives who was not quite five feet tall but touched your lives in such enormous ways.

 

Our faith pleads with us to live on in the love of Jesus, and to give thanks for the many ways this love was shared by means of Ada’s life.

 

Our connection with people of every time and place leads us to pray not only for us gathered here today, but also for all other relatives living far away from here that could not join us in person but are with us in spirit.

 

It has been such a long time since Ada was with her beloved husband Philip.  She met and married him in Italy before coming to this country.  He passed from this life more than thirty-nine and a half years ago.  Now our faith tells us that they are reunited in God’s care along with so many other relatives and friends who passed before Ada was called to be with the Lord on Saturday afternoon.

May the Lord strengthen us during this time of need and assure us that not even death can sever the bonds of love.

 

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Audrey Kristoff, 1923-2011

Funeral for Audrey Kristoff
Born:  November 26, 1923   Died:  June 6, 2011
Funeral: June 8, 2011

Readings:  Wisdom 3:1-9    Psalm 23   Revelation 14:13   John 14:1-6

 

Homily:

            All of you are in my prayers and in the prayers of the people of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish.   We know that you have been experiencing some difficult times and assure you of our condolences and support.

          One of Audrey’s wishes was that the 23rd Psalm be proclaimed at her funeral.  Several minutes ago, we heard this beautiful passage from the Scriptures.  We are reminded that the Lord is our Shepherd.  He guides us where we need to go.  We place our trust in Him, for He will lead people of faith through the shadow of death to His everlasting banquet.

So many memories of Audrey have been on your minds these recent days.

          You remember how proud she was of her Scottish heritage.

          You recall how she and Emil shared the joys and challenges of marriage since July 22, 1945, living on North Bentley Avenue since the 1950’s, being a part of this Niles community for such a long time.

          You remember how effectively she ran the household, lovingly prepared meals, worked diligently as the secretary to the personnel manager at Trumbull Memorial Hospital for thirty five years prior to her retirement in 1989, and made her family a priority in her life. 

          Audrey was the one who kept track of the family records and could tell you so much about her relatives.

          We pray for the grace to remember happier and healthier times, for we know that these recent years of declining health have been so difficult for her and those close to her.

          We remember how important Audrey’s faith was to her.

          She deeply appreciated every opportunity to pray, be visited by people from the church, and share in the Eucharist.

          May the Lord who has brought an end to Audrey’s suffering welcome her to His care and console everyone whose lives she touched in so many ways –

               Emil,    Rick,   Janet, Kevin, Erin,  Duane, Ryan, Avery, and Reid.

May our hearts know that Jesus has prepared a place for Audrey, and our souls be refreshed by the consolation the Lord brings.

 

Raymond Leclerc, 1930-2011

Funeral for Raymond Leclerc
Born:  February 8, 1930   Died:  June 4, 2011   Age:  81
Funeral:  June 8, 2011
Gospel:  Matthew 7:24-25

 

Homily: 

          All of the members of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church extend our condolences to Raymond’s family members.  We know that recent times associated with Raymond’s illness and this present time of mourning his death are difficult times and we assure you of our prayers and support.  We appreciate how he served this parish as an usher, and his many expressions of loyalty to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church.

          Those of you closest to Raymond are mindful of how he touched your lives as a great teacher, father, father-in-law, relative, and friend. 

          Most of all, Lella will cherish the memories of her husband with whom she shared the promises of marriage since July 5, 1952.  Lella appreciated her relationship with Raymond so very deeply, cherishing him as her very best friend and her sturdy rock of support.

All of you treasure the many ways Raymond blessed your lives as a fine listener, one in whom you could confide and you could be sure that he would give you sound advice.  You knew him as one who lovingly taught you so many things.

With all of these things in mind, we chose the Gospel story from the Book of Matthew that was proclaimed a few moments ago.  Jesus taught His followers to listen carefully to His words and to act on them.  He told us that if we listen carefully to His words and put them into practice, we will be like a wise man who built his house on solid rock.  The many storms of life will come, yet the house will not collapse because it had been set so very solidly.

Many will be the times in the future when Raymond’s teachings, his sound words of advice, his example to you concerning promotion of family values and a life built on faith will come to mind. 

You will think of Raymond’s life and be confident that he took to heart the teaching of the Gospel.
And you will find that the Lord will continue to console, guide, and sustain you as you continue life’s journey. 

May Jesus in His great love calm your fears and enable you to trust that He has welcomed Raymond to His everlasting care.

May you know that God has raised Raymond up, bearing him on eagle’s wings and delivering him from all of the difficult challenges associated with his final illness that he faced.

This same Lord who rose from the dead to bring new life to His departed faithful people will be with you as you face this challenge of saying goodbye in one sense to Raymond, and in each and every challenge in times to come.

         

 

Julia DeFiore, 1918-2011

Born: May 30, 1918 Died: May 27, 2011 Aged: 92
Funeral: May 31, 2011
Gospel: Matthew 11:28

 

Homily:

 

            All of us belonging to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church extend our condolences to Julia’s family members.  You are in our thoughts & prayers.

            Julia spent a lifetime here in Niles.  We entrust her to God’s care as we have gathered here in a place so very important to her.

            Julia was baptized at this parish by Father Nicola Santoro on May 7, 1922. 

            This church is where she was confirmed when Bishop Joseph Schrembs visited our parish on May 8, 1931.

            Julia prayed here during many happy occasions. She also mourned the death of so many people who were close to her when their funerals were celebrated here in this church.

            Having lived ninety-two years, a multitude of experiences were the fabric of Julia’s  life, so many of them having to do with her parish, family members, Niles neighbors, and friends.

            Those closest to Julia remember the dedication she demonstrated as an inspector at Packard Electric for forty years before her retirement approximately thirty-five years ago.

            We also remember how she liked to crochet and enjoyed cooking.

            We have listened to the words of Jesus in the Gospel chosen for Julia’s Mass of Christian Burial.  The Lord invites all who are weary to come to Him.  He promises rest for His faithful people.

            All of us know that Julia’s final months were not easy.  She experienced being hospitalized and having to go to Autumn Hills Care Center where the Lord called her to Himself Friday evening.

            We believe that Julia has answered the call to come to Him, where we believe that  a multitude of family members and friends wish greet her and welcome Julia to a place where there is no more suffering, frustration, or pain. 

            May the Lord be with us during this time of need and always.  May He welcome Julia to His care and guide us in the ways of peace.

 

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Sandra E Nicastro

Born: October 22, 1937 Died: May 14, 2011
Funeral Saturday, May 21, 9:30am Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Scriptures: Isaiah 25:6-9 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 Matthew 11:28-30

 

Homily:

            We welcome the Reverend Doctor Bernard Oakes who has joined us in expressing condolences to Sandra’s family members and to everyone close to her.
Know that you are in our prayers

          Later in this service, Dr. Oakes will share some words of remembrance.

          At this time, we ponder the Scriptures chosen for today.  The Word of God brings us consolation as no other words can.

          The Prophet Isaiah, in our First Reading, proclaimed how God prepares a glorious feast, a sumptuous banquet. You fondly recall how Sandra liked to eat.  For her, sharing mealtimes with its delicious food and edifying conversation was such an important part of family life.  Although her place at your table is vacant, our faith leads us to trust that God has invited her to share an everlasting feast at His table in heaven. 

          Saint Paul reminds us in our Second Reading about the everlasting quality of the gifts of faith, hope, and love.

           Sandra touched your lives through her faith in God, expressed for many years at First Christian Church here in Niles and more recently as a member of St. Alphonsus Liguori Church in Carmel, Indiana. 

          We gather to lift each other with the sure and certain hope that Sandra will rise again just as Jesus Christ was raised from the dead to new life. 

          This is a day when our prayers are joined to the prayers of all the great witnesses to the faith who have gone before us.  In particular, we remember Sandra’s mother Martha.  There is such a blessedness in the connections we have with people of faith of all times and places.  Just this past Tuesday, Brittany chose the Confirmation name Martha, so we trust that St. Martha and all the saints welcome Sandra to a place of refreshment, light, and peace where there is no more suffering.

          Love is the greatest gift of all.  You will remember Sandra’s love as a mother and grandmother.  Your lives will forever be touched by her love for family, her esteem for animals, and for the ways she was always present for the activities of Amanda and Brittany.  You’ll fondly recall how people nicknamed her “Castro” and you will know in your hearts that not even death eliminates the bonds of love we form in this life.  Love lasts forever.

We heard Jesus issue an invitation in the Gospel.  He invites all who are weary to come to Him.  Sandra faced such intense suffering during her more than four and a half decades of struggling from the complications of rheumatoid arthritis.  Now we believe that she answers the final call to come to the Lord where His care embraces her even as His care reaches out to all of us who mourn.

          Sandra used to enjoy the words of the Irish Blessing.  Now we make this our prayer for her:

Sandra, may the road rise to meet you.  May the wind be always at your back.  May the sun shine warm upon your face, the rains soft upon your fields.  And until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of His hand.

 

 

Adeline L Frient, 1918-2011

 

Funeral Homily for Adeline Frient
Born:  February 24, 1918   Died:  May 6, 2011   Age: 93
Funeral:  May 11, 2011
Scriptures:  1 John 3:1-2 * 2 Timothy 4:6-8 * John 17:1-4

 

Homily

 

“What can you do?”    These are words Mom used so often.  She used to playfully imitate a lady who would purchase vegetables from Mom’s parents when Mom was growing up on the farm in Suffield. It’s probably been close to 80 years since Mom actually heard that lady named Mrs. Olsen lamenting the things that were happening in her life, resigning herself to the realities that surrounded her, wringing her hands and saying, “What can you do?”

 

Now that Mom has been called home to the Lord after 93 years of living, we prayerfully find ourselves echoing a form of the same question:  “What can we do?”

 

What should we do first?  We give thanks to Bishop Murry and to all of my brother priests for the many expressions of support.  We are very grateful to them and to everyone who has been so very supportive in so many ways.

What can all of us do?   We can take a few moments to give thanks for Adeline Frient’s life.  Although Mom was a private person in many ways, she certainly touched many lives in a multitude of dimensions.

 

Mom would never want anyone to eulogize her.  That wasn’t Mom’s style.

 

But I believe it would please her if we were to glorify God for Mom’s amazing energy.  It lasted a long time!  When Mom was about to be released from the hospital the final time before things really took a turn for the worse, she told the social worker:  “Honey, I need to go home.  There is plenty of work for me to do there.” 

 

There is actually a spiritual lesson in the fact that Mom could not understand why she was so tired.  Maybe the comedian Bill Cosby was right when he described the difference between how dads sleep and how moms sleep.  Dads?  They sleep like this: (Loud snore.)  Moms?  They sleep like this: (Eyes wide open, shifting about nervously, ears listening for a pin drop miles away.)

 

That was Mom.  What is the spiritual lesson? Mom worked even in her sleep. It was the work of God, though.  She was praying that my brothers were not getting into too much FOOLISHNESS.  Not to mention, of course, how much Mom prayed that I was avoiding FOOLISHNESS, too.

 

Again, how grateful my family members and I are for the care and concern shown by so many people for my mother.  Some people in their great kindness have told us they did not realize Mom had been sick.  That’s because we honored Mom’s typically humble wish that not too many people should pay excessive attention to her. 

 

I believe Mom wanted people to remember how very sharp her mind was so for so long!  How many people could tell you the wedding anniversary of her step-father’s infamous third cousin’s wife’s half-brother in law?  Up until recently, it seemed like Mom could.  It was one of the many ways God’s care for people was expressed through Mom’s attention to other people’s lives.

What can we do?   We give thanks for the many ways Mom fed us.  She nourished our lives through so many expressions of God’s goodness.  Just the other day, as the days leading to this day were down to a precious few, some of Mom’s dear relatives were reminiscing about the delicious pies she used to bake.

 Although Mom’s aprons no longer adorn her, memories of God’s generosity expressed through her sharing will continue to dress our lives and nourish our souls.

 

What can we do?   Suppose we hear an expression of hilarious humor.  Imagine that we listen to an entertaining story. Maybe we search for the title to a beautiful song.  In all these, we can give thanks to the Lord for the many ways Mom brightened our lives through simple joys.
Sweet Adeline’s charm and that radiant smile could warm the coldest of days and nights. We can pray for the grace to remember that charm often.

 

What can we do?   Most of all, we can be sure that Mom ran this race we call life so very well; Mom fought the good fight of faith the very best she could.

 

The Scriptures tell us that God bestows great love in enabling us to be called children of God.  And that is what we are – children of God!  God’s Word tells us that we can only imagine what we shall become.

 

Adeline Lucille became a child of God way back in 1918, while the First World War still troubled our planet. She was presented for baptism at St. Joseph Church in the Randolph-Suffield area. 

 

Many times over, Mom reaffirmed her faith at St. Joe’s and then for so many more years attentively being formed by God’s Word and participating in the Sacraments right here in Immaculate Conception Church.  Baptism joins our lives to the life of Jesus Christ.  If you really knew Adeline, your heart will assure you that she never lost sight of the fact that her connection with the Lord was of utmost importance. 

 

One of the many beautiful pictures of my mother is the one taken of her as a little girl on her First Communion Day.  She is featured holding a candle.

 

 Now we see the tall candle near her casket, and we are ever so convinced that the Light of Christ led her through so many joys and through so many difficult times throughout the course of nearly nine and one third decades of living.

 

I’m very certain that if Mom could tell us what we should do,   she’d tell us not to lose sight of the Light of Christ, THE Light of THE Loving Lord who suffered, died, and rose from the dead to dispel the darkness of sin and death.

Adeline’s dying brings profound grief to our hearts.  Deep reflection reveals why. It is because her love for us was so strong.  We also grieve because in our love for Mom, we wish we could have spared her from death.

But remember Mom’s many beautiful rational moments throughout the years.  What did she tell us? She had so many ways of bringing us back to reality. 

 

She’d tell us a body can only take so much.  

 

She’d reluctantly admit that she could no longer do the things she could do before.

 

Changes are never easy.  Imagine the changes Mom witnessed in 93 years of living!   Mom liked some changes.  She had a hilarious way of making fun of some other changes.

 

I’ll always remember how she used to ridicule computers.  That is, until she wanted me to look up for her something about one of the relatives.

 

Today, we come together with the full knowledge that God assures people of faith that life is changed, not ended.

 

 When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death, the loving power of God makes it possible for us to gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven. 

 

Mom would no longer want us to pray that she’d get well; she’d want us to pray that she is with the Lord. 

 

She’s want us to know that even as real as our grief is, it should not be a grief that is void of hope.

So what do we do?  

 

We trust that God welcomes Adeline to a place of rest.  We pray that she may be led ever so lovingly where there is no more suffering, no more sadness, no more pain, and no more frustration.

 

Would all of you permit me, please, a final word to my Mom if I may? Mom, you may rest now.  Finally there is no more work for you to do.  So please, relax, close your eyes, let Saint Joseph welcome you – you’ll recognize him well -- and enjoy the music!

 

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William A Wolfe, 1932-2011

 

Born: November 25, 1932 Died: April 26, 2011
Funeral: April 29, 2011
Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30

 

Homily:

 

            Bill was the kind of man who did not want anyone to say much about him at his funeral.

          Knowing that Bill loved the Lord, I am sure he would want us to say something that would bring others closer to God.

          As all of us bring our words of consolation to Rita, Billy, Tony, and everyone closest to Bill, we realize that the Lord has issued an invitation to Bill and an invitation to all of us. We heard this invitation in today’s Gospel.  Jesus said:  “Come to me, and I will give you rest.”

          We know that Bill faced much suffering, and we believe that on Tuesday morning, the Lord said “Come to me” when Bill breathed his last.

          We also believe that Bill answered this call to come to Jesus many times before Tuesday morning.  Bill spent many hours in prayer.   How many times during his more than seventy-eight years of living he prayed here in this church and at home.  This church is where he was baptized by Fr. Joseph Saraceno on January 7, 1933.  Bill shared in First Communion here from Father Saraceno on May 12, 1940.  Exactly one week later, he and his classmates shared in the Sacrament of Confirmation when Bishop James McFadden visited this parish.

          Yes, many were the times Bill answered the call of Jesus to come to the Lord.  And today, as we commend Bill to God’s everlasting care, we answer the call of the Christ to come to the Lord who shows us compassion, brings us comfort, and sustains us in our sorrows.

          We place our trust in the same Lord in whom Bill trusted, believing that Jesus was raised from the dead, grateful that Christ seeks to fill Bill and all of us with new life and the fullness of hope.  May the love of the Lord sustain us every time we remember Bill.

          May our hearts know that God prepares a place for people of faith, and Bill has been called to dwell in that place forever.

 

Mary Jacola, 1920-2011

 

William E Fisher Jr, 1920-2011

Born:  July 6 1921   Died:  April 22, 2011   Age:  89
Funeral:  April 27, 2011
Gospel:  John   19:25-30

 

Homily:

 

            All of us here at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church extend our sympathy to “Lil”, Bill’s children, siblings, grandchildren, in-laws, members of the extended family, and everyone closest to him.  Know that you are in our prayers.

          You gather this afternoon remembering the many ways Bill touched your lives.  You knew him as a wonderful family member.  You fondly recall the many things that brought Bill enjoyment in life, including his dog Missy, lottery tickets, crossword puzzles, playing golf, conversing on the telephone, and cheering for the Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Indians. 

          You will remember stories about Bill working hard with his father’s landscaping firm.  His talents in landscaping earned him and “Lil” the Neighborhood Pride Award in the year 2000 for the decorative plants that adorned his house and well-tended lawn along with the improvements made on their house. 

You will also fondly recall stories about how Bill went on to work at the Republic Steel Company as an administrative assistant to the superintendent before his retirement three decades ago, and the many stories associated with his work as head of security at the Eastwood Mall in Niles and his employment at the Cafaro offices in Youngstown.    

          Our nation is grateful for Bill’s service as a veteran in the United States Army during World War II as a sergeant tank commander.  Special tribute for Bill’s military service will be presented after this Mass.

          We have gathered here not only to give thanks for Bill’s life and to commend him to God’s everlasting care, but also to ponder the meaning of Bill’s passing in the light of our faith.

         
Bill was called home to be with the Lord on Good Friday afternoon.  When I spoke with Candy on the telephone shortly after we made funeral arrangements, she mentioned how very special this is.  Bill died on the day we remember Christ’s saving love for us.  Jesus stopped at nothing to show how much God wants to save us from everlasting death.  We commend Bill to God’s everlasting care during this Easter week, a time when we are especially grateful for the new hope and new life God gives to us because of this perfect obedience and loving sacrifice of the Lord who promises to raise us up, too.

            You’ll fondly remember referring to Bill as “Cowboy” for the way he persevered in his suffering.  As time goes on, you’ll also remember the fact that Bill was united with Jesus in His suffering and death.  As the Gospel story from John told us a few moments ago, Jesus delivered over His spirit after saying “It is finished.”  The Lord’s saving work was completed when He breathed no more, and Bill’s nearly nine decades filled with so many experiences were totally caught up in this love of the Lord who waited to greet Bill when Bill breathed his last.  It is our firm belief that Bill suffers no more and that the Lord who loves us all is able to fill him with new life.

          The Lord knows you will miss having Bill among you in your home, and this same Lord assures you that Bill will always be in your heart. 

          May Christ, who promised to prepare a place for people of faith, welcome Bill to His care and continue to look upon us with compassion as we share our grief with the Lord and with each other.

           

Maxine Barritt, 1924-2011

Born:  October 31, 1924   Died:  April 21, 2011
Funeral:  April 26, 2011
Readings:  Ecclesiastes 3:1-14   1 John 3:1-12   John 15:9-12

 

Homily:

 

            The Lord tells us there is a time for everything.  We heard this message from the Book of Ecclesiastes. As we reflect on the meaning of this day, we know it is time to thank God for the many ways Maxine was a blessing for so many people.  We know it is time to commend her to God’s everlasting care.  We know it is time to help lift the burden of each others’ grief.  We rely on the Lord to strengthen our faith in God’s goodness.

            I enjoyed each and every visit with Maxine.  She was always so delightful.  I enjoyed the stories about her nursing career, stories about her family members who meant so much to her, stories about when she sang in this church choir, and stories about her involvement with the Niles Catholic Women’s Club.  I am grateful for all the opportunities to share time with Maxine, including being able to pray for her on Wednesday of Holy Week about twenty-four hours before God called her home on Holy Thursday afternoon.

            All of us give thanks for the time Maxine spent among us.  Her children, siblings, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, in-laws, indeed all family members, neighbors, and friends were blessed to know her.  She was also a blessing to the community through her participation in the Niles Bicentennial Chorus and her volunteering for the Diabetes Association, March of Dimes, and American cancer Society.

            I keep thinking about one of the very last things Maxine reflected about.  When she was last able to converse a little bit, Teddy asked her what she thought heaven was like.  Maxine said that in heaven there are no tomorrows. It is comforting to believe that Maxine is forever able to be with God and with so many people of faith who completed this journey before Maxine completed hers. 

            If we reflect on the message expressed in the First Letter of John, we are reminded that what we shall be is so wonderful that it has not been revealed to us.  We only get glimpses of it now. We believe that God enables Maxine to see Him as He is, and she no longer has to look forward to being delivered from the trials and tribulations brought about by her declining health.  In God’s great love, He enables us to be His own beloved children even now. No need for Maxine to wait for some tomorrow in the future.  And truly, Maxine was a child of God and a child at heart, being the oldest of ten children and spending a lifetime caring for children.  So much of her work in the labor and delivery unit at St. Joseph Hospital for nineteen years before her retirement years ago was devoted to welcoming children to all that this world has to offer.  Now we believe that God offers her a life with Him forever.           

            Sue, Teddy, and Freddie will always cherish memories of a mother who worked midnight shift to enable her children to have a good education.  They will think about their mother’s insistence that chores be completed even before enjoying other activities, in fact -- going to bed!

            Those closest to Maxine will remember how she frequently sent cards to others, how she always had other people in her thoughts.  Maxine was an ever so strong proponent of the belief that actions speak louder than words, and we can be sure this influences and will continue to influence so many things that are done by those who learned from her example.

            Maxine was called home on Holy Thursday afternoon at her home.  As difficult as her passing is for all of us, it is comforting to think of her being able to share a heavenly banquet on such a beautiful feast! 

            The colorful stained glass window to my left tells the story of Jesus eating with His closest friends shortly before He gave His life for them.  How many times Maxine saw this window from her place in the congregation as she prayed with us during happier and healthier times.  Our Gospel message comes from a scene at that Last Supper where the Gospel writer named John reminds us that Jesus taught His disciples to live on in His love. 
We are taking Maxine to her resting place two days after Easter Sunday.  I’ve been told that she really liked the song entitled Easter Parade that was written by Irving Berlin in 1933.  It speaks of a beautiful bonnet, a hat worn by a woman so admired being sung about.  

            Now as we express our admiration for Maxine, our faith tells us that the most important thing Jesus did for us after giving His life on the cross was to rise from the dead.  This was the most beautiful expression of making new life possible for all people of faith. And we can be sure that Maxine trusts that we know this promise of resurrection is the most beautiful expression of what it means for us to celebrate this Easter Season.

            May Jesus the Good Shepherd lead Maxine to the fullness of life and love in His beautiful Kingdom, where all tears are wiped away and the smiles of the saints rejoice with her.

            May this same Lord and Savior enable us to live on in His love each and every time we remember the many beautiful ways Maxine molded and shaped our lives.

 

 

Ann Marie Nuzzi, 1925-2011

 

 

Robert J Lyell Sr, 1928-2011

Born: 09/11/1928 Died:  03/29/2011 Funeral: 04/02/2011
Homily based on readings from Isaiah 65:21-25 & Matthew 20:1-16

 

Homily:

            All of here are praying for Connie, for Bob’s children, grandchildren, our little friend (his great-grandchild Ben), in-laws, members of the extended family, nieces, nephews, and all who were closest to him.  Know that you have our condolences and support.

          Bob was a long-time member of this parish.  On the day after Christmas in the year 1953 here in this church, Bob and Connie exchanged their marriage vows in the presence of Father Oresete Cerbara.  How many times through the years Bob joined us in prayer in this sacred place.   Today, we join together in prayer to thank God for Bob’s life, to express our very real need for comfort and consolation, and to commend Bob to the everlasting care of the Lord.

          How important it is for us to rely on God’s Word to bring us a message of consolation.

          Several days ago, some of us were gathered in Bob’s living room.   We talked about the beautiful words from the prophet Isaiah.  In the 65th chapter of Isaiah, we are invited to a vision of how life can be for God’s faithful people.  We are assured that with God’s help, we can maintain justice and do what is right.  We can be sure that God will not leave the world the way it is with all of its evils, maladies, and heartaches.  Knowing that God enables true goodness to shine forth frees us to be like glowing candles in the present darkness of sin and death that is part of our reality.  We can be ever so sure that the darkness will be finally vanished.

          Thinking about this leads us to consider one of the precious symbols we rely on at our Catholic Mass of Christian Burial.  Near Bob’s casket is the light of the Paschal Candle.  It symbolizes the Light of Christ, ever victorious over every imaginable darkness.  This Lord Jesus guides Bob through the shadow of death to a place of refreshment, light, and peace.  This Light of Christ reminds us all to consider the goodness that we so loved in the many ways Bob touched our lives, and to let this goodness shine through our lives all our days.

This beautiful symbol also reminds us that the Light of Christ obliterates any and all human weakness, sin, and imperfection that was a part of Bob’s human condition, for the Lord in His love makes all things new.  The white pall on Bob’s caskets reminds us that just as Bob was clothed with the love and presence of Christ at his baptism, so is Bob clothed with the love and presence of the Lord for all eternity.

          We also consider the story of the workers in the vineyard as the Gospel writer Matthew told it.  How important it is to focus on the generosity of God.  The Lord spoke through Bob’s life each and every time Bob wanted to enable others to be raised up, and never at the expense of beating someone else down.  You will retell so many stories about Bob’s concern for justice when you reminisce about his eighty-two years of living.  And the Lord blessed your lives with these stories as they happened, and will continue to bless your lives when you are true to the memories of these stories.

          All of us are saddened by the passing of Bob.  His chair in the living room stands empty, but you will be keenly aware that his presence permeates our memories and our hearts.  His love for the Lord and for all of us endures forever. The Light of Christ reflected in His life seeks to shine forth in our lives all our days.

          May Christ comfort us in our sorrows, fill us with wisdom and strength, and let perpetual light shine upon Bob.

May we be consoled in believing that God is ever faithful to His promise to lead Bob to a world filled with the brightness of everlasting love as our love for him and his love for us never ends.

 

Tina Baragona 1915-2011

Born:  01/04/1915   Died:  03/18/2011

Gospel:  John 6:3-15

 

Homily:

 

            How many times Tina and I sat at the table just inside the door at the house on Stepney Street.  You can easily envision the scene. The television would be on, usually loud enough to hear from a long, long distance away.  When I would ask Tina if she minded if I’d turn the television down, she always said that would be okay. The dog Cody (and years ago, good ol’ Max) would greet me.  How often a little great-grandchild or two would be nearby.

          And Tina always had a story or two.  Sometimes there were three or four stories.  She always appreciated the chance to pray together.  I’d give her Communion.  She’d tell me that she loved me.  And she made sure that I’d be willing to come and see her again.

          Memories of gathering at Tina’s table and praying are fond memories for me.  And I will miss her.  All of us have stories about gathering around the table with Tina.  And already, all of us miss her.  We trust in God’s consolation and the support of one another to see each other through.  That is why we gather near God’s table today, to tell stories about Tina, to share memories, to remember that the Jesus who was so very much loved by Tina gathers with us today as we reflect on His promises to welcome Tina to His everlasting care.

          You heard the Gospel chosen today.  When I thought about this Gospel several days ago, I was so very convinced that it was so fitting for Tina.  It features so many people gathered together.  Jesus is there among them and He expresses such deep love for them.  There is a prayer. And the Lord feeds them so generously; just as Tina always wanted to make sure everyone had plenty to eat.  She cooked for far, far more years than most people could even begin to imagine.

          As time goes on, memories of Tina’s beautiful smile, and those gorgeous blue eyes will nourish your souls.  You’ll remember so many happy things about Tina.

          You’ll remember her final trip to Mountaineer.  She really enjoyed that experience such a short time before she went to the hospital.

          You’ll remember the fishing expeditions of years ago.  Who could forget her esteem for BINGO?  Memories of Tina singing will resound in your minds for years to come.

          Just as Jesus taught those He encountered how important it was to serve the needs of others, you’ll think of Tina volunteering at Trumbull Memorial Hospital and with the American Red Cross during happier and healthier times.

 

 All of us are grateful to God for the love she showed as a wife before the Lord called her husband Louis home.  We thank God for the constant love, care, and kindness expressed by her to everyone. Tina was so sincere when she said she would keep you in her prayers.  Let me add that I will always appreciate the prayers she offered for me.  I believe she will continue to pray for us all. 

 

Tina was proud of her Italian heritage, being born in Naples, Italy, and made it a point to impart so many wonderful traditions to her family and friends.  Most importantly, I am sure she wants everyone to remember her as loving us all.

 

I know the long hospitalization was difficult for her and for us all.  We place our trust in the Lord who has delivered Tina from her suffering and is able to welcome her with open arms to a place where there is no more sadness, pain, and suffering.

 

Our vision of faith enables us to trust that Tina has been invited to join her parents, husband, grandson Sergio, brothers and sisters, and every person of faith close to her who completed life’s journey before Tina. May the Lord continue to nourish our lives as we remember Tina so fondly and commend her to the care of the Lord. 

 

John C Zubyk 1926-2011

Born:  May 1, 1926   Died:  March 20, 2011   Age:  84
Funeral:  March 24, 2011

 

            All of us here at OLMC Church extend our sympathy to Rose, her sons John II and Alan, and to Melissa, Charles, and Kaitlyn.  You have been in our prayers since we heard that John was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital and since we learned of his passing on Sunday.

            With special fondness for the Word of God, we let the Lord touch our hearts through the message of the Gospel that was proclaimed a few moments ago.  Jesus was gathered in this story with His closest friends the night before He gave His life for us all. 
He told them to remain in His love.  He wanted to give them the fullness of joy.  He reminded them that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

            All of us pray for the grace to trust that John is embraced by the love of the Lord forever, that John knows no more suffering.  The Lord enables John to know joy beyond what our grieving hearts can begin to imagine.

            We ask the Lord to bless us with many happy memories.  Rose will always cherish the 59 years of marriage she and John shared.  They built their house together.  All of you will remember how John enjoyed polkas, Ohio State University Football, fishing, and joking around.  You’ll remember him listening to the radio as he worked on Saturdays.  He was very talented as a carpenter.

            When we go to the cemetery after this Mass, John will be honored by the Trumbull County American Legion Honor Guard in a special ceremony for his service as a United States Army veteran of World War II. Although John rarely talked about his military experiences, our nation is very grateful for his dedication.

            Here at the parish, we will always cherish how special it was for John and Rose to come to church together so very often. 

            Our faith during this Season of Lent leads us to ponder the steps Jesus took in His final journey to the Cross.  The Stations of the Cross all around the walls of the Church and this large crucifix here in the sanctuary recount that journey of love.  As our hearts and minds walk that journey, we know that the Lord walks with us in our grief-filled journey.  We depend on Jesus to carry us through the reality of our grief.  We trust that John will rise again with Jesus, and that assures us that our grief is not void of hope. 

            May the Lord continue to be with us. May He give us the grace of remembering many happy times with John, and assure us that John is at peace.  The Lord makes it possible for John to be with his brothers, sisters, and all people of faith who completed life’s journeys before John. May our hope that we will see John in the Kingdom of God when our days have passed guide our journeys today and through all our tomorrows, and enable us to live on in the love of the Lord.

 

Lorraine A. Marrara 1951-2011

Born:  January 19, 1951   Died:  March 11, 2011 Funeral:  March 14, 2011
Gospel:  Matthew 11:28-30

 

Homily:

            Jesus told us to come to Him.  We heard these words in the Gospel chosen for today’s Mass of Christian Burial for one loved by God and loved by us all.

            As we ponder Lorraine’s life and trust in the compassion of Christ, we realize that Lorraine answered this call to come to Jesus so very often.

            Lorraine was baptized here in this church by Father Nick Arioli on February 18, 1951.

            This is where she celebrated her First Communion on April 13, 1958.

            Bishop Gregorio Rozman from Slovenia, who visited this parish on October 22, 1958, helped mark a special day for Lorraine when he enabled her and her classmates to share in the Sacrament of Confirmation.  She chose the Confirmation Name Ann.

            Many were the times Lorraine prayed with us here.  All who knew Lorraine are inspired by how she maintained a strong faith even during her most difficult times in life.  She prayed throughout the times people were insensitive to her.  Lorraine earned the Knights of Columbus Scholastic Achievement Award in 1964 when she was a student at Mount Carmel School.  She participated in the May Crowning Ceremonies during her school years.  All of these things enabled her to build such an important firm foundation of faith. Lorraine handled her illness and her dying with a remarkable measure of courage, faith, and readiness to be with the Lord. She also expressed constant concern for her mother and for all others who cared so lovingly for her.

            We think about her journeys through life.  How often she walked up and down Robbins Avenue.  She’d pick up her prescriptions at Troutman’s. Lorraine bought a few items at Pit N Git, always hoping to cash in on the daily numbers.  She’d go to Giant Eagle.  She really enjoyed the chance to be outdoors. 

 

When her health declined and her ability to walk was diminished completely, we came to trust in our hearts that she was still walking with the Lord and we trust that she always will. We trust that she’s walking with her infant sister Jeannie who preceded Lorraine in death.  We trust that she is walking with her beloved father Sam, with Brenda’s mother Juanita Smith who was called home so very recently, and with so many other people of faith who have shown us the way.

 

Occasions like these remind us of how important it is to have the love and support of our families and members of our parish and community.  We bring Lorraine before the Lord with a great measure of love, and we trust that God raises her up to a place of light, refreshment, and peace where there is no sadness, no suffering, and no pain.

Several days ago, Josephine mentioned to me how Lorraine always kept her room cleaned up.  It led me to think about a conversation I had months ago at the hospital when Lorraine first learned about her disease diagnosis and terminal prognosis. 

 

Lorraine so confidently and yet so humbly said that she was ready to meet the Lord in a better place.  It was as if she knew that rooms are not the only places to keep clean, but in the Lord’s great love, He also constantly cleanses our souls so that He might enter there and dwell with us.  Lorraine died so early in the Season of Lent, a Season known as a springtime for the soul.

 

We trust that Lorraine has answered Christ’s call to come to Him.  We trust that the Lord has invited Lorraine to a most wonderful walk.  It is a walk with Him forever in paradise. 

 

At the same time, we ask Jesus to walk with us.  Walk with us in our grief, Lord.  Fill us with your loving presence and compassion.  Brighten the dark days of sadness and sorrow with awareness of your love, the hope that never ends, and the strength only God can give.

 

Left on our own, our burdens are heavy. But sharing them with Jesus and with each other, love lightens the grief and enables us to face the journey together.

May the grace of our memories of Lorraine’s faith inspire us all our days, and give us strength for all of our journeys.

 

 

 

 

 

Dorothy C Packo 1923-2011

Born:  July 20 1923   Died:  February 25, 2011   Age:  87

Memorial Mass:  March 2, 2011

Gospel:  John 15:9-12

 

Homily:
On behalf of the people of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, I extend condolences to everyone closest to Dorothy.  We assure you of our compassionate thoughts and prayerful support.

            It is so fitting that we commend Dorothy to the Lord here in this church. Years ago, she was very active here.

            Dorothy’s husband Frank was very involved with the Knights of Columbus here in Niles and she accompanied him as he participated in so many activities associated with the Knights. People have remarked about the goodness, sweetness, and friendly nature demonstrated by Frank and Dorothy when they were able to answer the call to serve their parish and community so well.

            She brought Jesus to many when she was an Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist.  Her compassion was extended to those who were in nursing homes.

            Those closest to her knew Dorothy as a wonderful homemaker who truly enjoyed spending time with her family.

            On behalf of the Church, I extend my support to members of her family who did so much to make sure Dorothy’s needs were taken care of at home during the long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.  God bless you for your diligent and dedicated efforts through these difficult years.

            The message proclaimed in the passage from Gospel of John chosen for this Memorial Mass brings out the farewell message Jesus shared with those closest to Him.  He assured them of His love.  He encouraged them to remain in His love all their days.  He wanted them to know the fullness of joy. 

            We believe this morning that the Lord says these same words to us and speaks them through your memories of Dorothy.  Christ wants you to be assured of the love she shared with you.  Jesus wants you to know that your love for Dorothy is pleasing to Him.  Our Savior wants us all to remember Dorothy’s example of loving service and live the wisdom of His teachings.

            May the Lord, who is able to give new life, enable Dorothy to be with Frank, Josephine, and so many other loved ones who have completed life’s journey.  May He guide us all our days and enable us to remain in His love.

 

Leroy Stabile 1942-2011

 

John Sherock 1925-2011

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Marie Ciminero 1919-2011

Born:  December 22, 1919   Died:  February 5, 2011 Funeral:  February 8, 2011
Gospel: Luke 9:10-17

 

            I am sure that as you have had time to reflect about Marie’s life toward the end of her life’s journey and since God finally called her home on Saturday afternoon, you find that she nourished your life in many ways.   We pray especially for George, Elizabeth, Martha, Jennie, Ted, and everyone close to Marie.  Be assured of the support of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish.  We know this is a difficult time for you.

            How well many of you will remember the way Marie would announce that she was about to come into a room.  She’d holler:  “YOO - HOO!”    You will miss that as time goes on.

 You’ll think of the time she devoted to crocheting so many caps. You’ll remember the great amount of time she spent with family members.  You’ll smile when you recall the dances she enjoyed, and when you reminisce about the pictures you displayed at calling hours last evening featuring Marie having fun at so many places.  You’ll remember how loyal she was to her siblings.

            When I heard how much she enjoyed cooking, and how she baked pitzells, rice pudding, and pineapple upside down cake, I was led to choose the Gospel story we heard proclaimed a few moments ago.  Six times in the four Gospel accounts in the Bible  a story is told about Jesus feeding a multitude.  Today, we heard Luke’s version of the story.  We see how Jesus enabled just a little bit of food to go so far.  Five loaves and two fish were multiplied to enable about five thousand men to be satisfied. 

            Since Marie was born in 1919 and lived through the Great Depression that struck this country when Marie was almost ten years old, we know that she could appreciate making the most of everything. Remember that I mentioned how you find that Marie nourished your lives in many ways?   This is why the story from Luke is so appropriate as we commend her to God’s everlasting care. 

Marie nourished your stomachs with the pitzells, rice pudding, and pineapple upside down cake. 

She nourished your need to be loved by crocheting the caps. 

She nourished the lives of the sick when she worked as a nurse’s aid at Trumbull Memorial Hospital.

  She nourished the safety of children when she worked as a crossing guard for the Niles City Schools before retiring more than three decades ago. 

She nourished her brothers when she visited them at the VA Hospitals. 

She nourished our need to enjoy life when she danced at The Elms Ballroom, Idora Park, and Yankee Lake during happier and healthier times.

            When Jesus fed multitudes of people, He prepared them for the greatest way He intended to nourish people for all time.  He went on to give His Body & Blood, reminding us that He poured out His entire life to make us whole.  He taught us that each and every time we gather to remember Him, He is among us.  And He keeps teaching us to pour out our lives in loving service for each other.  The lessons never end until we are all reunited in His kingdom.  And we are nourished especially when we gather to hear God’s Word, support each other, and share the Eucharist in memory of the Lord.

            You will continue to be nourished by memories of Marie.  You’ll share words of remembrance about her.  The stories will live on.  Your homes will seem different without the characteristic “YOO-HOO!” at your door.

            But the Lord will keep calling to enter the door of your hearts. 

Even now, Christ wants to nourish us as we share our sorrows and joys with each other and with Him. 

As time goes on, Jesus will want us to know that He has opened the door to His kingdom.  Yes, the Lord invites Marie to be with her husband Joseph.  Christ finally gives her the chance to be with her son Joey.  Our faith tells us she can be reunited with her brothers Donald and John, her sisters Betty and Ann, and so many other dearly departed relatives and friends.

May the Lord continue to bless our memories of Marie, and keep us in His care during this time of sorrow and at all times.

 

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Allan P. Syacsure 1961-2011

Born:  12-16-1961   Died: 02-04-2011
Readings : Wisdom 3:1-9 Romans 14: 7-9 John 14:1-6,

 

On behalf of everyone here at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish, I extend condolences to all of you closest to Allan. I know that recent times have been difficult. We are praying for you.

 

So many thoughts about Allan come to mind. As some members of Allan’s family and I visited on Saturday afternoon, we talked about how often he watched the hunting channel. Could we ever count how many times Candy told Allan that every episode was the same, and Allan told her “No, every episode is different?”

 

The deer heads that Allan mounted, the display of the fish Allan caught, the pictures of wonderful times spent outdoors are all reminders to us concerning how much Allan enjoyed the outdoors. We pray that the Lord might enable us to cherish many happy memories of happier times during the days, weeks, months, and years ahead.

These past few years were so very challenging for Allan. He had been such a faithful worker, the last fourteen years of employment with the Struthers Metal Service as a shear operator. The challenges of his disease kept him from enjoying many of the things (like trips to Mountaineer) he enjoyed most of all. You cherish the memory of his final trip to the outer banks. You also cherish the memory of Allan being able to get two deer just before his illness took its final turn for the worse. Allan himself lamented that he would not be able to ride his motorcycle with Candy this coming summer, and all of us lift up our sorrows to the Lord who promises to bring us consolation.

 

As time passes, you’ll remember how Allan never wanted to listen to gossip. If anyone would approach him with a story about somebody else, he had a unique way of saying “I don’t want to know about it”, and turning away.

 

You’ll also remember how he truly enjoyed cookies, candy, donuts, and being told that he could buy five dollars worth of whatever he wanted. Allan always had a way of making the most of it!

 

Allan truly enjoyed his friends, and was loved deeply by his family. It’s remarkable to appreciate that not only did Allan and Candy enjoy more than twenty-seven years of marriage together, they dated each other since they were in eighth grade!

 

As we have gathered here to commend Allan to God’s care, we find consolation in the words of Sacred Scripture that were proclaimed a few moments ago.

 

God told us in the Book of Wisdom that no more torment shall touch those who have gone before us in faith. Allan’s sufferings have ended. We trust that he is forever at peace.

 

St. Paul reminded us in our Second Reading that none of us lives as his own master, and none of us dies as his own master. If we live, we live for the Lord. If we die, we die as servants of the Lord. We place our trust in the Lord, who is truly the Master of Our Lives. We trust that Allan is with God forever. We pray that in God’s time, we will all be together in the joys of paradise.

 

Jesus promised to prepare a place for people of faith. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. One week before Allan died, we prayed together in his home as he was preparing to go to Hospice House. Now we pray for the grace to believe that Jesus welcomes Allan home to His everlasting care.

 

May God bless our memories of Allan. May the Lord strengthen us in our sorrows, and be the very Way for us when our sadness tempts us to lose direction. May Christ be the very Truth in a world that often is filled with deception and that which is misleading. May the Lord Jesus Christ, who died so that we might live forever, be our Life as we struggle with the sadness and grief associated with Allan’s passing.

 

We commend Allan to God’s care, and trust that the Lord will be with us now and always.

 

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Lola DeMathews 1920-2011

Born:  December 30, 1920   Died:  January 21, 2011
Funeral:  January 27, 2011
  Gospel:  John 15:9-13

Homily:
             People are always fascinated by stories.  After all, stories teach us so much.  They enable us to connect to our roots.  They give us a sense of purpose for the present.  Stories also point us toward hope for the future.
 
            The story of Lola’s life of faith began on these sacred grounds in the building that used to stand just west of this church building.  She was baptized as Lola Macali by Father Nicola Santoro on August 14, 1921.
 
            The story of faith was reaffirmed when she shared in the Eucharist for the very first time here in this church on May 19, 1929, just over five months before the stock market crashed and the Great Depression afflicted our nation.
 
            On May 8, 1931, Lola and her classmates celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation within these walls.
 
            And it was here that she and Benjamin “Ace” DeMathews exchanged wedding vows in the presence of Father Angelo DellaVecchia, family members, and friends on October 4, 1947.
 
            Stories connect us so very well to our roots. You think of happier and healthier times shared with Archie and Vera, and with Clara before the Lord called Clara to Himself. Lola and “Ace” brought Valerie, David, and Michael into the world, influencing their lives in such positive, happy, and loving ways. “Ace” and Lola were partners in everything up until his death nearly a decade ago.  You remember caring for the many dogs and horses you had while growing up. Your lives were formed by a great work ethic and an abundance of laughter.  You remember your mother golfing, playing volleyball, baseball, bowling, swimming, and playing bridge.   You learned so much from how she supported her husband in working hard not only for the growth of their business, but also for the growth of this parish. Your hearts are grateful for memories of her enjoyment of her Italian heritage by carrying on the traditions including baking, cooking, and participating in so many family functions that will not be the same without her.
 
            Lola’s granddaughter Summer was so appreciative of the example and love given by her grandmother.  How blessed it was for Summer to celebrate her birthday just one day before her Na Na’s birthday. Summer was the shining light in her Na Na's life. They were one in the same, because of the love they had for each other.
 
            Truly, stories about all of these memories will be told and retold.  They connect us so well with our roots.
            There is no doubt that the stories in the Scriptures not only connect us with the roots of our faith, but also give us a sense of purpose for the present.  These stories also point us toward hope for the future.
 
            The Gospel we chose for Lola’s Mass of Christian Burial reminds us of a very special story.  Jesus was gathered with His closest friends the night before He gave His life for us.  He wanted them to remain in His love. He wanted them to have the fullness of joy and celebrate His friendship each and every time they would remember His love.
 
            This gives us a very real sense of purpose for the difficulties of the present we are facing here and now.  We do not face the sadness of Lola’s unexpected passing alone.  We face it knowing that her life was rooted in Christ’s love.  Her faith was so very real and still is.  She prayed on such a regular basis.  She taught those closest to her the importance of faith, hope, and love.  She lived this Gospel in so many ways.  Truly, she wants you to remember her as loving you, for we have been told by Jesus to remember Him as loving us.  Yes, we have been told by the Lord to believe that He invites us to the fullness of joy.  We have been told that we are His friends. 
We have been told that there is no love greater than His love and we can all share in this love all our days and beyond this life.  His dying and His rising can enable Lola to know right now a joy we hope to share some day.
 
            Stories point us toward hope for the future.  Certainly, Lola would want us to celebrate family and friendship the rest of our days as she so often appreciated these gifts throughout nine decades of living.
 
            Truly, Lola would want us to use our gifts and talents well as a tribute to the hard work she and “Ace” knew in their efforts to build a better family, a better parish, and a better community.
 
            There is no doubt that Lola would want us to cherish the good things with which God blessed us, to laugh about fun times, to bear with each other in our sorrows and to share many happy memories as we build new memories with each other.
 
            Even now, she prays that we might know the fullness of joy and remain in God’s love, and celebrate her life and her love.
 
            Some would say the story of Lola spans the date of her birth (December 30, 1920) through the date God called her home so peacefully (on Friday, January 21, 2011). 
 
But our faith tells us the story continues when we remember Lola’s faith.
 
The story is perpetuated when we persevere in hope as Lola did when life’s challenges and sorrows elicited her to respond to them.
 
The story continues when we remain rooted in love, and are bearers and sharers of that love in all that we do.

 

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