Memories….
Every year Rollie, Aunt Mill and Uncle Frank would come to Arizona for a visit. I was always so excited to see them. It was like waiting for the most loving, kind, fun family in the world. I remember before I started pre-school that during their visit, I would get to spend a lot of time with them as my grandmother took care of me when my parents were at work. One of my best memories was when my Gram and Aunt Mill told Uncle Frank and Rollie that they were going shopping. They asked if the boys could watch me while they were gone. Without hesitation they said, “Sure!” As soon as the ladies left, Uncle Frank and Rollie asked me if I wanted to do “something fun.” My response was “Yes!” Less than 15 minutes later I was sitting between them at the race track watching the horses run. Oh, what a great time we had, and how I loved being with them! Needless to say, upon our return, Gram and Aunt Mill were at a loss for words regarding how they were going to tell my parents that their 3 1/2-year-old was at the track all afternoon. However, for me, I will always remember it as one of the best days of my life.
Another memory from that year was that I told Rollie that I thought he was “even more handsome then Perry Como.” Rollie couldn’t stop laughing. He took me into the kitchen and made me repeat what I had said to the others. Then the whole family couldn’t stop laughing. At the time I was not sure what was so funny, but one thing was for certain: I knew I was right. What made this story even funnier was the grief Rollie took after that conversation. For the rest of the vacation, the family would refer to him as “Perry.” His response back was always a quick smile and a quiet chuckle.
There are so many more great stories about Rollie but I will close with this: There was a kindness about Rollie, an understanding patience, a quick wit, a great sense of humor and a reassuring smile that could put anyone at ease. How blessed we were to know such an exceptional man! My comfort is knowing that he is now in heaven surrounded by Patty, our family and friends. For those of you who are experiencing that emptiness that comes with losing someone you greatly loved, I share your sadness. I send my condolences to you for your loss and will keep you all in my prayers. Thank you for inviting us to his service. It was an honor to be present.
Love from your west coast cousin,
Sandy (Overacker) Lucarelli
Edmonds, WA