Fred J. Brazina
There are so many lives that he touched, so many people that he mentored, and so many details of his life incomplete. His body has left us long before he ever intended.
Extraordinary seems an understatement: Miraculous, compassionate, intelligent, and full of practical jokes, I have never known a more dynamic person – nor another with as much charisma. He loved people – and was genuine in every relationship. He loved life, and enjoyed the challenges he faced – knowing that through his dilemma he would become an even greater person, capable of offering guidance to all of us based on his experiences.
He shared his vast knowledge with anyone that wanted to listen, and expected us to be the best people we were capable of becoming in our own lives. His expectations were always high, and the word “can’t” not in his dictionary. His loved ones were encouraged by him to excel in every capacity, and he took pride in knowing he contributed to our accomplishments. He offered his support in ways that were sometimes unconventional, and relished in his out-of-the-box thinking to overcome difficulties in his own, as well as the lives of others.
Though he was usually the one behind the camera, in the photos we have of him – he was never without a smile. He enjoyed every moment and every experience that he was a part of, always seeking a new acquaintance or opportunity to further grow his arsenal of wisdom and advice.
His hobbies were immeasurable, his associations countless, and his passion never-ending. Time was always his most valuable asset, and he shared his with each of us – cherishing the experiences we had and building memories that would fill our lives forever with happy memoirs.
In the past weeks, he shared with me how impacted he was by the concern for his health received from each of us, and many more that are not able to be with us today. He was honored that we were a part of his life, and many of us blessed for having had the opportunity to share with him how he impacted our own.
His wishes would be for all of us to continue to excel in our own journey through life. He would want us merely to be the best we are capable of becoming, and to make the most of every moment we are privileged to have in this world. Take with you his advice, remember his often twisted sense of humor, and learn from him just how precious and valuable each moment of life is.
Go forward today, knowing that he would not want us to miss a beat of our own. He is driving his Miata through the hills of our memories, on his way to share some Margaritas with those who left before him, and will be waiting in his wine cellar for each of us when we greet him in heaven. Do it with a smile, and take pride in having known him – as that would make him prouder than words can express.
Authored by: Pollyann Brazina
