Hi everyone! I thought I would update you on what is going on with Theresa and with Frank's memorial service.
I've met with Theresa every day this week planning for Frank's Memorial Service Friday. She is doing as well as could be expected. Theresa is surrounded by friends and family. Her dad came up from North Carolina. Her son, Jason, has received permission for leave from his military service.
Theresa and Frank had sold their place and Theresa moved everything out last Friday. Consequently she had no place to live. Friends and fellow parishioners, Sheri and Jack, have come to the rescue, providing a place for Theresa to stay. If you would like to write Theresa a note or send her a card, use this address: Theresa Rutkowski, 4565 Flowers Road, Mansfield, Ohio 44903.
Frank's obituary can be read online at Wappner's website here.
Frank's Memorial service will be held tomorrow late afternoon at the church. Here are the details:
- Calling Hours from 4pm to 5pm, Friday July 8th, held in the Chapel at church - 636 S. Lexington - Springmill Road. Theresa has selected photos of Frank, which we will be showing on the chapel screen. She has also chosen inspirational music, which she thinks Frank would have enjoyed. Friends and family can meet and share stories with one another before the memorial service begins.
- Frank's Memorial Service will begin at 5pm, also in the chapel. Family and friends will share stories celebrating Frank's life. We will sing two songs together and two of Frank's friends and family will sing for us. Helga will also play her violin. We will watch Frank's testimony and baptism and I will share a brief sermon.
- Reception follows. Sometime after 6pm (don't know exactly how long the memorial service will go), we'll move back to the new gym where a reception will be offered. Frank's long-time friend, Jack, has put together a playlist of oldies music Frank would have liked. Sandwiches and finger foods will be offered.
Frank was a friend to all of us. He gave his life to the Lord and was baptized within our church last January. The vocabulary of our church will forever be changed by Frank's oft-given request that we "pray with umph!" Let's celebrate our memories of Frank together on Friday. All are invited. Hope to see you there! - Pastor Mark
