The picture above is a photo of Deacon Stan captured between Dulce and me on our wedding day. Deacon Stan, you made Saint Joseph Parish a wonderful and fun place to be!

Yesterday, we heard official news that you had entered eternal life. Our hearts were struck by mixed emotions. It has been two Good Fridays since we last saw you in person. Last night, Dulce and I remembered happy memories with you.

She laughed about how you were the first to bless her throat on the Feast of Saint Blaise. You brought the candles to her at the front office and gave your blessing.

On another occasion, you asked her to hold the umbrella over you. You did this to avoid burning in the sun. It was during the blessing of the animals on the Feast of Saint Francis.

As for me, you constantly checked in. We sat down for coffee and spoke about various Church things. It was a laugh a minute! I once told you about my trip to the Philippines. I spoke of bringing a large 12-foot statue home of the Sleeping Saint Joseph. You were so kind. You let me run with that idea and commented about such a statue’s size. You gently corrected me that the statue is 12-inches! We laughed for several minutes to the point of tears!

I enjoyed our plentiful conversations. You even inducted me into the breakfast club ROMEO, which stands for Retired Old Men Eating Out.

All these moments etched our hearts with fondness of joy-filled memories at the parish.

You made it to our wedding day even with a brand-new knee! We are grateful that you and Paula have been part of our journey.

Our family began to grow. You were the first to show up at the hospital. You came to meet our newborn son. That memory is etched in our hearts.

The two deacon stoles you gave me are still hanging in my home office. It is the only memento I have to remember you at this time of your passing to eternal life.

You knew the Lord. It was evident in the countless conversations. Thank you for pointing me to Jesus. I am indebted for that precious gift, Deacon Stan!

The vigil and rosary for Deacon Rudger will be held on Friday, Feb. 21 in St. Joseph Church, located at 280 Oak Tree Lane in Lincoln. Viewing will start at 4 p.m., followed by the rosary at 5 p.m. and the vigil at 5:30 p.m.

The funeral Mass for Deacon Rudger will be celebrated on Saturday, Feb. 22 at 11 a.m. in St. Joseph Church. A reception will follow the Mass. Livestream of the Mass can be found at www.stjosephlincoln.com.