Syzdekistan

Yesterday, Nancy and I went to Robert Williams’ funeral services. The Mass at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s was very touching. Rob gave a beautiful eulogy and the playing of “Taps” and the folding and presentation of the flag was extraordinarily moving. Since the Review Journal removes obituaries from their site, I have copied it here. From September 6, 2006:

Robert E. Williams, 63, of Las Vegas, passed away Saturday, Sept. 2, 2006. He was born July 18, 1943, in Caliente, and resided in Nevada for 50 years. Robert graduated from Las High School in 1962. He served in the 1st infantry during the Vietnam War receiving a medal of Valor for heroism. He worked for the Union Pacific Railroad for 43 years working as a freight dock laborer, passenger baggage handler, passenger ticket salesman, IBM clerk, freight yard car checker, Round House locomotive hostler and locomotive engineer. Bob was married to Patricia for 38 years, his greatest accomplishment was being a wonderful husband, father, uncle, and doting grandpa. He was preceded in death by his father, William J. Williams; and sister, Harriet Ada Phillips. He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughters, Kathleen Sorom (Bill), Mary Francis Williams; son, Robert J. Williams (Karin); three grandchildren, Kayla Mae Elizabeth, Samantha Renae and Aidan Michael Robert; his mother, Nellie Williams; sister, Jean Staley; and brothers, Bill and John Williams. Memorial service will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday, Sept. 8, at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, 1811 Pueblo Vista Dr. Burial will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Donations may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church, or Nathan Adelson Hospice.

Comments from the Review Journal are below.

Date: September 06, 2006
From: Richelle Couch
City/State: Las Vegas
I just wanted to say in the short time I got to know Mr. Williams, he made a big impression on my heart. He was always very open, easy to talk to and made me feel like part of the family. I was blessed he was part of my life and I will always miss him.

Date: September 06, 2006
From: John Leemig
City/State: Reno, NV
I want to express my condolences to my Aunt Pat, cousins Kate, Rob and Mary their family and all who new Bob as friend. My prayers are with you. May The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.

Date: September 06, 2006
From: Patti & Bradd Gray
City/State: Las Vegas
We were shocked to read of Bob`s passing. He was a good neighbor, was very kind and had a wonderful sense of humor. He was also very generous, taking time from his day to take J.C. to see the trains. Our deepest sympathy goes to all of you. If you need anything, don`t hesitate to call. Our # is 374-1626. God bless you.

Date: September 06, 2006
From: Stan Mitchell
City/State: Las Vegas
What a great loss we have all endured with the passing of Bob. He was always a pleasure to be around and always had a smile for everyone. We worked together on “chain gang” freight from Las Vegas to Yermo. He will be greatly missed by everyone who came in contact with him.

Date: September 08, 2006
From: Patricia Panagoplos
City/State: Roy,Utah
This is a day of mixed emotions for it is a sad day for the loss of a wonderful uncle and yet we must rejoice for uncle Bob is with Christ and will forever be painless, happy, and content. Uncle Bob touched a lot of lives with unconditional love. I just pray we can all be an example like him. I will cherish the memories of uncle Bob that God has blessed me with. Aunt Pat and family, the best thing I can share with you is that when my dad died, God was my strength and gave me the peace that I so needed. We love you and prays from all over are praying for you. Love, Jim & Pat & family

Also, if you haven’t seen it yet, please see my blog entry from earlier in the week.