Condolences for
Richard J. Dudek Sr.

Loretta and Family we are at a loss for words at the suddeness of Rich's passing. We cannot begin to express how sorry we are and how much we will miss Rich. I can't imagine what you are feeling now but I know you know Rich is with our heavenly Father and hopefully he is having a beer with Franny and Keith. I wish we could have gotten up there for the funeral but things just would not work out. You and the family will be in our thoughts and prayers as they always are but especially now. We will carry Rich in our hearts forever. Love and Prayers Don & Kath &

Dear Mrs Dudek & Family, I was sorry to read of Mr Dudek's passing.You may not remember me,I went to school with Loretta at St Ephrems until your family moved to Holland. Since then I had the pleasure of dealing with Mr Dudek at Fred Beans when he use to bring a Bronco in for service and we would talk about the family. I also crossed paths with Colleen when she worked at First Nat Bank of Newtown back in the 90's.People come into our lives for a reason and many times we don't know why. Know that all the experiences with your family however breif managed to stick in my memory.I learned of your loss quite by accident but I'm glad to have been able to send this message to you and your family.Know that he is home with our Lord and you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers in this time of sorrow.God Bless

Dear Loretta and Family, we were so sorry and saddened when we heard of Rich's passing. Rich was truly a good man and friend. We pray for you and your family in this very difficult time.

Loretta & Family,

I am so very sorry and very sad to hear the news of Rich’s passing. It has brought forth a flood of memories and emotions for me since I heard the news, and has occupied much of my thought for the last couple of days. My sympathy goes out to you at this most vulnerable time. May you find peace and comfort over the next days, weeks and months. As some say, you never really heal, but rather, you learn how to cope with the tragedy.
Loretta, I can only imagine how alone, hopeless and betrayed you must feel right now. Despite the well-meaning words of condolence and consolation, at times like this, no one else can be in your shoes with you. But, others can be your anchor to this world and continuing to survive in it. If there’s one thing I know and remember about Rich, it’s that he was a survivor, and there could be no greater honor to him, then for you to carry on and survive. I know that’s what he would want, and I know you know that’s what he would want you to do. You must continue your treatments. Rich may be gone physically and materially, but he will always be with you, with all of you and with all of us in our hearts and in our minds. Death cannot take that from any us, and most of all, it cannot take it from you, Loretta. He’s with you, always, so long as you believe that deeply enough.
Loretta, as disoriented and overwhelmed as you may feel right now, please understand that your grief is like a series of waves. I know it probably feels like you are drowning as one wave after another washes over you, and that’s why it’s important to embrace those around you who love you so dearly….your wonderful children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and loyal friends. They are there to help you keep your head above the water line…..to keep you from falling into that abyss. Yes, you must feel these feelings of grief, but also, you must trust and accept the graciousness of those who can see what you cannot see right now. They will help guide you to dry land, and once you regain your balance, you will feel joy again…..for you, and for Rich. It’s what he would want. You can make it through this. You, like Rich, are a survivor.

With much love,

Mike Dudek

Loretta, We were sorry to hear that Rich has passed on. Our prayers will be with you and your family. God Bless all of you.