My dearest Uncle Frank – you have always held a very special place in my heart and I will miss you so much.  My favourite photo of you was as godfather at my baptism when I was just a couple of weeks old. You looked so happy and handsome in your army uniform, sitting with Aunt Ann on my parent’s couch (which was covered with clear plastic to protect it; as was done so often back then!).

I remember visiting you at your home on Pillette Road just a few doors down from Mamicka & Opko – then you moved just two blocks away from us and we then shared so many special times together.  You worked long hours especially with your daily commute to the U.S., but somehow our families spent a lot of time together creating special memories and bonds.

You were the one that taught me how to ride a two wheel bike; taking me out to the parking lot at Riverside High School on a weekend when it was empty.  I have fond memories of you and my Dad taking us kids to Riverside Arena for group skating lessons in the winter.  Our families always made homemade Slovak sausage together on the U.S. Thanksgiving weekend  - I am sure you would have much rather had some quiet time on your long weekend off work! 

In the summer on Sundays our families would often go to Holiday Beach for a day of swimming and BBQ.  I remember you lifting us up so we could jump into the waves over and over.  You were always in charge of the grill at supper and I remember being the only kid who requested your grilled onions for my burger!  And of course who could forget our camping adventures at Wheatley and Rondeau Parks.  So many simple memories but they always bring a smile to my face when I think of my childhood.   

And then I married and moved out to LaSalle – only to once again have you and Aunt Vivienne move into our neighbourhood and we were living close once again.  Our paths crossed so many times again over the years as we met at church, in the neighbourhood as you visited Vivienne’s daughter Terri and her family who lived just a few doors over, and in our volunteering at Meals on Wheels when I retired. Over the past few years I was glad to see you on Fridays and visit while we were waiting for the ‘meals’ to be ready for delivery.  A couple of times we were even able to go out as a team giving us more time to chat. 

You will be missed dearly but I will always carry these fond memories in my heart.  You have made a difference in my life and I was blessed to have you as my Uncle and Godfather.   

Your loving niece,

Yvonne Deck