Ken's Eulogy for Dad

I have talked to so many people who have expressed how much they liked dad and how wonderful he was.  Well I was lucky enough to have him as my father. Over the years I have been working at the Post Office, so often I get asked, “Are your Cecil’s son” and with great pride I have always been able to say YES I am and then they would tell me how much they liked him, and what he did for them or helped them or hired them or something.  I never had to worry that when I said yes that’s my dad they would say “I have been looking for that son of a gun”.  I have always been so proud to be his son.

Another thing I cherished was knowing that he was there for us…. No matter what he would do anything for his kids his grandkids.  No matter what we needed advice, information, directions, a ride or help because we had a problem, he was there.  The grandkids called on him often, even when Mom and Dad did not think they deserved help from Papa, but they knew Papa does not judge them, he was there for them.  And when you tried to thank him or recognize him for what he did all you got was…. yea yea…

But the most important gift he provided me was a realization of what is important in life.  I am turning 49 next week and as a result I have been doing some serious soul searching over the last few months.  What have I done with my life? What have I accomplished? I have a good job and a nice family but have I done anything outstanding?  I don’t have a big house and cars.

And after a while I realized the most successful man I know has none of that either.  My dad has served the Lord, his church, his family, and his community selflessly and tirelessly and he is the richest person I know.  He is surrounded by so many good friends, is looked up to by so many people and was genuinely happy doing what he does.  That is what is important in life and if I can be half as good at it as my dad I will be content with my life.  This is the message I hope to pass on to my children, if you miss your papa, try and be more like him and it will make for a very happy life.

My final thought is that rather than mourn his death, we should celebrate his life.

--  Ken Ruckart