My dad Bob Siedlecki was the greatest man I ever knew. And on February 7, he passed away at the age of 80.
Of all the great things he did in his life, the greatest for me was his showing me what a Godly man was. First, he was a man of great love. Growing up and up until his death, I always knew he had my back, that he would always be there for me. He celebrated with me when I succeeded, and carried me when I failed and my body was broken. He showed me what unconditional love truly was.
Second, he was a family man. He always put his family first. Period. There was no sacrifice he would not make for my mom, my sister and me, his grandchildren, his parents.
Third, he was a humble man. Even though he was the owner of a transportation empire, you would never have known it. You could always find him fixing cars next to his mechanics, driving a wheelchair van when someone called in sick, talking with staff who were going through a tough time. And he treated everyone, from the janitor to his leadership team members, with the same respect and kindness.
Fourth, he was a generous man. He was always helping out with his time or money a family member, a friend, or even a stranger who was down on his luck or who just needed some assistance. And in my 54 years, I know of only one time when he did not pick up the check at a restaurant, whether he was having a quiet lunch with me or having brunch with 20 people at a graduation party.
Finally, he was a man of humor. My dad was always telling jokes or playing practical jokes, bringing a smile to the face of everyone he was with. He always told me that everyone had their own struggles and we should try to lighten their load with some good-natured humor. Whenever people saw my dad coming, their spirits would instantly brighten up as they knew they would be laughing in a few seconds.
So Dad, thank you for showing me what a Godly man is. If anyone deserves to be in heaven, it is you. And everyone whom you interacted with knows they are better off for having known you. When my time comes, I look forward to spending eternity with you with our Lord. I love you.
Image: My Dad in the early 1960’s