Darlene C. Stytz

Mom’s Eulogy What can I say about Mom? She was a unique person; tomboy and glamour girl, athlete and music lover. But most importantly, she was always there providing love and support and, sometimes, a smack with a wooden spoon. I remember when we were younger and Mom playing baseball with us. Or telling us how, as a little girl, breaking her nose sledding and getting into trouble fighting with boys in school. Then she would tell us of her high school parties listening and dancing to the Big Bands; Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey and Glenn Miller. But don’t forget Frank Sinatra, a lifetime favorite. Mom had the courage of a lioness. I remember one time there was a fire in the attic. We were small and very scared. Mom went into the attic, pulled out a clothes basket that had caught fire from the light bulb and threw it out into the yard. I can still see her holding a flaming basket ready to do what had to be done to save her children and her home. Mom had a love for life. I remember when all of us went to Las Vegas. She was so happy and thrilled that she told everyone she knew and didn’t know, how great her kids were to think of her. Mom was an old “Vegas” hand and had been there before but this was special because it was family. I remember her calling me over to tell me the machine was broken because it didn’t pay out when she put her money in. Ma, you don’t win every time. So she strolled off in search of a better machine. When I went to go and find her, I saw her talking to a gentleman I didn’t know but did look vaguely familiar. As I approached, I couldn’t have been more shocked; not only was mom talking about boxing but she was talking about boxing with Floyd Patterson, the onetime heavyweight champion. It seems there was a sport convention in town and he was there signing autographs. Mom recognized him. Like I said; tomboy and glamour girl. In the last few months, Mom’s health started to decline and a lot of the zest for life was fading away. But she will always be with us and the lessons and values she taught us have been passed on to our children; love of God, love of life and always seeing things in a positive light. And as mom used to say, go have fun but be good.

Darlene C. Stytz

May 8, 2013