March 25, 1932 - February 16, 2006
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Rocky, but with immense gratitude for the privilege of learning from a man who lived his life with Grace, dignity, strength, gentleness, unselfishness and generosity. Rocky was born in Oswiecim, Poland and orphaned at a very young age. He came to Canada alone, but left this earth leaving a huge family and countless admirers. He will be dearly missed by his devoted friend and wife. Leslie Rakoczy, his daughters: Jane (Rick), Leanne (Ron), sons: Brad (Val), Mark (Janice), stepson: Dan (Sunshine), and stepdaughter: Jana (Tony). Grandchidlren: Chrystal (Kolyn), Sarah (Tony), Scott, Matthew (Kywana), Reace, Olivia, Hayden, Jaqi, Jim, Andrew, Brie, Pierce, Jessica, Ashley, Celeste, Kim, Rhonda and Marla. Great grandchildren: Brody, Kaleela, Isabel, Taaylor, Jacob, Kieran and Kaleigh. Also mother and father-in-law: Bill and Doreene Brown and the Wright families. Predeceased by his family from Poland and his first wife, Betty Rakoczy. Rocky worked for many years at Chemainus Mill as a pipe fitter/plumber, then enjoyed designing and building custom homes. We are all changed for the better for having known him as he has encouraged and challenged us to aspire to new heights of character by his example. He truly was a man of God and he knew he could trust in Jesus for everything. We would like to thank his many Doctors and office and hospital staff. We would like to say a special thank you to the Specialists: Dr. Gaylene Hargrove, Dr. Yvorchuk, and Dr. Kinahan, all of Victoria. As well as Dr. John Cline, who, with Chelation treatments gave Rocky an extra 22 years of life. Rocky's children and grand children would like to sincerely thank Leslie for all the love and devotion she extended to their Dad and Papa. She made him happy in life, tenderly cared for him, never leaving his side and cradling him in her arms as he left this earth to be with his Lord and Savior. Your faith in Jesus is an inspiration to us all and we are forever grateful. Funeral will be held at Bethel Tabernacle in Ladysmith on Wednesday, February 22, 2006 at 3:00 pm. Reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kidney Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation or the charity of your choice. Many thanks to Telford Nault at Telford's Mid-Island Memorial Service.