Letter from John Bergstrom
Rick, you lived life as an ideal example for all of us. Loving, caring, empathetic, understanding, passionate, honest, and true to your feelings.
All of us who knew you felt all of these things from you at one time or another. They were in your looks, expressions, your smiles, and sometimes in your tears……. …your total understanding and your complete acceptance. I want you to know that your life was such a true blessing to all of us who are so fortunate to just have known you.
No one knows this better than the truest love of your life….Jannelle. It was always such a joy to me and brought so much happiness when I saw you two together……or whenever you spoke of her to me. All of the love you possess would just radiate and pour over to Jannelle during that most blessed time you both had together. I am so very, very happy for those years you both had here together. It made life complete for you Rick!
Rick, didn’t we always both enjoy the fond reminiscing of our lifelong friendship. I don’t believe I could have been more than 5 or 6 when I would throw pebbles up to your second story bedroom window trying to wake you….”Bicky, come out and play.” I can’t believe it took me that long to get my “R’s” out! I am sending this picture of the two of us sitting on your picnic bench back then.
The alleyway behind both our homes was our playground. We used to love to hide “very important things” in the small drain pipes coming out of the neighbors retaining walls.
It was so very cool to ride our bikes up & down that alley, and in & out of the only two walkways that lead from the alley into the neighbors’ driveways, and then out to the street in front of their homes. That walk way was so narrow, we thought we had to be the best bicycle riders to navigate them at such top speeds.
Then there was the infamous “Daredevils Club”. Of course, you and I were the only two members! I recall that some of our stunts did cause our mothers, Marion & Julia, to come to our rescue. My winning stunt did bring my mother to my rescue that day!
Of course, you took that Dare Devil Medal back not too many years ago at the ripe age of ‘60 something’ when I heard of your great bungee jump off of a plank in some faraway jungle!! Talk about a very trusting guy – you had it all brother.
Then there was the time my father Curly, took your dad, Al, along with you and me to his Swedish Club in Rockford. Of course, everyone introduced themselves as Mr. Johnson, Mr. Olson, Mr. Anderson……You just smiled and replied “Glad to meet you, I’m Rick Merason!” Yep - You really did!!! They’d just smile, nod and seemingly never paid any attention to neither that name nor that outstanding Sicilian complexion of yours!!
I recall the great visits to Denver. I especially have fond memories of our great ski trip to Vail, , Aspen, and Snowmass. Our private ski lesson allowed me to almost keep up with you. Then at the end, we relaxed in the sulfur pool at Glenwood Springs. See the picture I included.
We know your love of food and what a great cook you’ve been. Debra and I especially remember enjoying your Denver home and the absolutely outstanding Tuna Steak you grilled for us. You taught us the very best technique that I still try my best to duplicate while reminiscing of that evening together.
Good Lord, all I remember for the most part is all the fun and enjoyment we had together. Of course, we shared all the heartaches & sorrows that life seems to bring as well. We always knew in our individual journeys through life that we were both just a telephone call a way…….no matter what!
Well brother, I am so glad for you and your life….yes I say brother because we know we were much more than just lifelong friends. . . . Say, do you remember when we were maybe 8 years old in that same alleyway. We pricked our fingers, drew blood, put them together, and bonded to be blood brothers forever.
So Rick, I really miss you and our times together. But, I know you are with me now this day…just as you are and always will be with Janelle, her family, and Chris, your dearest brother, as well as your worldwide friends. Yes, you will be with us forever and ever. I do love you so very much Rick Mera. May God bless you and Jannelle on this very special day.