To start, we grew up in North Olean and our Stavish family was literally “attached” to the Sassone family (sharing a duplex) on Oak Street. We were able to walk everywhere in the neighborhood, especially to Transfiguration Church, where we saw everyone weekly. Mr. Sassone (Bob) always, and I mean always, use to stand outside after Mass and greet EVERYONE… until he was the last one left. He specifically use to call out my name… “Hello Paula” in his distinctive, raspy high-pitched voice (mimicking me as a young girl) to get my attention. He greeted me this way (my entire life) whenever he saw me—right up to the last time I visited with him at 89 years old. He would always ask me in Polish, “Jak się masz?” (How are you?) and I would smile as a child and say, “Dobrze, dziękuję“ (Fine, thank you), which I learned from my Mother, Josephine. I will never forget his big hugs, attention to everyone and kindness—all wrapped into one incredibly heart-warming man! He was bigger than life and always happily surrounded by people. I will forever hear his “raspy voice” calling my name… and smile when I think of him. “May you be at peace and walk amongst the angels in Heaven, Mr. Sassone—Until we meet again!”
Paula, I just found this note….so beautiful. I can tell you one thing for certain, Dad loved you like family. He really enjoyed you because of the happiness you brought out in him, you brought sunshine to Dad. And yes, your “raspy voice” was the only voice he ever imitated. Whenever Dad ran into you in town, or at our church, he made a call to tell me. Thank you for this note, it was a total surprise. Dad really loved you and enjoyed your company Paula.
