On Wednesday August 6th, my family received the dreaded call sharing the news that my father, Ryszard Bartelmus, had passed away. Though he struggled with his health in many ways, especially recently, he spent his last few years in Uganda, a place he treasured deeply.

He was an eccentric person with a unique fashion sense, sense of humor, and the master of MacGyvering anything with a roll of duct tape. He taught me, my brothers and my sister how to be resourceful and to not take ourselves too seriously.

My father wasn't one to share much about his health, even after my prying on many phone calls, so it came as a shock to know just how sick he was in his final months, having been consistently in and out of the hospital. On August 6th, he finally succumbed to GI failure on the way to the hospital.

With my late father having passed overseas and with few resources, it has been a challenge navigating the post mortem arrangements - mentally, emotionally, logistically, and financially.

I have an extremely difficult time asking for help, especially in this way, so I'm appreciative of any amount that will help lay my father to rest. We are seeking a cremation ceremony abroad with transport of his cremains back to the US.

Thank you so much for your time and consideration. Any support that you can provide is greatly appreciated.

Warmly,

Zora