Hi, I am Bryan, and I am raising money for my mom to help offset costs for Steve Zaricki's (My Dad) memorial fund. Steve passed away suddenly the day before thanksgiving. His personality and presence were larger than life, and we all thought he would live forever. My mom is in shock and concerned about the mounting costs. He was a great and brilliant man, but he wasn't good at planning for the future financially. He left no life insurance or prepaid death benefits, and everything is coming out of our pockets. Mom also lost his monthly VA disability benefits. She is more than a little concerned about her financial future.

Steve started his life of greatness as a standout Full back with the Ramona High School football team in the late 60's. After graduating, he volunteered for service in the US Army at the height of the Vietnam war. He was eventually deployed as a connoneer, firing 105 howitzers. On April 28, 1968, his unit was overrun, and he suffered burns to over 20% of his head, arms and hands by a flamethrower. He received the Purple Heart and Army Commendation Medal for Heroism for his actions during that event.

After recovering from his wounds, he was honorably discharged and was eventually hired by the Riverside City Fire Department. Steve retired as an engineer after 31 years of service. More than well-liked, he was a true legend in the department. Twenty years after he left, stories about him continue around the kitchen table at every RFD station. He was loved for his intelligence, generosity, kindness, and being a big teddy bear. He was as strong as an ox but as sweet as a kitten.

In retirement, he got heavily involved in multiple fantasy football leagues. He made countless lifelong friendships from there as well.

But first and foremost, he was our dad and our kids' Grandpa WooWoo. He would have given his life and done anything for his family. He absolutely loved and adored his wife, our mom, Barbara. For 43 years, he honored and respected her. Up until the day he died, he told her multiple times a day how much he loved her.

He had an enormous impact on me after coming into our lives when I was 9. He taught me to be honest and hard-working. I followed him into the fire service, and I, too, served 30 years.

He told me many times over the years that all he wanted was a big party when he died. He doesn't want anyone to be sad and wants everyone to drink beer, tell stories, and have a good time. I intend to ensure he gets his wish.

He touched so many lives we have no idea how many people are coming to the memorial. We estimate a minimum of 100, and one of his buddies from RFD said it could be 1000. This is why we want to be able to accommodate all who wish to celebrate his life. If you help with an extra $5 or more for the fund, we would greatly appreciate it. Thanks, and please come to the memorial.

Bryan