FISHING

7.29.10

The best fisherman on the campground, Ken Bryson, showed Ben and Jon how to catch Stripers. Then we ate them for dinner!

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In Memory of Edward Seik

1934 - 2010

Reverend Luciotti’s meditation from Edward Seik’s service

Ecclesiastes: 2: 24-25

‘There is nothing better for a man than that he should eat and drink, and find enjoyment in his labor. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God; for apart from God who can eat or who can have enjoyment. “ & 9:9-10 “Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of your life, because that is man’s portion. And, whatever you hand finds to do, do it with your whole heart.”

These versus each us to not only learn to accept life on its terms, but, as well, to seek to make the most of every opportunity and circumstance. Whether positive or difficult opportunities exist to invest oneself fully and enjoy life in all ways.

These versus well describe the life of Edward Seik, Sr. For in all of his ways and throughout his days, Edward sought to live life fully and to share of himself completely. Thus, we gather today to celebrate with thanksgiving and to commend to God’s eternal care the spirit of Edward Seik, Sr.

Edward was born in Western PA. Following High school he entered the US Air Force, serving from 1954-1958 and was stationed in Greenland. Following his tour of duty, Edward returned home and for a while was involved in farming. He then began a career with the 84 Lumber Company, becoming a manager for that company. Edward then became a homebuilder and owner of Sewalt Homes, a successful home building firm. He was a dedicated worker and is remembered for the great pride he demonstrated in producing quality homes. Additionally, he was always an active participant in the Home Builders Association. Edward was also an accomplished wood worker and greatly enjoyed the hours he spent in his wood shop turning out fine hand crafted projects.

Edward was married for 42 years to Beverly with who he established his first home and together they raised their first three children. They watched them grow, celebrating their accomplishment and begin their families. In this, Edward was a good family man, making certain care for his family came first. He was pleased to have been able to coach little league for his sons during the years they played baseball.

And, Edward loved and enjoyed his grandchildren, finding joy and pride in watching them grow.

Beverly’s passing came much earlier than one would hope for in life, Yet, Edward knew and understood that life does go on.

He continued active in his work, was a member of the Masonic order, Robert Burns Lodge #468 F & AM, a Moose General Assembly member and was active in the American Legion Post 1001 in Linglestown. He was always an avid hunter and fisherman who thoroughly enjoyed camping in the out of doors, A quiet, but deep in thought man in many ways, Edward nonetheless easily made friends, many of whom were life long. His was easy company to keep and one could always count on the fact that Edward would be among the first to offer a helping hand and give you the shirt off his back.

Edward then met June and they married finding together that the joy of love’s autumn can be as rich and fulfilling as its springtime. Both, being widowers, proved scriptures teaching that God Constantly calls us from loneliness to companionship. They thoroughly enjoyed their home east of Dillsburg, their site at Raystown Lake, and the winters spend in Arizona, where they also established a home. Together they enjoyed the warm and rich friendships of many, with whom they shared mutual interests. And, together Edward and June brought tow families together.

They shared the joys and sorrows that come with life, but in all things rejoiced in the richness of God’s gift of love. As, I watched family and friends gather to support Edward and each other during his illness, it is clear that Edward and June created warm and rich memories together and for their families. May those memories not only bring you comfort at this time, but may they as well always bring a smile to your face whenever you think of Edward.

The Psalmist asks us to consider, “What is the measure of one’s days?” Edwards’ choices in how to live answered the question thusly, To enjoy ones days, for he understood them to be God’s gift; to love and care for family; to work hard and leave his corner of the world a better place than he found it and to walk humbly before God.

In all these things, Edward Seik, Sr. has heard the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant, welcome home.”