TRAGEDY MEETS CHARITY

Fr. Paul of Graymoor Assembly #2446 – Cary / Apex, NC 

Shortly after 1:00 PM on February 8, 2021, members of Assembly #2446 learned of the passing earlier that morning of Sir Knight and Past Faithful Navigator, Gary Lazetera. He had been dealing with some health issues, but his passing was still quite unexpected. Over the next 24-hours or so, after taking care of the most urgent aspects of her spouse’s passing, PFN Gary’s wife Eileen was able to meet with friends - another Sir Knight and his wife.

Beyond the shock and sadness, fear and anxiety were of even greater concern to her because her needs went beyond the caring, consolation that she was receiving. Having no family to turn to for help, her reality was that she was not prepared financially for funeral expenses, let alone any burial expenses. Charity is certainly nothing new to the Knights of Columbus, but this was a significant and urgent challenge.

Graces flowed in the forms of financial assistance from several brother Knights, care, guidance and assistance from the pastor and staff at St. Michael the Archangel parish, and most especially through a local charitable organization called St. Lawrence’s Treasure. Started in 2017 by assembly member and recently ordained Deacon Dave Wulff, this Charity was essential in meeting the needs at hand. In short, through St. Lawrence’s Treasure, the funeral home cremation costs (required up front), and a niche in the church columbarium were covered so that a funeral mass could be scheduled in a timely manner. The funeral mass was attended by many knights and spouses (including Color Corps) who helped provide a proper farewell for a brother knight.

Can Lightning Strike Twice? Tragedy Meets Charity Part 2

Just fourteen days after the passing of PFN Gary Lazetera and only four days after his funeral on February 18, 2021, his surviving spouse Eileen also died. Assembly #2446 members were faced with another disheartening loss. Eileen Lazetera was a strong woman, always supporting her husband throughout their days together. At Gary’s funeral, she looked a little thinner, and a bit more fatigued from life’s journey over the previous two weeks without him. Perhaps the toll on her was too great, but we have faith in the Lord’s plan.

Once again, the need for help was presented, and that need was met with the same response. The charity of Brother Knights, friends, St. Michael the Archangel Church and the Charitable Organization, St. Lawrence’s Treasure provided that help to cover needed funeral costs.

Eileen’s funeral Mass was attended by many knights and their spouses, some of her friends and co-workers, too. Another beautiful funeral Mass and upbeat, heartfelt words spoken about Eileen and her kind and engaging spirit. Graces flowed again. Tears flowed again. Charity prevailed again.

Rest in Peace, Eileen.