In Memory of Ricky L. Novotny

People around town are asking about you Ricky. As you know the Post Office is the center of activity for a town this size, and me being a mail carrier for years peaks people’s curiosity even more. They all heard the sirens that morning. When word got out that it was Lewie Rakosnik’s place, people really swarmed the Post Office to find out more. Apparently, they had a ‘Life Flight’ helicopter waiting for you south of town to rush you to Lincoln if need be. Now as we both know – that wasn’t necessary.
People ask me if I plan to stay here now. Well, mom and dad moved us here to Wilber in 1966 from the farm in rural Pawnee County. They wanted us kids to grow up in a Czech community. They bought this ‘house on the hill’ from a widow woman, along with most of her antique furniture. The house has been in the Rakosnik name ever since. I tell people that it’s unlikely I ever leave, especially now that you’re gone. I’ve had too many ‘loved ones’ take their last breath here; both my parents, and now you. So here is probably where I will die as well. Until next time….