Ron Evangelista Relation to Deceased: friend John (although that feels a bit uncomfortable calling him by his first name because he was always “Chief” to me) was simply a good man. As a young recruit police officer I admired him and was proud that an Italian American was able to rise through the ranks because of his accomplishments. He inspired me. He always treated me with respect and kindness. I must admit I thought it was a bit strange for an officer to stay on the job for as long as he did (38 years). I often asked myself ‘why would anyone stay this long when he could retire after 20 years?”. I never understood that, until I retired after serving more than 40 years. Now I understand. That was one of the lessons that I learned from the Chief. Find what you like to do, do it well and enjoy it. And he did just that. I am proud to say that I worked for him and had the honor of representing him as the Rochester Police Locust Club President (1981-2008). He was truly a “Cops, Cop”. He will be in my prayers. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Charlene A. (Alessi) Liberti Relation to Deceased: friend Janice, what a beautiful tribute to your dad. He was so special. I’m sorry to hear he was ill. I hope his suffering wasn’t long and that his passing was peaceful. The family photos brought back such warm memories. I hope you and your family are well. Please give my love to everyone. I know Donna and your mom were there to greet your dad with open arms. God bless you honey, and give Brian a hug for me. Love Charlene. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Additional Tribute Link: http://youtu.be/Jvb9MyloJc8
Ron Evangelista Relation to Deceased: friend John (although that feels a bit uncomfortable calling him by his first name because he was always “Chief” to me) was simply a good man. As a young recruit police officer I admired him and was proud that an Italian American was able to rise through the ranks because of his accomplishments. He inspired me. He always treated me with respect and kindness. I must admit I thought it was a bit strange for an officer to stay on the job for as long as he did (38 years). I often asked myself ‘why would anyone stay this long when he could retire after 20 years?”. I never understood that, until I retired after serving more than 40 years. Now I understand. That was one of the lessons that I learned from the Chief. Find what you like to do, do it well and enjoy it. And he did just that. I am proud to say that I worked for him and had the honor of representing him as the Rochester Police Locust Club President (1981-2008). He was truly a “Cops, Cop”. He will be in my prayers. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips
Charlene A. (Alessi) Liberti Relation to Deceased: friend Janice, what a beautiful tribute to your dad. He was so special. I’m sorry to hear he was ill. I hope his suffering wasn’t long and that his passing was peaceful. The family photos brought back such warm memories. I hope you and your family are well. Please give my love to everyone. I know Donna and your mom were there to greet your dad with open arms. God bless you honey, and give Brian a hug for me. Love Charlene. The butterfly emerges from its silken shell- Reborn, it arises, no longer bound to earth. Free at last, the butterfly glides to heights unknown before. So do our loved ones find a beautiful release as, earthbound no more, they leave our sight and joyfully rise to a garden of matchless beauty, a place of light and peace. -Evelyn Phillips