My Mom’s Legacy… Diana Greguska

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My mom's legacy ~ Diana Greguska! NeedEncouragement.comPlease contact us if you have questions or if you need some encouragement.

My mom’s legacy is something that will forever inspire and encourage me. She had a huge heart, always ready to lend a helping hand and offer support to those in need. Her great sense of humor brightened up our lives, bringing laughter and joy into even the simplest of moments. Growing up in a big Italian family, my mom carried with her the strength and determination that comes from being the youngest among eight siblings. This same spirit she passed on to me, her youngest Italian boyAs a mother, she went above and beyond for me. Her love knew no bounds as she tirelessly nurtured me through my journey of growth. I took care of my mom the last 8 years of her life, she did not want to go into a nursing home, so I made sure that would not happen. Mom was born and raised Catholic, yet she like to come with me to Elmbrook church on Sundays as long as I would take her to her Catholic church (St. Gregory’s)

Mom believed in the value of education and she encouraged me in my studies; her encouragement pushed me to get passing grades and strive for success, maybe not so much in school, but a lot on the basketball court. And oh, how proud she was! Whether it was at my basketball games or any other endeavor I pursued, her voice would rise above the rest of the crowd cheering me on passionately. But more than just lessons about academics or sportsmanship, my mom taught me invaluable life skills that I still carry with thankfulness today. From simple acts of kindness towards others to demonstrating empathy and compassion, these were qualities deeply ingrained within her character that she made sure to pass down to me. Through thick and thin, we stood by each other’s side as best friends do – sharing secrets, dreams, and disappointments – creating an unbreakable bond that nothing could sever. My mom was not only one of my best friends ever but someone who loved me and would do almost anything in the world for me. Mom was the youngest of 8 Italian siblings and had four children of her own, including me. I loved and respected her very much and took care of her for the last eight years of her life. ~ Bill Greguska

Revelation 21:4 ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

 

 

 

A Few Special Last Words My Mom Shared That She Wanted Me To Record…

I took care of her the last 8 years of her life, until she died in 2014 at the age of 93. I cherish these word, and pray your mom or dad, will say the same about you. 

Matthew 19:19  “honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.”

 

 


 

 

Ten Ways To Discover Encouragement For Yourself:

  1. Encouragement for Relationships
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  9. Encouragement from a Free Bible
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Find out what God’s Word says about the situation you are in, and what to do about it ~ click here.

 


 

 


My Mother (Diana Greguska) Was An Amazing Woman!


 

My Mom Took Care Of Me When I Was Growing Up…

The Death Of My Mom~ Diana Greguska-Busalacchi In Honor Of Her Life! NeedEncouragement.com

Mom loved watching her Milwaukee Brewers play baseball.

I Took Care Of My Mom From 2006 to 2014

Ephesians 6:1 Children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.
I felt that it only fitted that I helped take care of my mom since she cared for me when I was young and had problems with drugs and alcohol in my teens and twenties. It was not like I was forced to take care of my mom or dad when he was alive; it was more out of gratitude and respect for my parents. I would say that children listen less to their parents because parents do not demand it, and our society has weakened the family structure.
Is your mom a strong person? My mom was always the go-getter kind of person. Mom had much energy and drive that was harnessed with determination. She grew up that way, and when my dad was alive, she had to be that way since most of the responsibility for everything fell on her shoulders. Many years later, after Dad died, Mom remarried and took care of my stepdad at the end of his life. My mom raised me and loved me despite all the problems I dragged her through.

Parents Do Not Always Stay Young!

Do you think children listen to their parents as they ought to? With help from the family and other resources, Mom took care of my dad in the last years of his life when he had Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. I felt great helping my dad; I recall feeding him, washing him, and spending time with him. His memory was not suitable for recent things, but he was right in with the conversation when I talked about the fur business or Red Star Yeast. It is too bad that I had to get old to realize how good of a man my dad was. I can not always say that I obeyed my parents because I often disobeyed them; most of the time, it had to do with drugs and alcohol. Besides that time of my life, I obeyed my parents pretty well.

When my mom retired, she got herself busy doing modeling jobs, and showing off dresses, she got herself in the Milwaukee Journal, and also a TV commercial. One thing I thought was pretty interesting/weird, was the job she got doing a Violent Femme’s YouTube video. (she was the lady in the first serene with the curlers in her hair) I am warning you, it is a little different, but clever nonetheless

After she retired, she got busy doing some modeling as a hobby that she loved doing. She modeled clothes and even did many interesting things such as doing a rock video…

Click Here to view

(She was the one at the beginning of the video getting her hair done). My mom was a go-getter with much wisdom, love, and strength). Mom was a very unique and special person and I am thankful for God putting her in my life!

 


My Mom Got A Part On Violent Femmes

(1st woman in the video) Mom was a real go-getter!


 

 

 

 

My mom and dad were a great team, and they loved one another! NeedEncouragement.com

My mom and dad when they were in about their 50’s

 

A Little Bit About My Mom And Dad!

My dad was a Czechoslovakian who made a living as a furrier for many years. Later he worked in a yeast factory called Red Star Yeast Universal Foods. My mother, Diana, is a northern Italian with eight brothers and sisters. My mom and dad were a great team and loved one another! Mom loved her family!
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future.” So I say God, without a doubt, has a plan for everyone! Our job is to find out what it is!

How Important Is Work In A Person’s Life?

Dad worked hard, and I can remember clearly when he lay down on the couch before supper because he was so tired from working in the factory. He would take his glasses off and sleep for 15 minutes, which was all he needed. We were not rich, but we were not in need.
My parents sacrificed a lot and worked hard to have somewhat of the American dream; sometimes, I wished we all could have loved one another more and had less and not vice versa. Both of my parents lived through the Great Depression and World War II. They went through many hard times, as others in their era did, but they made it. Mom and Dad instilled in me a good work ethic. In 1989, I worked for four years at Elmbrook Church in the custodial maintenance department. After that, in 1994, I worked ten years building wheelchair ramps for the elderly and disabled in the Milwaukee / Waukesha, WI area for a ministry called “Faith Indeed.” I loved my work and did my best every day. I went out of my way to do it well when I did a job, as my dad taught me while growing up. Idle hands are a tool of the devil, so I believe that work is essential to living a healthy life.

 

Below Are Some Things I Wrote After My Mom Died

In Honor Of Her Life!

I cared for my mom for the last eight years of her life, which was only suitable for how much she helped me while I had problems with drugs, alcohol, and other issues while growing up. With the realization that mom would not live forever here on earth, in knowing that I was preparing ahead of time, one thing that I was so thankful that I did, was a photovoice recorder in which she recorded herself saying, “You’re a good son.” It has become a constant reminder of how much my mom loved me and how much I loved my mom.

Even Though Mom Had Medical Issues

Issues such as diabetes, asthma, and a heart condition. She was still very alert mentally and managed to get around physically despite some pain in her knees and breathing.
My mom had no real fear of death, partly because she had been in physical pain for many years but could still enjoy her life.
Mom did fear going into a nursing home, so I promised her that I would not put her into a nursing home, and I kept my word.

Mom Will Be Missed By Many, Especially Me!

I have mentioned all this mainly because each death may be similar. But at the same time, it is very different in how those left behind deal with their emotions of the loss.
 Here are some of my notes that I jotted down just after my mother said her last goodbye on the phone on December 31, 2014. ~ Bill Greguska

Death Is Inevitable, Do You Know Where You Are Going?


 

 

moms-90th-birthday-party- NeedEncouragement.com

My Mom’s 90th birthday celebration with my sisters and brother

 

December 31, 2014

It Was A Bit Of A Shock To Me

My Mom died at about 7:30 p.m. in the hospital where my cousins Erica and Mike were with me. I was close to my mom my entire life; I took care of her during the last eight years of her life. It is just over 24 hours ago now, and it still has not hit me that she is dead.
That is why I say how people react to death is not the same in every situation. I loved my mother very much, so this loss has not hit me hard. When I saw her in the hospital, I seemed to be in denial of her death, and I think I am still in denial. When I was walking down the hospital hallway to her room, a wave came over me, and I started to whimper a couple of times because I knew her time might be near.

My Mom Was A Very Strong Lady

She was 93 years old, and she had a zest for life, she was a very strong-minded yet loving mother. She had a very contagious sense of humor, which were a few things I loved about her.
The bottom line is there is no one particular way to react to the death of a loved one, so if this is the case with you, be kind to yourself and stay connected with people like I am with my cousins and some friends. I am sure the feelings of the loss of my mom will probably be with me forever. Mom and I were so very close my entire life. She was there for me when I needed her through my hard times in life, and I was there for her needs in her last years. I will update this story as time goes on. ~ Bill Greguska

Mom and my sister Pat and me 2008! NeedEncouragement.com

My mom, sister Pat, and myself.

 

January 2, 2015

My Sister Pat And Me

We went to the funeral home together to make all the funeral arrangements. I still am not feeling too good because of my cold, but doing 40% better sure helps.
During our planning and talking, I told (Jeff, the funeral home director) that my mom and I had sung a song together each night for about the last eight years now as I put her to sleep each night.

The Song Was A Laurence Welch Song

The song sung at the end of each Lawrence Welch show mom always loved to watch. Then in the funeral director’s office, I started to sing that song I always used to sing at night with my mom, but this time to my sister Pat and Jeff, the director. Then suddenly, the floodgates opened up, and I began to sob very hard.
A few moments later, I  started up again, which was how God intended it for me. All those 32 hours without a tear, I think God was carrying me through the footprints in the sand. ~ Bill Greguska

 

 

 

Cousin Joe and mom and me enjoying one of her favorite things, a Brewers game! NeedEncouragement.com

Cousin Joe Bova, Mom, and I enjoy Brewer’s game, one of her favorite things!

 

January 7, 2015

Today Was The Last Step In Putting My Mom To Rest!

My tears the past few days have flowed like waves of sadness. My sister Pat and I and cousin Joe had a short service with Dan, the funeral director.
When we said the Our Father, I noticed that it brought me to tears because it was the prayer Mom and I said to God with each other each night before bed. Surprisingly, I felt stronger than I figured that I might be having to say goodbye to Mom for the last time in person. I decided to put something personal between Mom and myself in the coffin, one of the business cards she helped me design for NeedEncouragement.com. After the funeral, I took my sister out to eat lunch at Andreas Restaurant, and then we went to Mom’s house and wrote out many thank you cards to those who helped us the last few days and years.

It almost Feels Like I Am In Denial Or Shock.

It is hard to believe she is gone. The house is so much quieter compared to when she was still alive. My mom never talked about a fear of death, and I did speak to her about heaven and what God wanted us to do to be with him.
Mom loved to read Bible verses with me, which I enjoyed doing with her. Now I will open a new chapter in my life; after the one I never got too close to, the divorce in 2007 was also very devastating. I remember so many good memories with my mom’s funeral compared to the divorce, where most things were hurtful and painful in a different way.

A Little Help From Friends

I handled my mom pretty well, considering she was my best friend. I got much help from Pastor Mark Mallwitz, Ron and Sue Sauer and their mom, cousins Mike and Erica, my sister Pat, Kevin Reddy, and the rest of my friends and relatives, who all encouraged and comforted me with emails, phone calls, cards, and most important prayers. ~ Bill Greguska

A Tribute To My Italian Mother Diana Greguska


March 23, 2015

It Has Been A Couple Of Months Now

Since mom passed away, the house has been much quieter and more empty since she lived with me. Not a scary empty but empty with peace knowing I did everything to keep her out of a nursing home. That was one of her biggest fears and a personal wish she made of me years ago, which I was determined to keep.
It is hard to deal with my mom’s death and all the emotions and feelings that go with it. On the other hand, I no longer, after eight years, need to take care of her medication, blood pressure readings, insulin testing, exercises, cooking for her, cleaning up, driving her to many appointments plus church, out to eat, movies, walks to Mc Donald’s, etc.

I Was Thankful I Could Honor My Mother And Father

I enjoyed taking care of my mom (and my dad when he was alive). One thing that always kept me going when things got a little tricky managing all I had to do to take care of her was the scripture about honoring my mother and father, Ephesians 6:2-3. I want to share a video about three reasons my mom reminds me of Jesus.

The Caregivers Were Very Helpful To Mom

God provided help from Visiting Angels and another group called At Home Loving Care. Without these ladies to help me, I would not have been able to go to my part-time job, work out to take care of myself, or do anything else social. Last two years, I got 2-4 hours of help, which was enough to get out a little. Mom could be home alone for about an hour since she had her TV to watch her Brewers games and talk shows like Steve Harvey and Ellen.
We had a fantastic group of gals who helped out with Mom for a couple of hours at a time. Marva was a gal that I found through a mutual friend Jeanie. Mechelle was another one of my mom’s favorite gals. All the ladies were beneficial to keeping mom out of a nursing home at her age; these women were a significant help in accomplishing that goal that my mom and I had set up many years ago.

After Things Start Settling Down

I have been busy going through the house, sorting things to keep and give away. I have looked through pictures and cards that were a beautiful reminder of her entire life in the paI have a sense of peace, but at the same time, I feel a significant loss and loneliness that I am sure will subside in time will always be there to a degree.
I can sense that Mom is not here anymore, although I am so thankful that I made a voice picture recording of Mom saying something she always told me, “You’re a good son.” That recording is one of my most prized memories of my mom. (you might want to do the same with your elderly parents or loved ones). Every night, I hear Mom’s voice when I turn off the living room lights, which activates her voice recording! A beautiful reminder of Mom before I go to sleep.

Words Of Comfort From Pastor Ron Sauer

Pastor Ron Sauer told me on the phone that God knew my mom well before I did, and God wanted to take her home, so in the understanding of that, I feel that I can let go and hold on to all the priceless memories. Death was the last goodbye to my mother earlier on the phone on her previous day. Her last words to me were the words she always said to me on the phone after we talked that afternoon: “I Love You!” ~ Bill Greguska.


 

 

 

Guadagni 1-86 These are my aunts and uncles on my mom's side of the family with their husbands and wives. NeedEncouragement.com

These are my aunts and uncles on my mom’s side of the family.

 

May 31, 2015

Mom Passed Away Five Months Ago

Life is starting to settle down a little bit. I live in the house she and my dad had built in 1959, the year before I was born.
She put it in her will that I could live here as long as I wanted, with the only condition being that I would take care of the taxes, pay the utilities, and the upkeep.

Mom Had No Real Fear Of Death

She wanted her passing away to be all planned out. She put a lot of time and energy into all the details. No day goes by without thinking of her; it is hard since I have taken care of Mom over the past eight years, mainly caring for her needs.
Those who knew her from Elmbrook Church and other places always reminded me of how amazing a lady she was, and that is so accurate. She treated me better than I probably deserved. That made my sisters a little jealous, which I can understand.

No Fear Of Death, But A Zeal For Life

Mom did not fear death, but she did have a zeal for living. She was always thinking and making plans; you could say that dust never settled on her. She raised four kids, worked full-time, helped my dad in the fur business, and worked at Universal Foods Red Star Yeast for about 20 years.
Mom was so good to me that she wished to stay out of any nursing home. It was my goal that, with God’s help, was achieved. There is something special about a mother and their son, mainly because I was the youngest, I am Italian, and I just got along with and loved my mom so much. I love hearing her say in her talking photo each night when the lights go out, and it says, “You’re a good son.” I miss Mom, and hearing her voice is comforting even though it is only a recording.~ Bill Greguska

 

 


 

July 25, 2015

Mom And Dad’s Anniversary Was On July 21, 1945

They would have remained married for 70 years, but my dad died on October 1, 1995. Time goes on without those we love. I miss my mom and my dad too. My dad was a very kind, patient man who significantly influenced my life regarding working and common sense. I remember both of them, especially her life with me each day since I lived in the house she and my dad built. It is kind of sad knowing that I will never see Mom or Dad here on earth again, yet someday, when I die, I will see them also in heaven.

There Is A Time For Everything

There is a time to live and a time to die. Mom’s time was up, and the Lord even gave her some extra innings since she lived to be 93 years old. I do things or often think because of the direct influence of my mom’s life and how she raised me. I look forward to hearing her voice in heaven, saying to me, “You’re a good son.” Instead of hearing it on the talking photo each night before the lights go out. ~ Bill Greguska


 

 

 

John Wagner and Brian Larson playing Sheep Head with mom and myself. NeedEncouragement.com

John Wagner and Brian Larson played Sheep Head with Mom and me.

September 4, 2015

The Months Are Flying By!

I still think about my mom almost every day in some way or another. I always thank God that He put it in my mind to record Mom’s voice that I hear every night when I turn the lights off in the living room. Mom has genuinely impacted my life, and she will never be forgotten.
Some of her strong points made her who she was. She was firm yet loving, wise, and open to new ideas, and she loved to laugh. I only saw her cry a couple of times in my life. Loyalty was a high priority, and bringing family together was another top priority. Mom was the center of our family that kept us all together. ~ Bill Greguska

January 11, 2016

It Was Mom’s First Anniversary Of Her Death

I am sure she is in heaven, even though she gave me a hard time when I talked to her about the Bible and her need to confess with her mouth and believe in her heart that she would be saved. Being Catholic for 93 years made it hard for her to accept the Protestant way I shared salvation with her.
I know my mom’s heart and love for the Lord to see that she is now in heaven. I look forward to being with her whenever the Lord takes me. Things have settled down in my life, and I still miss Mom! Each night I hear my mom on one of the most valuable things she gave me: a photo recorder that she recorded her voice saying, “You’re a good son.” ~ Bill Greguska

Mom did modeling and advertisements from time to time when she retired. NeedEncouragement.com

Mom did modeling and advertisements from time to time when she retired.

April 16, 2016

I Miss Mom’s Italian Biscotti Cookies

It has been over one year since Mom passed away, but not a day goes by without thinking of her or talking about her to someone who used to know her.
There are so many stories that I can recall about what mom said or did or what she cooked or accomplished in some way or another. I missed her Italian Biscotti this past Christmas, one of our Christmas traditions she and I have had each year since I was a little boy.

This Is The Recipe ~ In The Memory Of My Mom.

 

Biscotti Italian Christmas Cookies 

2 cups of butter (1lb)
5 ½ cups of sugar (cream butter and add together).
In another considerable bowl measure
9 cups of flour
6 teaspoons of baking powder
3 teaspoons of salt
(Sift together dry ingredients very well)
Add 12 eggs, one at a time, into a dry mixture alternately until moist, and then add more dry mixture until all used. Add one teaspoon of anise extract and 4 teaspoons of vanilla. Then add 1 lb of roasted almonds, and mix very thoroughly by hand. Cover everything with a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator overnight.
The next day, put flour on the breadboard, take a handful of the dough, and roll by hand it into the shape of a 16×3 inch long roll. Turn the oven on to 350 degrees and grease three cookie sheets. (Bake two rolls on each cookie sheet at a time)
After they are baked, place them on a cooling rack. Slice them diagonally carefully while warm, about 1 inch wide. Cool thoroughly and put into a gigantic popcorn tin lined with a plastic bag. ~ Bill Greguska

 

 

 

 

After my mom's death, I can still hear my mom saying on a photo recording in the living room, "You're a good son." NeedEncouragement.com

After my mom’s death, I can still hear my mom saying on a photo recording in the living room, “You’re a good son.”

 

July 21, 2016

Today Would Have Been My Mom And Dad’s 71st Anniversary!

That is if they were both still alive. In a way, they both are still alive to me. I think and talk about them both, a little more than my mom, but my dad, too, since he taught me a lot about work and tried to instill the value of integrity in me. 
Each night before I go to bed, I turn off the lights in the living room that automatically starts up my mom’s photo machine, so I hear her say to me, “You’re a Good son.” When I hear her voice and the lights are out, it is almost like she is right there with me for a brief second. It has been a year and a half now, but to me, she still is alive how she taught me certain things about the kitchen, such as cooking and baking. I will never forget the joyful laugh, which was always so contagious. I do miss taking care of her. ~ Bill Greguska

 

Mom and I took walks or rides every day the last 8 years of her life. God has put other's in my life after my mom's death to help take care of. NeedEncouragement.com

Mom and I took walks or rides every day for the last eight years of her life. God has put others in my life after my mom’s death to help take care of me.

 

 

September 23, 2016

It Will Be Two Years That My Mom Passed Away.

I think about her often, yet I have learned a new normal without her.  

She was my best friend because she loved and watched out for me. In the last eight years of her life, I was given a chance to pay her back for all the good she did for me when I was growing up. By no means am I saying that she was perfect, only Jesus Christ is perfect, but I am saying without a doubt or hesitation.
Mom would have done anything for me and my brother Tom and my sisters Pat and Gerri, yet I always knew that I was special to her by how she treated me.  (spoiled me a little).

 


 

December 11, 2016

Mom Did Not Want To Go To Any Nursing Home!

That is how I kept her out of a nursing home, which she genuinely feared. Mom did not fear death at all, but she did have a fear of the nursing home! I realize that other kids love their mom and dad similarly to my mother and father, but I can only speak for myself and know that my mom was the greatest!
She pushed me when I needed pushing, nurtured me when I needed nurturing, and always loved me no matter what I got myself into. One of my fondest memories of my mom was her sense of humor! She always told me that either you can laugh about it, or else you will cry about it! ~ Bill Greguska

 


 

 

 

 

My mom as a little girl with my Nana! my Nana's death was before I was born. NeedEncouragement.com

My mom, when she was a little girl with my Nana! My Nana’s death was before I was born.

 

 

February 8, 2017

It Is Hard To Believe!

It has been over two years now since Mom died. I often think of her since she had significantly impacted my childhood and adult life. Mom lived a good life, and I am thankful I could keep her home and not put her into a nursing home.

We Had To Work Out Some Details 

Others were interested in putting her in a home, but since I loved my mom as I did, she was always good to me while growing up. Granting her wish was not something I had to do much thinking about.
I thank God I was wise enough to record her voice on a photo machine, so now, at night, when I turn off the lights, I hear her voice saying, “You’re a good son!” Her passing away makes me more aware that I will not be alive forever. I have no fear of death because when God calls me, I will be ready. In the meantime, I have more work to do and more people to try to encourage. ~ Bill Greguska

 

 

May 4, 2017

There Is Probably Not A Day That Goes By!

I would honestly say that I think about our talk about my mom daily. That is true because each night, I hear her voice on the photo recorder saying, “You’re a good son!” is the last voice I hear before I go to sleep. I am sure that Mom would be pleased and proud of what I do. Taking care of her for the last eight years of her life was an honor that I am glad I could have. Yes, sometimes it was difficult, but if asked to do it all over again, my answer would be Yes!
Mom truly loved, watched over, and encouraged me in good times and bad. I miss her home cooking, yet she taught me pretty well to cook for myself now. I just wanted to share a few thoughts in honor of my mom! My mom was the best friend I ever had. ~Bill Greguska

After my mom's death, it is hard to do things like making Italian Bisquote Christmas cookies that she and I did almost every year! NeedEncouragement.com

My mom baked Biscotti with me in the kitchen, which she did every Christmas time!!

 

July 8, 2017

Without A Doubt My Mom Was Wonderful!

Overall, Mom was a great person; she was like an anchor in my life that kept me going.
She defended me from my sisters, spoke up for me in school, provided for me, comforted me, and protected me. She chased after neighbor boys who picked on me because I was the youngest in the neighborhood when I was about five years old.
Mom disciplined me pretty well, too, but not enough, she laughed with me and let me tell her anything on my mind, and I mean anything!
After my mom’s death, it was hard to make the Italian Bisquote Christmas cookies that she and I did almost every year!

 


Pastor Ron Sauer and Sue Sauer, and Sue's mom and me. NeedEncouragement.com

My mom never met Ron and Sue Sauer or Sue’s mother, but I know she loved them because of how good they were to me!

 

October 17, 2020

Mom Had Some Special Ways About Herself!

My mom used to say, “There she blows” when I was about to cry when I was depressed so severely when I had a nervous breakdown during my divorce; she played chess with me when I did not seem to have any friends when I was little, she came to all my basketball games in grade school and high school.
Mom used to cook like a gourmet chef and baked like Martha Stuart, she spoiled me a little, but everyone needs a little spoiling once in a while. I am so thankful I can hear her voice when I turn the lights out at night, and her voice recording says, “You’re a good Son” I miss her, but I am glad I had her when she was alive. ~ Bill Greguska
*Pastor Ron Sauer gave me much comfort when my mom died. Even before she died, Sue always shared words of encouragement with me.

This is my mom and dad at St. Matthew's church on their wedding day! NeedEncouragement.com

My Mom and Dad’s Wedding!

January 14, 2018

Been 6 Months Since I Wrote

I still talk about her probably a couple of times a week for some reference or another. When I think of her, I do not feel depressed but blessed to have had a mom as I had in her! December 31, 2017, was the third anniversary of mom’s death. Living in the house she and my dad built helps keep the good memories alive. I have tried to love my children as she loved me, yet I feel I fall a little short because she went above and beyond what I consider a good parent’s responsibility. May she be resting in peace with the Lord Jesus right this minute.

 

 

 

 

Mark Mallwitz and our old Bible study we had for over 25 years. NeedEncouragement.com

Mark and Lisa Mallwitz and many of those in my Bible study were close to my mom.

September 12, 2018

Time Is Flying Bye

The days, weeks, and months are going by now since Mom died on December 31, 2014. My mom is still around because I think and talk about her frequently. I love the plaque that the caregiver company gave me when my mom died. I have it on my garage door, so I see it when I drive the car in the garage, and others can see it too.  It says, “The seeds that mothers plants bloom for a lifetime.”
My daughter Sherry and I talk about my mom almost every time we get together. Sherry loved her grandma very much, and Sherry always used to call my mom “Gorgeous.” I am very thankful that I had mom record her voice on a picture frame recorder, I have it in my bedroom, and when I turn the light off each night, it says. “You are a good son.” She always told me that, and it encouraged me and gave me the strength to keep taking care of her for the last eight years of her life until she died.

Many of my cousins and family! NeedEncouragement.com

Here are some of my cousins, aunts, and sisters. My mom was the best Biscotti maker ever!

December 24, 2018

More About Mom’s Italian Biscotti Cookies!

Since I was old enough to remember, my mom and I have made Italian Biscotti cookies. Since Mom died, I have not made any for the last four years. This year I asked my daughter Sherry to join me in making them. I did not want to do them alone, but Sherry was excited to help me! I was pleased to make the Biscotti’s with Sherry and very thankful that she wanted to help. My grandchildren, Ariana and Justice, helped grease the pans and were a big help.

Mom was great doing the cookies with Sherry, but I must admit that I did not follow the instructions as well as I could have. Thank God that they turned out well. (a grade or two below your Biscotti’s mom) But the bottom line is they were good. It was the first time doing them without you, but we got it done!

 

 


My Mom was a beautiful woman inside and out! NeedEncouragement.com

When she was a young lady, my mom was somewhere around 1940.

April 18, 2019

It Has Happened As I Thought It Would!

I figured that my mom’s memory would not fade at all, and it did not. I talk about my mom every day, I can honestly say. Some kind of reference or memory of what she taught me, or did I regularly share it with others? It is funny how she is involved in so many of my conversations.

Mom was a pillar in my life and has influenced me in many wonderful ways. One of the biggest things she gave me was a wonderful sense of humor and a big loving heart. My siblings might not describe her in the same way, but I would say similarly. Being the last of 4 kids, my mom spoiled me to some degree. She was the youngest of 8 kids and knew how it felt to be the youngest. Mom, you may not be with me on this planet anymore, but I know you are in heaven with the Lord. I miss you, mom!

 

 


Mom and Brewers, one of her favorite places to be! NeedEncouragement.com

Mom and I got on the jumbotron at Miller Park! I took mom to about 2 Brewers games each month for the last 8 years of her life. She was a super big Brewers fan!

February 3, 2020

It has been over five years since my mom died, and I can honestly say that I refer to her in conversations with others each week! She has significantly impacted my life, and I often tell others about her. Now that I work at a hospital delivering food to patients, I see them, and they remind me of my mom. My mom was in and out of the hospital for the last few years of her life somewhat regularly, with minor physical problems magnified by her age, diabetes, asthma, and weight.
Dr. Baugrud took outstanding care of her and gave me beautiful instructions on caring for her. (I remember that even though mom had diabetes and was 90+ years old, her doctor said it was okay to enjoy a tiny bit of ice cream once a week or so) My mom loved food, and the doctor and I worked together to have her enjoy some foods so that she did not have to be on a strict food diet in her last years. The doctor, my mom, and I work to have her enjoy her old age gracefully.

May 9. 2021

Time has been flying by, but that does not mean that I have not been thinking and talking about my mom and how much she meant to me. It is hard to believe she died on December 31, 2014, at 93. I knew the thoughts of my mom would never leave me. She had probably the single most significant influence on my life, anyone else. Sue Sauer has been a considerable influence but more in a spiritual way of support.
It is interesting that talking or thinking about Mom does not make me cry but gives me a warm feeling. How could one person be such a significant influence on my life? Thank you, Lord, for blessing me with her and for how much she had done for me while alive and now almost seven years after her death. In the Jewish religion, Herman Hersh, a good Jewish friend whom I cared for his son for 7 1/2 years, told me that if a person is not remembered, that is considered their second death.

October 6, 2021

My friend’s dad died yesterday, and being there brought back memories of when my mom died on December 31, 2014. I recalled that I did not cry for over 24 hours when my mom died, which was strange because I loved my mom very much. I must have been in either shock or denial of her death. When my friend’s dad died yesterday, I felt the same type of void. I was close to her dad, yet no emotions came out of me. I guess we all process loss in different ways.
I miss my mom and I think of her and talk about her often with friends and family. I am so glad she was saved and is in heaven now. Some day I will see her again! It would be an understatement to say that my mom was significantly influenced. It was an honor to take care of her for the last eight years of her life, from 2006 until 2014. She did not want to go into a nursing home, so the choice was easy for me to take care of her to grant her the wish she had. She was so good to me. We were best of friends!

May 8, 2022

My mom might not be alive in body anymore here on earth with me, but her legacy and love live on in my heart and daily life. I refer to my mom in many different ways each week as time goes by. I quote her saying things from the past, and she reminds me to keep doing what is right. I remember when I told her that I was not going to be Catholic any longer, she replied to me by saying that she just wanted me to love God and behave. Today is Mother’s Day, and the sermon was about mothers in the church. I was teary-eyed thinking about how much my mom loved, protected, taught, and encouraged me! It has been almost eight years since she died, but she lives on in my memory and heart!

 

July 14, 2022

It amazes me how often I talk about my mom, it is not a surprise in a sense because she was a big part of my life for 54 years.  She was someone I trusted, loved, respected, admired, and enjoyed, and she taught me a lot of little things that I still practice in my life today. She has instilled a sense of humor, confidence, faith, boldness, kindness, and love that has been grafted off from her life to mine. 

Mom sure influenced my life for the good, and because of her influence, I have touched many people in my circle of life in a similar type of way! Live keeps ticking away, but even though Mom is no longer with us, she is still in my heart and mind, and I talk about her regularly. She has influenced my life, and for that, I thank God!

 

 


February 5, 2023

It is hard to imagine that it has been over half a year since I wrote about my mom. Time keeps on ticking and life goes on for us here on earth and for those in eternity like my mom. I still refer to my mom pretty much regularly, I can almost say daily that I either talk to others about her in conversation or at least think about her because of something she used to always say or do. 

I remember that since my mom was catholic, she did not mind if she went to my church (Elmbrook) but the only thing was that I had to take her to her church (St. Gregory the Great). Just last month I had a few friends over to bake Biscotti cookies like my mom and I used to make each Christmas time as far back as I could remember. What a fond memory.  I have a lot of good memories of my mom, she was one person who understood me and loved me unconditionally.

 

 


 

 

July 15, 2023

Things have been about the same as usual, I still refer to my mom in conversation with others that I know and also strangers.  I must say that my mom was probably my best friend in my life. She knew me, accepted me, loved me, and would almost do anything for me. I am so glad I have a photo recording of what my mom recorded on the machine for me back in about 2012 or so. It goes off every night when I turn off my bedroom lights which activates the voice, what it says is, “You’re a good son!” I value that keepsake she made for me.

 


 

 

October 29, 2023

It amazes me to realize that my mom has been gone since December 31, 2014, which is going on 10 years soon, the funny part is that it has been like my mom is still alive by the way I think of her often and refer to old stories of the past with both those who knew her and anyone who I wanted to share memories about her with them. The machine I bought for her she put her voice on for me by saying, “Your a good son” I hear that every night when I turn the lights off and it automatically turns on. A great way to end a day and go to bed. Thanks, Mom, I love you!

 

 


 

Here Is A Link To Pictures From The Funeral Home I Want To Share


Here Is A Link To The Milwaukee Journal Obituaries


 

I Had Two Great Parents!

Both of my parents went to church every Sunday and were great people. I knew that just going to church and being a good man did not mean either one was going to heaven. I had many talks with both my parents before they died. I explained to them that they needed to confess with their mouth and believe in their heart that Jesus was their Lord and Savior. Romans 10:9-13
My parents were Catholic, making it harder for them to understand the need to do what I asked them to do. I am grateful that they could understand the Gospel and are now both in heaven together.  Make sure you know where you are going when you die. Also, know where your loved ones are going when they die. There should be no fear of death. God wants nobody to be left behind. When it comes to being with him in heaven, that is why it is so important to share the Gospel with others! This way, there will be no need to fear death. ~   Bill Greguska

One Of The Greatest Gifts:

One of the greatest gifts we can give people is the hope that their death is nothing to fear – you know, not that it has no fear of it, but the scripture promises that God will lead us through the valley of the shadow of death. ~Max Lucado

Parental Discipline

Why is discipline something politically incorrect? Even when she had to discipline me, I always loved my mom because I knew she loved me. She had to be the mother and father of the home since my dad worked so much, and his personality was not as assertive or in charge as my Mom. As an adult, I could have used a few more spankings as a child.
Also beneficial would be more motivational things, like what my mom did for me by getting involved in basketball in 4th grade. That seems like the only real incentive that I had to behave. Looking back now, I see that I somehow had it easier, but because I lacked some discipline, school and my early twenties were more challenging than needed. Without training, life will become more of a challenge than you can imagine!

Proverbs 3:12 Because The LORD Disciplines Those He Loves, As A Father The Son He Delights In.

Do you think you get away with things because you are not caught immediately? Dad was very honest, hardworking, wise, and kind. When I was about seven years old, my dad found a penny on the rug in church one Sunday and was so honest. It must have convicted him because he brought it back the following week.
My mom has always been loving, outgoing, fun-loving, firmly determined, intelligent, and loyal. Though I went astray from their example for many years, the Lord was merciful and kind to give me a second, third, and fourth chance. Growing up, I had problems with my integrity, which resulted in being arrested and even going to jail a few times. Why, God, was it not until I let go of my alcohol and marijuana that I could honestly say that my integrity started to grow? It took me a while to realize that God’s gift to me was my life; my offering to God is what I do with it. God watches over us because he is omnipresent, which means he is everywhere, watching what we say, think, and do, so we can never fool God.

 


 

 

Some Specific Scriptures To Encourage You:

Psalm 127:3 ESV 

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.

Ephesians 6:2 ESV 

“Honor your father and mother” (this is the first commandment with a promise),

Proverbs 29:15 ESV

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

Proverbs 22:6 ESV 

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

Exodus 20:12 ESV 

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the Lord your God is giving you.

Proverbs 31:28-29 ESV 

Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”

Proverbs 23:22-25 ESV 

Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old. Buy truth, and do not sell it; buy wisdom, instruction, and understanding. The father of the righteous will greatly rejoice; he who fathers a wise son will be glad in him. Let your father and mother be glad; let her who bore you rejoice.

John 19:26-27 ESV

When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

Proverbs 20:20 ESV 

If one curses his father or his mother, his lamp will be put out in utter darkness.

Luke 18:20 ESV 

You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’”

Proverbs 10:1 ESV

The Proverbs of Solomon. A wise son makes a glad father, but a foolish son is a sorrow to his mother.

Proverbs 6:20 ESV 

My son, keep your father’s commandment and forsake not your mother’s teaching.

Leviticus 19:3 ESV

Every one of you shall revere his mother and his father, and you shall keep my Sabbaths: I am the Lord your God.

Isaiah 49:15 ESV

Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.

 

 


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