Missing you, Rick / Ed Zipser (Professor, colleague, friend ) I shall always honor and remember Rick as one of the finest students I ever had. One of the rewards of being a professor is watching students grow intellectually, and become scientists in their own right, and making their own contributions to knowledge. I had the pleasure of watching Rick become that scientists during our years together in Aggieland. It was with pride that I watched, at a distance, him proving himself in a somewhat different specialty area at Ohio State. It is a deep personal loss not to see where that growth would lead over time. But more than the professional loss is the loss of an outstanding human being who never failed to find ways to help his fellow students. Not a day goes by when I don't remember Rick, and I think that all those who were with us at A&M will never forget him. EZ
Rick Toracinta Goes Home! / The Cowles Family
22 November 2005
Rick (Ernest Richard, but don't call him that!) Toracinta was a friend to St. Mary's for many years, and yes, he and Monica were engaged and almost married. He discerned about a week before the wedding that it was not time, and anguished over that discernment for a long time - not that the decision was anything but right, but at the pain it caused. Only his faith in the God who had led him to that decision helped him through the years that followed it.
Rick was a good friend to me and had started at St. Mary's what was called Aggie Challenge, a weekly gathering on Wednesdays that explored the mass readings of the week over lunch. We were a small group that met outside of the old student center, or inside if the weather didn't cooperate and we could fins a place that didn't drip on us. Rick was an avid cyclist and tornado chaser, and he was more than just a passing astronomer. I remember sharing his stories of storm chasing and him taking my wife and me out to watch meteor showers.
Rick always listened, and he always shared what God placed on his heart. He was honest and didn't pull punches, and he was one of the few people who could pumch you with a velvet glove - he could sock you n the eye and kiss you at the same time, and you knew you needed to thank him each time he spoke with you.
His hugs were huge, and you were safe in his arms. His presence was enough to quiet a room if it was needed, and it was enough to covet the corner he chose to stand in while others got the limelight - a limelight he was sure to make sure you got while he was content to stand in your shadow.
Rick was an active member of the St. Mary's RCIA team, and he was, with Andy McDavid, perhaps the best Catechist St. mary's ever had. He served RCIA under Elizabeth Thaibinh & Monica Ashour, and was gracious enough to read at my wedding and ask me to attend at his.
Rick showed me the power and grace that accompanied vigil with the Blessed Sacrament. He asked me to join him in signing up at St. Joseph's in Bryan before St. Mary's had adoration, and he and I signed up for the 1AM Tuesday slot. He would pick me up at 12:45 every Tuesday Morning, and we would spend the ride up talking about the week, and the ride back sharing our joy in The Lord...riding in his little white Honda with the rosary hanging from the rear-view mirror. Sometimes we would do a rosary on the way up or back, but we always had adoration in silence. I would marvel at his peace, and the calm that Rick had even when the weight of the world was on his shoulders...becaue he was in the Presence of Our lord. I kept that vigil slot for a year after Rick moved away, and I'm still first on the call list when overnight substitutes are needed. Rick taught me that it wasn't a thing that needed doing - it was an honor to be called and answer "Here." I have witnessed several personal miracles as a result of Adoration - and Rick introduced me to that Gift.
How do you summarrize a life like Rick's in so few words, without spending your life reciting it? I don't know. Every tear is a chapter, and his book will fill oceans before we have wept ourselves to an appropriate denouement. I can only think that he and Zack Barcevac are telling us, right now, that everything they have taught us is true - if only we have the heart to listen.
I am ecstatic for Rick. And sad for myself. Selfishly, I know. He was the wind beneath my wings: seldom seen, rarely acknowledged, and drastically essential to soaring with eagles. He taught me to see the Lord in everything, and that a miracle was a close as the nearest tree ("Can YOU make one of those, Kristofer?"). He and Monica taight Beth & me how to play Bridge, and he busted his chin to the point of needing stitches, just to show me how to roller blade and how to fall appropriately when doing so! The only time I know Rick missed RCIA was when he called me to tell me he had been riding past my house when he saw my dog get hit by a car, and he stayed with her until I could rush home to be there to find her coughing up blood in his arms. He always cared for Myranda without hesitation when we left town.
Rick was an honest, skeptical scientist. Eager to the point of urgency in learning new things, and always able to see the awesome power of God in everything from the Big Bang to the conception of a child. Rick could prove things scientifically that the most fervent atheist (which I was before i met Rick) could only stumble thorugh, because he had the confidence that God was the creator and He had natural mysteries that He WANTED us to solve.
Rick was from Lowell, Massachusetts; at least that's where he hailed from when he came to Aggieland. I met Rick's Mom once when she visited here in College Station, and at that time she was a skeptical non-believer. She will need our prayers to understand this event in Rick's Life.
Rick's stop in College Statin in the pursuit of his dream left a mark on our comunity that even those who now pass it on may not know thay are doing so. That is greatness unequalled. When you share a part of your life that came out of St. Mary's, you are passing on Rick Toracinta. St. Mary's was never the same once Rick crossed the threshold, and what you share of it bares some of him in that sharing.
Rick is resting in the bosom of The Lord right now. I know this more than I know anything else.
I am grateful for the gift of Rick. God has truly been altruistic in His giving of this man to us, and I cannot fault Him for wanting Rick Home.
I do, too.
What I would give for one more baloney sandwich with Rick across the picnic table from me, reading another verse of scripture and sharing his thoughts about it, and why God put it right there at that very moment for us to explore.
I can't wait to see him again. My friend. My Brother.
dr rick's eternal flame and member card / Precious Memorials
Mommy, Please Don't Worry / Linda Owens (cousin) Mommy, please don't worry 'cause I'm doing really well, Even though I miss you on This Happy Mother's Day!
Wishing you were with me 'cause In that case I could tell You all the things that happened to me While you were away.
I love you even though you can't Be with me just for now. And I know you love me, too, 'Cause I'm your little child.
And I'm sure that you will come To me someday, somehow, And I will see you look at me And know that you have smiled.
Happy Mother's Day Mom From your son Rick with all my love.
Rick - / Carol Davey (Through his wonderful mother! ) 3 May 2007
I live in New Zealand and am currently on my 3rd visit [vacation] to the beautiful State of North Carolina... Your mother came into my life in a serendipitous way, two weeks ago... we were in a local resturant dining with 'other' friends at the time and through a chance encounter we found we were 'drawn' together to share so many things in common and especially on the spiritual plane -but I am sure you were there with us at that time! - we spent two visits together before she returned to Illinois two days ago and it will become and enduring friendship... it is 11:11am now and I send you my love and may you continue to communicate with your mom for her healing and empowerment, ongoing ... she sends fer deepest love - and so do I ...... vive! Love and light aLways ... C@rol - Lover of Lights ... ~ >@< !
Weathering The Storm / Dianne
WEATHERING THE STORM
You meant so much to so many people Your intelligent, warm and kind. Your life was filled with many endeavors Truly a credit to all of mankind.
You went after life not waiting for it Inspiring others to do the same. Generously giving so much of yourself Not seeking glory or seeking fame.
A void was created when called by our Lord You must be part of His plan. And although it hurts more everyday Heaven gained a most wonderful man.
Nothing can take our memories away They’ll remain in our hearts nice and warm And when the tears fall and our hearts break in two We’ll think of you and weather the storm.
Your Mothers Love / Eric Davis (Mother's schoolmate )
I am sorry Rick that I never met you. I have just now met your mother. The way she spoke of you was with truly a mother's love. She is quite a lady and I know that you loved her. May the love you have for her sustain her in her weakest moments.
A Tribute to your grief Auntie / Linda Owens (cousin)
For those of us who love you very much, we do see the cord that keeps you attached to Rick and even though we can not take your pain away, we do see it and sympathize deeply. The poem below describes what you must be feeling very well.
And I will stand by you and be your friend.
My memory of Rick / Martyn Hicks I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Rick Toracinta. Rick was one of the van drivers on my stormchase tour in 2002 and he was one of the most friendliest guys I have ever met. He always had time to answer any questions and made me feel very welcome on the tour and my first visit to America. My deepest sympathies go to all that knew Rick, especially family and friends. An enthusiastic meteorologist with a PhD in Atmospheric Sciences who will be sorely missed by all that happened to know him over the years.
To my mom / Your Son
Mom, Please Listen
Mom, please listen to me as I take the time to write. I see parents struggling daily, Their pain is such a fight...
All of us who’ve gone And left the rest of you behind... We’re ok, Mom, I promise ... Heaven is beautiful and God is kind.
You used to tell me that one day God would call and take you home. You told me you’d make me strong So I would stand tall when alone.
But things happen, Mom That does not go in our plans, I wasn’t scared, Mom, When God held out his hand.
I didn’t want to leave you, I didn’t have time to say good-bye When the angels said, “Come with us” There wasn’t time to question why.
I’ve watched you daily, Mom. It hurts to see you cry. I don’t want you to be unhappy, Just because we didn’t get to say good-bye.
Tell others what I’m telling you, So many parents need to know That Earth was just a layover We had another place to go.
I know you miss me, Mom I know your heart was broken in two. But God really needed me Because my earthly life was through.
I’’m always alongside you... I smile and touch your hair. I whisper “Mom, I love you” You just can’t see me there.
I’m the one that gently touches you On your shoulder when you’re sad. I’m happy now that you finally found God again, and are no longer mad.
Tell the parents, Mom, for me That all of us kids are okay. God had plans for our lives When he called us home that day.
I love you, Mom, I always will And remember I’m not far away. We’re going to be together When God calls out your name.
~ Anonymous ~
So Sad / Alma Chaney (Mother) My Dear Son,
A beautiful memorial site to come and visit with you, yet, at times its makes me so sad to see that no candles were lit in your memory or a tribute left to you. Life goes on for others in this busy world, but I have to tell you, I was and always will be there for you. A Mother's love for her children never dies.
People think we have forgotten each time they see us smile, But they don't know the heartache that our smiles hide all the while. To some you are forgotten, to others a part of the past, But to those who loved and lost you, your memory will always last.
"For those who believe, no proof is necessary. For those who don't believe, no proof is possible." - Stuart Chase
To Aunt Alma and Uncle Jim
Butterfly Wings by Linda Owens
Tears are an echo of the crushing hurt down deep inside When we get the news that a cherished loved one has died. We relive each moment and think of what might have been, If we had but known how close it was to their earthly end. You know Jesus weeps and bows His head in sorrow, When He sees the pain that lies in store for us tomorrow. He sends an angel to fetch our loved ones home to Him. He is waiting to dry our tears as they overflow the brim. We must ask for His help to get over our heart broken grief. But before that can happen; we must accept Him and believe. There is no suffering or pain where our angels have gone. They simply earned their reward and Jesus took them Home. We will never lose them as long as their memory remains, So in this we can rejoice and turn loose of all the pain. Blessings are sent from Heaven daily in very small things, Like the very softest of caresses from a butterfly's wings.
memories from grad school / Dan Cecil (friend)Read >>
memories from grad school / Dan Cecil (friend)
Rick and I finished grad school at Texas A&M at the same time, working on similar topics. We both probably took it too seriously most of the time, and had to help each other keep some sense of perspective instead of stressing out. At one point Rick suggested we should make a point of going out to dinner every once in a while, to get away from the office and discuss our work (or to discuss everything except work!) in a relaxed, stress-free setting. So we chose a bar-and-grill called Fox & Hound. We didn't schedule these outings, but the first few times all had the same thing happen. Some deejay from a local radio station would show up, with announcements blaring about "Working Women's Wednesday". It was annoying at first, but became a fun running joke for us. When the stress built up at work, we would take a break and celebrate Working Women's Wednesday (no matter what day it was). Even after graduating and moving on (Rick to Ohio, me to Alabama), we would still sometimes trade emails about needing to take a break and honor Working Women's Wednesday! So on behalf of Rick and myself, here's to the working women out there! It sounds stupid, but that kind of thing really helped us get each other through that last year or so of school! Close
Rick, Each day a special child is born. Jesus loans them to us to love & hold. You were one of those children. Now you are a special Angel!! Just wish he could have waited longer before choosing you.
One Year Ago Today / Alma Chaney (Mother)
One year ago today you were laid to rest, seems like it was today.
TEARS
If tears could build a stairwell and memories were a lane, I would walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again. No farewell words were spoken no time to say good-bye You were gone before I knew it, and only God knows why. My heart still aches in sadness, and secret tears still flow, What it means to lose you, no one will ever know.
Memorial Poem / Alma Chaney (Mother)
We do not need a special day to bring you to our minds. The days we do not think of you are very hard to find. Each morning when we awake we know that you are gone. And no one knows the heartache as we try to carry on. Our hearts still ache with sadness and secret tears still flow. What it meant to lose you no one will ever know. Our thoughts are always with you, your place no one can fill. In life we loved you dearly; in death we love you still.
There will always to be a heartache, and often a silent tear. But always a precious memory of the days when you were here. If tears would make a staircase, and heartaches make a lane, We'd walk the path to heaven and bring you home again. We hold you close within our hearts; and there you will remain, To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again. Our family chain is broken now, and nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. Close
It has been one year ago today that you were called away. Sitting here thinking of you and the precious memories I have to cherish. All the good and kind things you did for people that were not known to most, even those close to you. All the Saturdays you spent on your knees praying with a young girl, asking God to help you save one child. The many Thanksgivings you spent at the homeless shelters serving food to the homeless. The meals you had on holidays in your home for those you had no families near to be with. The little girl next door who lost her puppy and you sat in the yard with her, helped her make signs and went with her to post then in the neighborhood. God bless you son for your kindness and the good heart you had, the smile most always on your face and you were always so humble. I shall always cherish those memories and I thank God that you and I shared so much, that I truely knew my son.
Last year was a horrible Thanksgiving. I have asked myself so many times,"what do I have to be thankful for". I can tell you now, I am so thankful God chose me to be your Mother, to care for you and to love you. Today, we went to your favorite place, the Shrine. I lit a candle for you and said a prayer. I ask the Blessed Mother to wrap her arms around you and tell you that I love and miss you so much. We came home and in your Memorial garden, we place a Christmas tree and put lights out for you, we also keep your candle lit for you in the garden. There are times when I go out to the garden, I sit and visit,I have actually felt you were there with me.
I have seen so many signs from you,I know you are watching over me. I saw the butterflies and last Christmas, I saw your sign so plain, it just smack me in the face. Thank you for letting me know you are with me. Its with your help and Gods grace that I make it through each day that passes.
I have said so many times,"if I could have had one last time", but I wasnt given that choice. Son, spread your wings and fly with the angels. A Mothers love will never die for her children. I love you and miss you so much.
Anniversary I have asked Jesus to please help you get through this day; For Him to touch, bless and comfort you in a very special way. Rick was called home; today marks the anniversary, of one year. I know your heart is heavy, and in your eyes there is more than a single tear. The inexperienced can not know the heart ache of losing a beloved child. The grief is so bitter, raw and intense; it seems like it will drive you wild. Closure is just a word and the grief and agony seem they will never heal. And you start to hate the words that say " I know exactly how you feel." But God is watching over you and His angels are always near you. And you are blessed with the butterflies that say Rick is there too. Close
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