Dick Chyrklund passed away on December 22. As Dick, and Rose, are among the founding members of our fraternity, Dick�s funeral became a time to recall our history. Among those gathered at St. Bridget�s for the Mass were Dick Morton, formation director for the first seven Secular Franciscans of St. Anthony of Padua Fraternity, and Bob Bramwell, the fraternity�s first minister.
It was when Bob Bramwell moved and withdrew from the fraternity that Dick became minister. It is likely that half of us, the current fraternity members, made our profession to Dick. In fact, he was a pioneer in this role. According to our fraternity history, Dick was the first fraternity minister to receive professions. Prior to this, all professions were received by a friar. I have never been sure if this reference is to first in the world or first in the upper Midwest, but it is impressive either way. During this same time and beyond, Rose was our formation director.
Shortly after his term as minister, Dick was required to work nights. This prevented his attendance at most fraternity gatherings for several years to come. When he was finally able to return, his health soon made him homebound. A year ago, Mona and Tom visited with Dick and Rose. Even after years of illness, Dick offered no complaint. He recalled the early days of the fraternity and the joy that filled the members. He was concerned that "rules" had replaced the living that made us Franciscans.
A little over a month ago, Dick suffered another heart attack. When he was taken to the hospital, little hope was given to his recovery. Then he seemed to be recovering, even to recovering the ability to speak. I am sure Dick, if the Lord willed, would have gladly continued his suffering. However, the miraculous recovery of his speech did not indicate God�s will that Dick remain here with us. Instead, it seems, Dick needed to tell Rose, "I love you," one more time.