For many those defining moments were Tuesday, April 17 and Wednesday, April 18, 2012. The community of St. Joan of Arc hosted the funeral of parishioner, 36 year old Capt. Nic Rozanski, who was killed by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan along with two other central Ohio soldiers.
The out pouring of love and support for his wife Jenny, their two young girls, his parents, in-laws, siblings, relatives and many friends was truly amazing. The expression of support was unwavering as visitors arrived for the calling hours which were scheduled from 2:00 - 8:00 pm on Tuesday April 17. The hundreds of people who waited hours in line to express their condolences did not cease until 10:15 pm.
A military detail kept vigil during the night with Captain Rozanski's body until the funeral Mass at 10:00 am on Wednesday.
On Wednesday, the day of the funeral, over 700 people filled the church. The numerous military dignitaries, enlisted soldiers, and countless civilian personnel joined Nic's family and friends for a ceremony of recognition which included presentation of Medals for Bravery in the line of duty. After the presentation everyone joined to celebrate Mass and offered prayers for Nic, his family & friends and those in service of their country. Beautiful, heart felt eulogies commemorated the life of a man whose passion, integrity, mischievous fun, dedicated service and great love off family and life brought joy to all those who were blessed to know him.
News helicopters hovered a respectful distance in the sky to film the procession to the cemetery. The funeral procession stretched for miles. The 285 cars with police escorts and freedom rider motorcyclists slowly passed a tribute by fire fighters and hundreds of students and people who paused from their work day to line the roads en route to the cemetery to bid farewell to this brave man.
The bright, sunny, unseasonably warm day was a sharp contrast to the deep sadness and sorrow that filled the hearts of those in attendance in the cemetery that day. Final tributes were expressed in prayer and actions; a sprinkling rite with holy water, an honor guard with a 21 gun salute, 4 mounted police officers with their horses leading a riderless horse as bag pipe players signaled the final farewell.
Nic's family and friends returned to St. Joan of Arc for a luncheon and an opportunity to share stories of this cherished man. The 240 guests dined on some of Nic's favorite foods donated by: White Castle- sliders, Babuska's perogies, Roosters assortment of chicken wings, Rusty Bucket torpedo subs, Vincenzo's calzones, Village Tavern chowder, plus Bier Stube & Tommy's pizza. The menu also included crispy baked chicken breasts, mac and cheese, kielbasa & sauerkraut, salsa & chips, salads, fruit and an endless, delicious assortment of desserts donated by both parish and military families.
The theme that connected all who were in some way involved; wether clergy, parish staff, volunteers, restaurants or people who lined the streets, everyone felt it was an honor to contribute some small part to provide tribute to our fallen soldiers and to support our military personnel and their families.
We do not understand why Captain Nic Rozanski's life was cut so short but, the impact of his 36 years will echo on into time by all who witnessed these powerfully moving events and for the selfless example he set. This terrible loss provided a glimpse of what it is to be a community (regardless of faith demonination) sharing gifts and talents to help begin to heal the broken body of Christ. We pray that God's peace and love comfort all those who grieve the loss of a loved one.
Captain Nicholas J. Rozanski died on Wednesday, April 4, 2012, supporting Operation Enduring Freedom in northern Afghanistan.
He was a member of the Ohio Army National Guard’s 37th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
Nick, a graduate of Dublin Coffman High School and The Ohio State University, was an amazing father, husband, son, brother & friend to all who knew him.
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