To the Editor:

This letter is sent from a heart that is overflowing with love for all of the residents and friends of my husband, Gene Zarayko, who poured out love for him.

The members of the Northampton Fire Department, Fire Police and Police Department - the awesome honor you all gave him, in the Standing of Guard, the coordination between all to ensure a smooth navigation through town as the funeral procession passed so many projects that Gene had a part in.

The lines of friends who shared with us the important part Gene played in their lives - my family and I learned so much about him we didn’t know. So many who got their start onto success in life because Gene believed in them and gave them a chance.

Thanks to the Honorable Judge Emil Giordano, who offered the eulogy for Gene. He summed up his life with this statement: “Gene took your problem and made it his own.” That was so true whether it concerned the residents of the community or within his own family. It seems he was given a gift to know what was happening everywhere.

Many thanks to all who offered donations, spiritual bouquets, food and baked goods and all beautiful expressions of love with floral pieces.

A most memorable, unexpected tribute to Gene was the Arch of Honor given by the East Allen Township and Whitehall fire departments. As the two ladders joined, they were shrouded in two rays of sunlight shining down upon them. It’s a photo we hold dear to our hearts.

A special thanks to the Northampton Press and Al Recker, who covered all the years of council meetings and now Gene’s final farewell to the community.

I will end this with words Gene gave to all the residents of Northampton in his last council meeting: “God bless all of you!”

Carole Zarayko

Northampton