Seven years ago, an ambitious young man walked six blocks to a local restaurant eager to apply for a job. The determined sixteen year old amateur wandered into his ideal job with an overwhelming sense of independence, and motivation. Plagued by fear, and uncertainty, he overcame his emotions as he approached his interview in a composed manner that reflected his typical demeanor. Impressed by the young man’s inspiring amount of potential, the boss, Joe, gave the aspiring butcher admission into the Chink’s family. For the next seven years, the young man worked his way up the ladder and, also, into the hearts of all of his co-workers.
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to a good friend of ours named William “Billy” Eder. Billy, who is considered as one of our most precious assets, has spent his career at Chink’s Steaks in the basement slicing our delicate meats to perfection. Occasionally, he can be spotted out-front, eyes tearing, while he meticulously peels onions with a large grin on his face. In between tasks, Billy can usually be found either drinking his coffee, or eating a cheesesteak while socializing with his co-workers. Not only was he a reliable employee, but he was a good friend to all who he worked with.
On Sunday, October the fourth two thousand and nine, the staff at Chink’s Steaks was faced with an unexpected, tragic loss. Our beloved friend Billy entered the gates of heaven after an unfortunate car accident took his life. Even though it may seem like his time on this earth was brief; he lived a life full of accomplishment, and contentment that most people fail to achieve in a full lifespan. As an avid scholar, Billy has always been exceptionally passionate about his schoolwork. A full-time student for the last twenty years, he has excelled in all of his studies. Friends at Chink’s remember the North Catholic High schoolboy, religiously strolling into work with homework in hand. This ritual continued through his two years at Penn State, up until his graduation last spring from Temple University. The young English major proudly graduated, and was eager to face “the real world”. Unfortunately for him the ninja world was not yet ready for his premature awesome ninja skills (lol).As a result, Billy moved to Plan B. Interested in acquiring a government job, Billy perfected his resume, and began searching for his ultimate career. Although he was thrilled to begin a new chapter in his life, he was disturbed about closing one. For the last seven years, Chink’s was somewhat of a second home to Billy. He loved his job, he loved the annual Christmas party, and he loved his co-workers; who had become more than just people he worked with. Uneasy about leaving the job he loved, he proceeded to enjoy his summer while slightly procrastinating when searching for a new job. This strategy proved to work well not only for Billy; but, it also proved convenient for his friends at Chink’s that were opposed to the idea of him leaving. Over the summer, we all did begin to prepare ourselves for him to leave us when he found a new job; however, we never prepared ourselves for him to leave us in the manner in which he did.
The staff of Chink’s is so close to one another that they reflect one big family. We have always been more than just co-workers to one another. Outside of work we spend most of our time huddled together doing some sort of activity. Unfortunately, now we are one member short. It has been an obstacle for us while trying to recover from our untimely loss. We have been facing many difficulties while trying to deal with our tragedy, which hit so close to home.
Everyone at Chink’s looked at Billy as if he was the little brother in our family. Even though he is no longer with us, there is no way that we could forget us. In his little time here on Earth he has made such a powerful mark on everyone’s life he came across. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy lives on.
Bill, we know that you are watching over us while in heaven. We’re sorry you had to leave us so soon; we weren’t ready for your departure just yet. However, I couldn’t picture a better candidate for an angel. You truly walked through life as though you were always wearing wings. Even though you are not here physically, your love and spirit continues to surround us. We miss you. Please, watch over us all, and keep us safe. Until we meet again.
