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Richard Hejna Obituary

Richard "Rick" Charles Hejna, 27 years of life. A light has forever
gone out in the hearts of the many that knew and loved Rick. We only hope that somehow the same light we lost has guided him to the peace he sought. There is no description for the ache in the hearts of his wife, daughter, father, mother and her husband, sister, grandmothers, uncles, aunts, mother-in-law and scores of others. His friends knew him as the "life of the party"and everyone else was so proud of the wonderful man, loving husband and father he became. Somehow, there were always two Richards and everything he felt, he felt so deeply. We only hope that in his heart he truly knows that everyone's love for him was deeper and stronger than he ever knew and that he now knows our arms of love will wrap around him as we lay him to rest. We will only survive with the thought that he will be inside our hearts forever. Graveside services will be held. The Hejna family is proudly being served by Phoenix Memorial Park & Mortuary.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Jul. 26, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Hejna

Sponsored by TC and KC.

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Angela Hejna

July 20, 2025

You came to visit us in Japan a few times in dragonfly form. Mila said "Uncle Ricky is visiting! Hi Uncle Ricky!" You are all around me. I miss you every single day.

Angela Hejna

July 20, 2024

The years keep flying by. I miss you Ricky! Life is not the same without you. Thank you for being one of my angels who watches out for me, and Mila! I love you.

Aunt Sandi & Uncle Dave

July 20, 2022

It's been 15 years since we lost you, almost as long as we had you. We think about you all the time and are grateful you are looking after us. We miss you, we love you.

Angela Hejna

July 20, 2020

Ricky, miss you everyday, and always! Forever in my heart, and always on my mind. I know that you are watching out for Mila, but I wish that you were here to see her in person. Every time I put her to sleep I tell her that the angels will come down from the heavens to bring her sweet dreams, that all of the grandmas and grandpas are sending hugs and kisses, and that Uncle Ricky will hug and hold her until until she wakes up so that she is protected. ❤

Love you forever baby brother.

Angela Hejna

January 13, 2017

Almost 10 years.....You have left a void for all of us who love you. Thank you for being you - so special.......so funny .......and full of life. I love you to the moon and back-- and then some. Miss you every day. Wish you were here. (So envious that Dad has Uncle D and Aunt D to hang with)......wish I had you. ❤❤❤❤❤

Lisa Fortney/Carnahan

July 2, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are wth the entire family. I think of your father, mother, sister and many others. May peace, love and your memory fill the voids left in their hearts.

Angela Hejna

July 1, 2015

Ricky,
Well, it's about that time of year again and I sure do miss you! I wanted to pick the phone up the other day and chat about our day/week. Hoping you come to me in my dreams...and that maybe you get this message wherever you are. You are loved and never forgotten.

Love Always,
Ange

January 12, 2014

Ricky, for the second time since we lost you, someone looking for me on the internet found me through this listing. Oh, what a terrible way to find an old friend. Oh, how I wish it wasn't so. It's been six, almost seven years hon, and I still can't even write a message like this without crying. You were a part of me that is lost forever. I pass the cemetery two times a day. I pass my little shrine to you twenty times a day when I'm home. Sometimes it still brings me to my knees. We just had another holiday season without you. I've gone on, we all have -- we've learned to laugh again and go on with life -- we've HAD to. But it's not the same, it will never be the same. Just know how much we loved and love you. Miss you, still miss you day in and day out, and will always miss you. Love, Mom.

Angela Hejna

April 27, 2013

Ricky, there are so many moments in my days that I wish I could just pick up the phone and share with you! I long for your advice and take on things. Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. Miss romping in the muddy golf cart and drinking beers little brother. Forever with you, forever in me. 381 xoxoxo
Ange

Lisa Fortney / Carnahan

March 13, 2013

Richard, my heart goes out to you and your family. I cannot imagine the pain you must feel. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I've been retired for years and stumbled across this guest book. So sorry for your enormous loss.

wayne macklem

August 12, 2010

Hi Ricky I just wanted to let you know that we miss you. your friend Wayne.

July 25, 2010

Was talking to Jason Friday along with some other co-workers you know we all still have fond memories of you!

July 23, 2010

Hey Ricky,
We were just talking about you at work. How sad it is that we don't have you. Still missing that SMILE!!! Love Holly

July 22, 2010

Ricky....thinking about you and how much your family and friends miss you.

Your cousin,

Silvia

Brandon

September 9, 2009

Ricky, you will always be missed by all who adored your great personality and friendship. I miss ya and look forward to seeing you in time. Take care and make everyone laugh up there!!

Angela Hejna

July 19, 2009

Ricky....I still hear and see you laughing. Such a beautiful smile. I miss you.

Ange

Richard Hejna

September 9, 2008

Richard Charles,

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "I saw your face and touched your little arms and hands".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "I held you in my arms".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you took your first step".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you said, Dada".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you lost a tooth and after spending lots of money on your smile you proceeded to knock them all out".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "and all the times you fell asleep on my bare chest while we rocked together for hours".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you caught your first fish, tossed the football,played catch with a baseball and most of all the first time you stepped on the ice".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you cleaned your room and cut the grass without being told".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you asked me for my opinion".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you said, can we talk dad".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you said, are you OK Old Man?".

I will always remember and never forget the FIRST time, "you kissed me on the cheek and said, "love you dad", in front of all your buddies..........

I will always remember and never forget the LAST time, "I rubbed your arm and kissed your hand for the LAST time".

Until we meet again son for the FIRST time..........

Old Man

So much love.

August 25, 2008

"My first yard"

August 25, 2008

Boys being boys.

August 25, 2008

Just being Ricky.

August 25, 2008

Loving family.

August 25, 2008

What a smile.

August 25, 2008

Aunt Sandi

August 25, 2008

Ricky, i'll always cherish your funny stories and keep you close at heart. You are so special to all those that have known you, for you have touched so many. I look forward to the day when our whole family is together again. Miss you! Love you!

Diane Elmoe

August 25, 2008

Ricky,

Gramma Fran still talks about your visits whenever she was in the hospital. She tells people, that she would open her eyes and you were there.
I find your being quiet strange. You were and are always the "life of the family".
No one could tell a story, like you. No one could brighten a room, like you.
No one would ask for or eat as much Polish spaghetti, as you.
Scot has not, nor will he ever, adjust to your not being with the family on birthdays, holidays, any day of the week.
He misses you and sometimes is still angry that you left all of us.
I wish I had gotten to say good bye. I wish I had gotten to give you one last hug and kiss. I wish I remembered your visit to me in the hospital.
But after all of this, you need to know that we love you, miss you, wish you were still here with us.
Don't forget you are in heaven with some of the family's best card sharks, I mean players.
You are missed. You will always be missed.
Gramma Fran always tells me that God has a reason for everything He does. God never sends us anything we can't handle. I just wish God had asked all of us before he took you from us.
Watch over all of us. We will see you when we get to heaven.
Love, Aunt Di XOXOXO

silvia smith

August 25, 2008

No pain, no fear, no sorrow
can touch you anymore,
In our hearts you'll be,
forever more.

Mama

Breaking Girls' Hearts

August 24, 2008

Always Mr. Cool. Oh, To Have That Day Back

August 24, 2008

Always Number 1 in Each Other's Hearts

August 24, 2008

Too Cool to Smile with Braces

August 24, 2008

Already Mugging for the Camera

August 24, 2008

Always Laughing

August 24, 2008

Well, He Didn't ALWAYS Like Fishing

August 24, 2008

Spreading Joy to Others

August 24, 2008

Always a Party Boy

August 24, 2008

Too Adorable for Words

August 24, 2008

Our Buddha Baby

August 24, 2008

Uncle Dave

August 24, 2008

To all who read this note: This book may be closing but Ricky lives on. Not in the physical sense we deal with every day but in the photos on our walls, the stories on our lips, the tears on our cheeks and the memories in our hearts. Ricky was one of the good one that got away, but he lives on, all around us if we care to look hard enough. I know this because I know he loved me as much as I love him. 381

Angela Hejna

August 24, 2008

Dearest Ricky ~

I guess this is supposed to be my last entry in your book. I know for sure that these will never be my last words to you.

Where do I begin? I love you so much. I always have and always will. I miss you everyday. I still catch myself thinking "I wonder what Ricky is doing right now?" and then I stop because my new reality hits me. It sucks, but it is real and I am trying to get used to it.

Recently I learned something from someone who had also lost a person in their life. She told me that we are all put on this earth to touch the lives of certain people, for whatever reason that may be. She said that she realized that those of us who are still on this earth need to focus on why we are here, and whose lives we are supposed to touch. We should focus on living ours. It helped.

There will always be a part of me that is gone. I am forever a changed person. That is the only way I can describe it. I wish that we could have grown together and traded stories about life with each other. I don't like being an only child now - I want you back.

For now, I will wait until I see you again. I know in my heart that there will be a time when our paths cross. So until then, I promise you that you will always be beside me in spirit. I will always remember your laughter, and I will laugh. I will focus on living my life. I will always stay a part of your daughter's life. I will take care of our family, and be there for mom and dad.

I love you my brother forever and always. You are in my thoughts, my heart and will always be with me.

Ange

Having a Great Time

August 17, 2008

Hanging with Daddy

August 17, 2008

Our Family

August 17, 2008

Hanging Out

August 17, 2008

Loved to Fish

August 17, 2008

Proud Father

August 17, 2008

Big Sister, Little Brother

August 17, 2008

Dancing with Mom

August 17, 2008

Christa

August 7, 2008

I know you have cried and laughed this year gone by w/out Ricky, but we both know he is still giving you hell from heaven, as only a son can do. The best I can say is I Love You and will always feel honored that you chose me to speak at his services.
Love,
Christa

t d n

August 6, 2008

peace ricky. i have you sisters back my friend. your cousin.

Jason and Glynis Peterson

August 5, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Jason and Glynis Peterson

August 5, 2008

A YEAR HAS GONE BY: A YEAR FILLED WITH HEARTACHE, TEARS, MEMORIES, RESIGNATION, HOPE AND REMEMBERANCE. THROUGH THE MANY TEARS, MAY WE NOW TRY TO SEE HOW RICHARD “RICKY” HEJNA HAS ENRICHED THIS WORLD BY HIS PRESENCE, HIS HUMOR AND WITH THE INFLUENCE AND INSPIRATION HE HAD WITH THOSE FORTUNATE TO BE TOUCHED BY HIS SOUL. HE WILL BE SORELY MISSED, BUT THE WORLD IS TRULY A BETTER PLACE BECAUSE OF HIM. A MOST TELLING TRIBUTE TO “RICKY” HEJNA IS THAT HIS MEMORY WILL CONTINUE TO LIVE ON, LASTING FOREVER IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO LOVES HIM. REST IN PEACE, AND MAY GOD BLESS YOUR SOUL.

August 2, 2008

Richard,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family..God Bless..

Andrew

Rick Gehlbach

July 30, 2008

Nothing compares to losing ones own child. It just isn't the same. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. I never had the honor of meeting Ricky but from what I have heard he was a wonderful person. I know words are hollow, however, I know he is still with you in your heart and soul. That isn't empty, that is really him. I believe in God and I believe when one passes they do not just go away. Their soul is always around to comfort us when we are sad, to have fun with us when we are happy, and to keep us in line when we stray. Some call that a conscious, I call it my friend, my parents, or my child. You might be keeping him kinda busy Richard. God bless you.

Holly White

July 28, 2008

Hey Ricky,
A year ago today I gathered with your family and friends... we all shared in the loss of you. We all shared hugs, stories and love of one special guy, YOU!
The time has gone by, the pain is giving way to all the good memories. Time helps, but the hole will always be in my heart. Still missing that smile.
Love Holly

July 28, 2008

Dearest Richard,
I know now that a year without your earthly son has gone by and the transition to learning to communicate with your heavenly son has not always been easy. You are so strong . . . I know he hears you. Know I am always thinking of you.
Love ya,
Judy

July 26, 2008

Richard:

I give you this one thought to keep.
I am with you still--I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sunlight on ripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not think of me as gone-
I am with you still in each new dawn.

Author Unknown

Richard, I am sure Ricky is with you still each and every day. May thoughts of him bring peace to your heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Neil, Stephanie, James and Katie Hamill

SAL

July 25, 2008

Rich,
As time goes by I hope the pain becomes weak and the good memories grow strong.

"Time is not what you think. Dying? Not the end of everything. We think it is. But what happens on earth is only the beginning." -Mitch Albom

Kathy Fidis

July 24, 2008

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Brian Gorla

July 24, 2008

Richard ,
I wish there was some way to take your pain away but I can't. I can only offer you the support and love of a brother.
I know that every day that goes by some thing prompts a memory of Ricky. Maybe its Gods way of always keeping us close untill we meet again.
May all the good memories of Ricky play formost in your mind.
Sheryl and I pray for Ricky, Angela and you.
God bless you all.
Brian And Sheryl

Robin McEntire

July 23, 2008

Dearest Sil & Family,

There's nothing I can say that will make you feel less pain.

I want you all to know that you are in my prayers every day.

Much love,

July 23, 2008

Ricky,
I was thinking about you the other day and called your "old man" to check in on him. We talked about you for a bit but thought I would leave you some words on how much I miss you. ..Its hard to believe a year has already passed since you left this earth and made the journey to onward. This world has surely missed your great sense of humor, charming personality and devilishly handsome smile. I have missed all that plus your wonderful massages.
I am truly honored that I got to share a bond with you strong enough that you felt comfortable to call me friend and mom. I think about our late night talks in the driveway over a beer and remember all too well how you would come home with pure excitement and heart pounding fear because you got "another" tattoo. You couldn't wait to show me but only after making me swear I wouldn't tell your dad, for fear you'd get kicked out. Thank you Ricky for trusting in me and know this.. I never told!
I think of you now as a ray of light shining down and believe heaven is the one who is truly blessed because they have you.
No matter the circumstances.. you are always in my prayers.

381,
Dara (as your dad likes to call me)

Eliza Gaytan

July 23, 2008

Richard, Angela and Hejna family,
I know that words do not take away the deep pain you feel at the loss of your beloved Ricky. I along with many others pray for you that you will have the stregnth to go through this trying time. Take comfort in knowing that life doesn't end on this earthly experience and one day you will be reunited and again be able to embrace Ricky.

Tara Simon

July 23, 2008

To Ricks family, I hope you are still finding strength in Rickys memories. I love you all.

July 22, 2008

To all who've cared so much to write. To all my friends and family, Richard's friends, Ange's friends, Ricky's friends -- all our adopted children -- the list is endless.

As I said in one of my very first messages on this site -- thank you all for writing and expressing your joy at knowing Ricky -- or your support and love for me, Ange or Rick -- there will never be enough words to tell you how much your loving words were appreciated at a time when we truly needed a loving balm for our souls.

Thank you for loving our beautiful and very special child, who grew to be an amazing man and dad. Thanking you for thinking of us all and extending your sympathy and comfort. Each of you has helped us a little more each day, putting another inch of bandage over our breaking hearts. Yes, things will get better some day, and I want to thank you all for your part in that.

Love,
Silvia

Silvia Smith

July 22, 2008

To my baby,

We have suffered so without you and you are in our thoughts constantly. A short while ago, peaking through the tears and pain was a realization -- that more than anything -- I just MISS YOU.

I remember the first time I tried to reprimand you for "something," whatever it was --that summer when you seemed to grow a foot taller overnight. You were laughing at me and I started laughing and you picked me up, threw me over your shoulder, walked up the stairs, and threw me on my bed. Well, I guess you showed me that getting you to listen to me from that point on was going to be a NEW challenge.

And I remember when you got your tongue pierced and hid it from me. But we were talking one day close together and something I said made you laugh so hard - you opened your mouth and since I was so much shorter I found myself looking inside your mouth - and lo and behold - what did I see stuck in your tongue ! I wanted to beat your butt but I couldn't help just laughing and shaking my head...Ange told me just today that it was at least a week before I even saw it - and of course, she conspired with you to keep it from me and your dad.

Today, we told only good stories. The tears came and went, and came again - the longing was there, full force -- as it always will be. I brought Grandma there again in the afternoon. She got you that jasmine plant you wanted, to shade your plaque just a little. She hurts, babe.

We ALL hurt. We all love you so much that words will never be able to even come close. I miss and long for you every day. Words to a song, a familiar melody, listening to the CDs you made for me, looking at all your pictures in my office that keep me going during the day.

I have a hard time believing in a good God that lets this happen. But Grandma said something very profound today. That we HAVE to believe in God, because if we don't, it just makes the pain of this more unbearable.

I love you son, and coming to see you one day will be the thing that sustains me through life. Mel gave us some "Ricky" music to help us through. One phrase -- "when you're dreaming with a broken heart -- the waking up is the hardest part." That, unfortunately, is very true, so please hold my hand in my dreams and bless me with a kiss on my cheek, and leave me a new memory.

Love,
Mama

Josh Wozniak

July 22, 2008

Ricky...I knew this day would come and go way to fast. Faster than it should have. This past year you have been on my mind more than words can express. Everyday I think of you and how I miss talking to you. Ricky, know this that the time will come when we meet again and I can't look forward to that soon enough. Take care my friend and I will see you soon!

Sandi Hejna

July 22, 2008

Ricky, a year has gone but the tears haven't. I wonder if they ever will. My love and heartfelt thoughts go out to Ange, Rik, Sil and Rosie every day. Ricky keep watching over them and give them strength. Ricky also know that my dad probably has an ACE in his pocket :). Love you!

DOUG WHITE

July 22, 2008

ITS HARD TO BELIVE ITS BEEN A YEAR ALREADY SINCE MY GOOD FRIEND RICHARD LOST HIS BELOVED SON. I DID NOT KNOW HIS SON RICHARD BUT I KNOW THESE TIMES IN LIFE ARE SO VERY HARD. BE STRONG RICHARD I AM THINKING OF YOU TODAY.

Wayne Macklem

July 22, 2008

MY DEAR FRIEND. I DIDN'T REALLY KNOW YOU AS MUCH AS I WISH THAT I COULD HAVE, BUT I KNOW YOUR FATHER PRETTY WELL AND HE HAS TOLD ME MUCH ABOUT YOU. I KNOW THAT YOU ARE DOING WELL IN HEAVEN AND THAT EVERYONE MISSES YOU VERY MUCH. LOOK OVER ALL OF US AND WE WILL ALWAYS KEEP YOU IN OUR PRAYERS. BYE FOR NOW YOUR FRIEND WAYNE.

Terrilee Prentiss-Todd

July 22, 2008

Sylvia and Angie - I know this has been an extremely difficult year for both of you. I am so thankful that Jason has been a part of your lives and will continue to do so. Know that a day does not go by that I don't think of both of you and pray that you find some comfort in knowing how truly special Rick was to Jason and me. Rick will always hold a very special place in my heart. My prayers are always with you both.

Love, Terri Prentiss-Todd

Silvia Kozubowski

July 22, 2008

Sil, Ange, Rick & family,

It is hard to believe that a year has gone by and not a day goes by where Ricky and all of you are on my mind. I know Ricky is watching over you and the rest of the family and giving you strength you need during this time.

Love you,

Your Cousin Sil

Kim Carey

July 22, 2008

Dear Richard and Family,
Birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, mondays, fridays.... it really doesn't matter. The pain of losing one of your children is the same every day. These "special" days just serve as a reminder of how much more we miss them.
Please take some comfort in knowing that those that love Ricky are thinking of him even more today. And those that love you are holding you up in prayer. I like to think that your Ricky and our Beth have become friends in heaven , it sounds like they had similar sweet and sensitive souls. I know in my heart that will see them again !
Sincerely, TC and Kim

Melissa Lopez

July 22, 2008

Ricky,

I cannot believe a year has passed without you. Everyone misses you so much, but I know you are watching over your family and giving them strength. And I want to thank you for giving me strength as well. I pray to you every day, as you know, and I feel so honored to have known and loved you and your family.

Please continue to stay present in the hearts of your sister, dad and mom, and I promise that I will continue to the best of my ability to help them cope with the emptiness and pain they feel from your loss.

I love you Ricky, I miss you, I pray for you and to you, and I thank you for the strength you have given all of us who continue to speak to you and who keep y our memory alive.

Love, Melissa

Art Carpenter

July 22, 2008

Richard and Family,

I know the pain is still there and words can't take it away. Just know that you have friends who care and pray for you every day.

There will come a time when the tears will be swept away and all of your family will be together again.

Art Carpenter and Family

Roger Houle

July 22, 2008

Rick, I know this last year was a tough one for you and your family, and I hope ,with friends and family around, it will heal. My thoughts and Prayers are with you..God Bless. Roger

Robert Austin

July 21, 2008

Rich, Words cannot remove the pain a person has when they have lost a love one. But words can show that you are loved by your friends. Friends are always there to listen,give a hug or both. Your are my friend and if you need a hug or someone to talk to, please fill free to ask.

Holly White

July 12, 2008

Dearest Ricky,
You have been in my thoughts a LOT lately. I'm still missing you, but I guess that will not change. As we are coming to a year timeline, my take on you being in my thoughts so much more, is your way to tell me You are well, at peace and OK. Thanks, Love Holly
Still Missing you

Rich Shoemaker

July 11, 2008

"Old Man", I know this has been a tough, tough year for you and your family. The loss of a loved one isn't easy, even almost a year later. I pray that the next year might bring some comfort to you.

Ange

June 28, 2008

Hi Rick. I am thinking of you a lot...again....quite a few tears lately. Just wanted to let you know that I love you.

Old Man

June 18, 2008

Richard Charles, Fathers Day has come and gone and you are on my mind more today.

I remember every Fathers Day you would call me and wish me a happy Fathers Day and this was always followed by " hey old man, I forgot your birthday, happy birthday ". This became a ritual with you and I loved it.
This is you my son and this is what I loved about you more than anything. In my heart I can hear your voice and you saying the words but It will never be the same, until we meet again........

Angela sent me a voice mail/video with your beautiful smile and you saying the words, " I LOVE YOU ". I have played this message over and over again, I'm surprised I have not worn this message out.

I wanted you to know that on Fathers Day, Grandma Fran, Aunt Di, Uncle Dave, Aunt Sandi, Denika, Angela and I visited you and changed out your flowers and wished you a Happy Fathers Day.

I don't know if Kayliegh got to visit you but I do know that you will always be in her heart/soul as she is in yours............

I LOVE YOU SON !

Kim Starr

May 13, 2008

Richard and Angela,

Words seem inadequate to express the saddness I felt for you when I heard about the death of Ricky.

You have my deepest sympathy and my love and friendship always.

With Love and Hugs,

silvia smith

May 11, 2008

Angela used to laugh when I called you "babycakes," but you were and are my baby. There's not one day when you are not at the forefront of my mind. My tears fall, my lip quivers, but somehow, I have to go on. Today was mother's day. Angela was there for me, as she always is, but I could give anything to go back in time and change whatever I could to make it better. I love you and miss you so much. The hole in my heart is not healing and I need you in my dreams. I love you so much and always will. I miss you so much and always will. I hope you are at peace and happy, babe.

Love, Mom

Angela Hejna

May 10, 2008

Hi. I miss you so much. I miss your smile, your deep eyes, your sarcasm and your friendship. I wish that we could have continued knowing each other for years to come. I look forward to the day when we can. It is just not the same here without you. I love you.

Richard Hejna

April 21, 2008

Son, I just wanted you to know that I changed your flowers once again, as I do every month. I do not know why I am telling you this because I know you are with me while I am doing this. I have not not heard from you in awhile. I know that you are keeping Grandpa Rich, Papa Charlie and and Mr. Hankins entertained but don't forget about us, OK? I will talk with you soon.....Love You, Old Man

Aunt Sandi & Uncle Dave

March 22, 2008

Ricky,
This is our first Easter without you. Definately a void that cannot be filled. Hugs and kisses from us. Save a place at the dinner table for us because we know you will have more great stories for us when we get there as you always did in the past. Love forever and always.

Judy CUTITTA

March 21, 2008

Richard and Angela,
I am sorry I did not know about Rick sooner. My thoughts would have been with you quicker. Just know, I think about you guys on a daily basis and wish you peace, hope, and healing of your heart. I have reflected back on Rick and how I knew him and what a good decent young man he had become. Hugs all around. Judy

Holly White

February 27, 2008

Dear Ricky,
I read every new entry, my eyes fill with tears and "I miss seeing you". Everytime I call on the walkie for sales I think of you, I see your smile and I smile.
I miss you, EVERYDAY!
Love Holly

Richard Hejna

February 25, 2008

Richard Charles, yesterday son, you made me very angry and also made me cry. I have been cleaning out some boxes and came across your eagle blanket I bought you years ago. I sat and held it as you did for many years, and cried. I still miss you so much !, and I always will. I saw Johnny this week and he gave me your necklace with the Eagle and the Italian Horn that you broke awhile back. The necklace was very special too you and you wore it with pride, oh how you loved Eagles. I washed your blanket so I could give it to your sister and I also gave gave her your necklace. I just wanted you to know that you are always in my thoughts and always will be. I love you son, Old Man................

Sandi Hejna

February 23, 2008

Ricky, we miss you so much. As we spend more and more time with your daughter we realize how much she loves you and misses you dearly. Just letting you know, you'll always be in the hearts of so many. Love you, Aunt Sandi

Ange

February 13, 2008

You have been on my mind and I miss you a ton. Just wanted to tell you how much I love you.

toby

January 25, 2008

little ricky. not sure what to say or why i am typing right now. i guess it's because i just read some of the posts on here, and it made me think of how much i love you and the rest of our family. not sure if our paths will ever cross again, but please know you have a place in my heart. love you cuz.

Tara Simon

January 7, 2008

Silvia, Ange, and Les...
I hope in the new year you can find some comfort knowing Rick will never be forgotten. We love you so much and don't forget were here for you on your good days as well as your bad.
Love Jason and Tara

Kathy Fidis

January 5, 2008

Be Still

Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.

Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.

If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.

Melissa Lopez

January 1, 2008

To the entire Hejna Family,

I wanted to let all of you know that as we enter into this New Year, I wish for all of you the strength and courage to bring all of the loving memories you have of Ricky with you into this new year, and I wish you peace, love and the feeling of Ricky's presence.

I have been praying to Ricky so much and I really do feel that he is at peace. I have also been thinking of all of you and want to send my love to each of you this New Year.

We miss you Ricky.

Love, Melissa

Angela Hejna

December 24, 2007

Ricky,

Merry Christmas sweetheart. I miss you so much. It has been 5 long yet quick months without you. It still doesn't feel real.


Last week I made a couple of wishes (on 11:11). One was that you could feel/or hear how much I love you. The other was that you would come to me in a dream (because I usually don't remember any of them) - and you did. Thank you. It was brief, but sweet. It was you.

I love you yesterday, today, and always. Merry Christmas. I wish you were here.

Silvia Smith

November 22, 2007

Honey,

So sad that a day of Thanksgiving is also another anniversary of your death. I am TRYING to be thankful for the blessings we still have, but it is hard, so HARD.

You visited me in my dreams, finally, the other night. You were young, you were happy, you were so beautiful. We were together -- I touched you and then I woke up, sadly. I had tears, and smiles, all day. Thank you.

The only thing I could be truly grateful for is that you have found happiness and peace.

Stay with me. That's all I can say. I need you so.

Love,
Mom

Art Carpenter

November 21, 2007

I know this is a tough time in your life, but, know that you and your family have been in my family's prayers from the begining.

May God bless all of you.

Art and Family

Clint, Mary, Hunter and Chloe Collier

November 21, 2007

Angela-
I just wanted to let you know that I am praying for and thinking of you and your family this holiday season. I am so sorry for your loss and pray that God comforts you all. You know where I am if you ever need anything.

God Bless-
Mary, Clint, Hunter and Chloe Collier

Melissa Lopez

November 10, 2007

Ricky,

Jus thinking about you this evening and hoping you are watching over your family and loved ones. I know you are. You would have been so proud of your sister last week, she passed her board exams! She was so nervous and stressed thinking she may have to retake them, but you know Ange, always a fighter, and always so on the mark! She passed with flying colors. She continues to amaze me, even after knowing her for 26 years! She is coming out to San Diego next week to visit me, your mom and Les are coming too. I am looking forward to spending time with the family, and sharing some fun and memorable stories about you with eachother.

We all miss you so much, you are in our constant thoughts and prayers.

Love, Mel

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