Tribute to Eugene "Willie" Olechnowicz

Hello, folks.

My name is Marc Olechnowicz. As you all know, the holidays are hard for many of us, and I am no exception. I am from Newport, Rhode Island. I have lived here all my life. My entire family lives here. I have lived in no other place except here in Newport. Let me get to the point. I have recently lost my family home; my brother died. His disability income helped pay for our bills, and I've lost my mental stability. I am also physically and mentally disabled. Right now, my best friend is my dog; he is all I have left in my life besides my mom. He and I live in my mother's car because when my brother died, my mother, who is soon to be 87, had to sell our family home of 52 years. I did not receive any royalties, and I am 58. All the money went for her care, as she now resides in an assisted living which caused me to become destitute. I am trying to create a fundraiser for my late brother,

Willie Olechnowicz. My brother passed away a year ago in October. He was a favorite fixture in the community where we lived in the Fifth Ward area of Newport, Rhode Island. People could always count on Willie's smile, and he was a lady's man. The ladies loved his smile and his Irish-American red hair. He was highly talented. He could tell the funniest jokes; he made his beaded jewelry himself. He loved taking walks on Wellington Avenue to listen to the summer bands and Thames Street and visiting the local bars where all knew him; by the way, he was no drinker. We have a famous park here in Newport called "King Park" which he loved visiting and enjoying the music concerts during the summer months. This month (December), I plan to have the Second Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at "King Park" near the gazebo, where he relaxes during the sweltering summer months. He would sit in this gazebo and converse with everyone who would listen. I miss my brother and would like to honor him.

I will be hosting the 2nd Annual Christmas Tree Lighting on the 4th of December from 5-6 p.m. All the activities will keep my brother, Willie Olechnowicz, in memory. Every benefactor or benefactress will be acknowledged during the opening ceremony and honor the deceased. I have also created an honorary Facebook page for my brother, Willie Olechnowicz. He will always be loved and remembered by family and friends.

I'm also encouraging everyone to bring an ornament in honor of a family member or friend to hang on the tree!