In Memory of Ramsay D. Seielstad

It was very clear to me after the service on Saturday that I needed to share what we had learned and witnessed.  I have thought for 17 years that I knew RD.  One could never have been so wrong!  The only thing I seem to have been right about was that he was a big teddy bear with a giant heart that made sure to keep that a secret (although not as well done as he thought). 

Upon his passing the decision was made that as a family we would grieve on our own terms and there would be no service.  What we did not know about was this other family he had, an amazing group of co-workers, friends, camping mates, dinner companions  (at BL's Tavern)...and more!  They needed closure.  After a week or so, they knew just what they wanted to do and left no stone unturned but managed to keep it true to what everyone knew Ramsay would want (he may be cursing us all a little for the fuss, but this too shall pass).

On Friday, October 8th, a flag flew at the Schenectady Police Department, half staff for some of the day, in his honor.  It had been purchased specifically for this honor. 

Saturday, October 9th at 10:00am, there was a "simple memorial service" to help those in attendance find some closure and honor the man that they already miss so dearly.  The Chief of Police, the Chief of the Fire Department, A representative officer from the local Hamm operators club, a shift supervisor from the dispatchers all spoke of this gentle giant, closet genious, generous man, friend and beloved family member.  We learned more about our Ramsay that morning than we ever knew.

During the service, they retired his official dispatch designation of DS1, it will never be assigned again.  They played the recording of the last call he ever took, where he so calmly and gently talked a woman through a loved one with a medical condition as he dispatched a peramedic team to her location, they ceremoniously lowered a flag, folded it and presented it to Erik.  Benedictions were given by a chaplain.  It was an amazing phenominal experience that will not soon be forgotten.  Donald, Erik, Morgan, Riley and myself were glad to have been witness to this service so obviously filled with true feelings.

At the end of the service we were presented with a beautiful case to place the flag in.  There were a number of people wearing shirts that said, RAMSAY, 00:00, Straight Up, Off the Air, 9-16-10.  It was so moving!

BL's Tavern was closed to the public for that day, and was filled with a steady stream of Ramsay's Schenectady (and many surrounding areas) family for the day.  We had a chance to speak to many of them and learned about camping trips and road trips and special times just spent at the bar.  It seems that on BL's Menu there is a Ramsay Burger (only 1 pound of beef!) and at Merino's Pizza if you call and order the Ramsay special you will get double pepperoni, double sausage and double garlic!

It was an absolutely beautiful way to celebrate a life cut short.

Rest in Peace...