This week in the parish we had the funeral of Joe Vraca. It was well attended with approximately 900 people in attendance. I am sure they were from all ‘walks of life’ that was the impact that Joe had on people. Some of his family from Italy managed to arrive here in time for the funeral.
There were several tributes about him in the Shepparton papers and then one on the day of the funeral. He was a very placid and gentle man. He saw an opportunity and he would capitalize on it. This was evident in the way he saw how tomatoes were grown and picked and sold. He tripled the production on his father-in-law’s farm and that was the beginning of Joe becoming a legend on how tomatoes were grown and sold throughout the industry.
There was a Rosary recited the evening before the funeral and the church was packed which would mean nearly 400 people. Many who came took the opportunity of condolences afterwards.
After the funeral the next day the condolences still went for well over an hour. Many took their leave and departed, so mainly family, relations and friends went to the cemetery. It was a wonderful tribute to a very popular man who never forgot his humble beginnings and the things that were important – family, friends, work ethic and a handshake was the trust he had in people. His generosity will be remembered by many including our parish and his help in making a dream of mine become a reality – the lovely new entrance to the church.
Fr Michael Morley
Parish Priest
11 January 2019
