Ryszard Szafranski was a very popular and devoted friend and performer, and loving family member. He was always very young at heart (and in appearance!) who always brought a smile into any room. Music was his passion, and from a young age Rysz immersed himself with it, be it classical, jazz, rock, progressive or any other genre. A talented musician, he performed regularly and was very inclusive. His love of music was greatly respected and often he would find himself sought out from afar for his opinions and knowledge. A deeply spiritual and thoughtful man, Rysz also had a passion for other creative and artistic fields, encouraging others' talents and championing their work. He was also a great writer, placing his thoughts often in prose and poetry, always very personal but shared with all. When suddenly, out of the blue, Rysz developed Motor Neurone Disease, true to his character he did not allow it to control his life. He always remained positive, and as this horrible disease robbed him of mobility he continued to support and encourage others as long as he was able. He remained positive till the end and was a great support for those around him. Rysz tragically passed away peacefully at 3:30am on Tuesday 13th October 2009 surrounded by loved ones, set to embark on his "awfully big adventure" content that his legacy is one of love and support. We're certain that he is smiling down on us all as we say our goodbyes. To those he leaves behind, there is a gaping hole. Although his life was short, he filled many people's lives with love and hopefulness and will be greatly missed. No more so than by his beautiful wife Gillian, whom he married in a wonderful ceremony just a few weeks previously. Our hearts go out to her. It was Gillian whom Rysz would continually say made his life complete. Their love is one of the rarest and truest, and Rysz was devoted to her. Rysz would cite the Plato concept that each person is split in two at conception only to spend the rest of their days searching the world for that missing part of themselves to be made whole again. For Rysz, Gillian was that missing part that gave his life meaning. Rysz's funeral will be held on Wednesday 28th October at 12:15pm at St Maries church on Manchester Road in Bury. This will be followed by internment at Gigg Lane cemetery at 1:45pm. There will be a gathering to share memories afterwards at the Polish Club, Bury. NO FLOWERS PLEASE - there will be a collection at the church in lieu of flowers which will be donated to the Motor Neurone Disease Association. You can also donate via this website (just click donate above). No black dress please, please wear something bright and flamboyant - just as Rysz was!