Community members from surrounding counties came out to honor the memory of Caldwell's beloved mayor, Bernard Rychlik. At 71, his life came to a sudden end after a car accident Monday night. Although his funeral was Friday, the focus was not on Mayor Rychlik's death, but the life he lived because he touched so many.

Rychlik's eldest son, John, said, "Right before he goes to sleep, he gets up and takes a drive around town, just to make sure everything is OK...He was my hero."

Bernard Rychlik served as mayor of Caldwell for 18 years, sat on city council for 30 and worked for Woodson Lumber for 55 years. He was known as "Mr. Caldwell," but people like his son say these were just a few of the hats he wore.

"He was also "dad" and he was also a husband and the title he liked the best was being "grandpa,"" said John.

Johnny Price says its was great working with his childhood buddy every day, "Superman, city, friend, teacher, you name it, he's it."

Mayor Pro Tem, Norris McManus agreed, "I've enjoyed working with the man. I've been on the council since 2000. I've learned a lot from him, probably not near enough."

Hundreds of people filled the pews in St. Mary's Catholic Church and lined the walls to remember their friend, who left so suddenly.

"I was with Bernard...the night that it happened and it happened an hour later...unbelievable," remembered Johnny Price.

Bernard loved life and it's only fitting polka music was playing at his burial site at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetary.

"He was very much a part of the Czech culture and the music," said former Texas Polka Music Museum Board of Directors member, John Dujka.

Johnny Price summed it up with this, "I love him and that's it."

He always knew what to say, whether it was in person, or on camera...just like this interview he gave News 3 in the past.

"When you get ready to leave this earth, the only things you take with you are those you gave away...so I hope I gave away," said Bernard Rychlik.

When his son, John Rychlik, was asked what final message he would like to give to his dad, he answered, "{I} Just wanted to let him know, he gave it all away and that's what he wanted to do."