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William R. Schraft

FUNERAL HOME

Brust Funeral Home - Lombard

135 South Main Street

Lombard, Illinois

William Schraft Obituary

William R. "Bill" Schraft, age 50, of Lombard, loving husband of Janet, nee Gentile, dedicated father of Michael, Scott and Jessica; devoted son of Charlotte and the late Robert E. Sr.; loving brother of Robert E. Jr. (Janice) and Charlene (James) Ruedel; proud uncle of many nieces and nephews and many other family and friends. Lying in State Saturday from 10 a.m. until the time of Funeral Service, 11 a.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 545 S. Ardmore Ave., Lombard. Visitation Friday from 2 to 9 at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard. Interment Arlington Cemetery. Info, toll-free,

888-629-0094.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Nov. 1, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for William Schraft

Sponsored by Ruby Miranda '96.

73 Entries

The Band be Goofy and Bill just smiling

Stephan Bates

December 4, 2007

I am deeply saddened to hear of Bill's passing. He has let me photograph his band for many years. He was always cordial and very nice. I will miss him. My photographers,staff and I send our condolences to his family and students.

Photo taken ~11.17.07

December 3, 2007

Jessa Leslie

November 22, 2007

Dear Schraft family...
I was shocked and saddenned to hear about Mr. Schraft's passing.
I have many fond memories or two trips to Disney World with him leading us, and a trip downstate when our team made it to state. He not only made school fun, but encouraged us all to do our best in everything. He not only was a teacher, but a friend to everyone.
He will be greatly missed.
Sincerely,
Jessa Leslie (House) Class of '95

Happy 38!

November 18, 2007

Joanna Bryson

November 17, 2007

I played percussion at GN from 1978-1982, and I certainly remember how much fun we had with Bill Schraft --- then the new assistant director, but with special focus on the percussion section since he was a drummer himself. I learned a ton from him.

Katie Grogan

November 13, 2007

I was shocked and saddened to hear of Mr. Schraft's recent passing. I was in band through my 4 years of high school (Class of 2001) and can't even begin to express what a positive impact Mr. Schraft had on my life and on my high school experience especially. For me, high school was a time of searching and trying to find where I fit in. Despite my sometimes apathetic attitude towards school, (band included), Mr. Schraft was always a source of encouragement and inspiration and was one of the main reasons I stuck with band through all 4 years of high school. He constantly challenged me and always had such a great deal of faith in me. Even though I didn't always put the necessary effort into practicing my instrument, Mr. Schraft put me in Symphonic Band and inspired me (through his incredible faith in me) to fall in love with music and not let my talent go wasted. Most importantly, he helped me to believe in myself at such a crucial time in my life. I will never forget how supportive he was and how much he stood behind me. What made Mr. Schraft a truly extraordinary teacher, however, was his dedication and how much he truly cared for his students. With his "Schraftisms" and his many anectdotes, he taught me as much about life in his class as he did about music. It's difficult to make sense of things when such a great man is taken from us so prematurely. However, I am assured that he fulfilled a great purpose in his time with us and I take comfort in how much his influence has lived on in so many of those whose lives he touched in such important ways. To the family of Mr. Schraft: I am sorry for your loss and I hope you can take comfort in the wonderful impact he had on so many....he will truly be missed!!! I only wish I could thank him for having so much faith in me and being such a positive influence in my life.

November 8, 2007

We just saw the news...We are so sorry...We read and reread the article about Bill. Janet, Mike, Scott, and Jess, please accept our heartfelt sympathy. Bill's legacy will be all your wonderful memories and all the lives he influenced. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Ron, Geri, Nick, and Stephen DeFalco

Allysan Wielunski

November 7, 2007

My heart sank when I heard of Mr. Schraft's passing.. All these memories from, band trips(I learned you can never have to much fun on a bus!), frozen football games, singing telogram surprise parties, Lake Geneva, and every thing he did for me back in the day, came flooding back. I still find myself watching the turn signals of the cars in front of me, hearing his voice in my head.

Mr. Shraft was the most decidated teacher I ever knew. The things he did for his students will never be forgotten. Everyone in his extended band family has their own special memories of how he helped them in their most formative years. So many lives have been touched by him, even with his passing he has reunited old friends. What an amazing person! He will truly be missed.

Mark, Cyndi, Nicole, Ashley, Dakota & Taylor Toppett

November 6, 2007

Dear Janet, Mike, Scott & Jessica,

Your husband & father has been a blessing in so many lives, including ours. Words can't express the love & strength he has shown his family. Your heart must fill with pride, for all he has been to his family & friends.

God Bless All of you!

Rick Catalano, Class of 84

November 6, 2007

Dear Schraft Family,

I am in complete shock over the news of Mr Schraft's passing. Mr Schraft was always great to me, showed concern for my academic and musical development and pushed me to be a better musician.

One of my fondest (and funniest) memories of Mr Schraft was my Freshman year when he called me in for lunch to have a trumpet sectional. I was very nervous having to actually play side-by-side with my teacher. After about 5 minutes I realized that he could not play trumpet worth a darn (at least back in those days). It was a great (comic) relief the rest of the sectional.

Just reliving that story brings a smile to my face as I hope it does to yours.

God Bless all of you in your time of loss. He will be missed.

Bob & Til Post

November 6, 2007

Dear Janet, Mike, Scott & Jessica,

We wish we could of been there with you at this time. Everyone has our deepest, heart felt, Christian sympathy. We got to know Bill as (Scott's dad) such a loving husband & father, we truly could see. We also are very thankful that our granddaughter Nicole got to witness this, as she deeply learned to care for both parents.

He is now (safe in the arms of Jesus), no more pain, no more sorrow... May God comfort you, give you peace & guide you through this new adjustment in your daily lives.

Our love, thoughts & prayers are with all of you.

Mike Yonan

November 5, 2007

Wow, what a shock to us all. I have so many great memories of Mr. Schraft. From raising his hands to conduct and then quickly turning his wrist to check the time, to the rolled up sleeves, to his reaction when certain members of the class of '84 percussion section swung the animal puppet in front of the crowd during Dixieland Downbeat. Great memories of Florida - marching through Disney in the rain...the way the guy firmly, yet thoughtfully instilled music into us all. Playing the drums during my high school years and having Bill and Lou as teachers was a great time of my life. It's really hard to believe that he's gone. My deepest sympathies to his family in this difficult time.

1982 "Keeping the bus on the road!"

November 5, 2007

1981 William Schraft

November 5, 2007

1980 William Schraft

November 5, 2007

1982 Concert Band Group shot

November 5, 2007

1981 Conducting the GN Concert Band

November 5, 2007

Scot Yonan

November 5, 2007

I'm saddened to hear of Mr. Schraft's passing, but I am happy to see so many people whose lives were changed for the better because of Mr. Schraft's teachings. He was a wonderful man who had genuine passion for music and imparted that passion onto so many of us. You'll be missed, Mr. Schraft.

1979 Concert Band

Luis Ramirez (class of '82)

November 5, 2007

1979-1982: Bill was a wonderful musician and educator. He had us play some challenging but fun musical repertoire. It was a blast having him play along with the perc line during Pep Band! Bill, you will be missed. My prayers go out to Janet and the kids.

Noelle (Himmy) Kaushik class of '85

November 5, 2007

Like many other former students, I have so many good memories of our life in band and Mr. Schraft was definitely one of them. He was a little quiet but so nice and calm - it rare if you saw him lose his patience. I remember on our band trip to Orlando in '84 that Mr. Schraft's wife was expecting their first baby. I thought that was a pretty neat thing for her to do - trek out to FL on a bus with a bunch of crazy high school kids. I'm sorry for your loss and my thoughts are with you, Janet and your family.

Robyn Meyer Class of 87

November 4, 2007

To the family of Mr. Schraft,

I just received an email with the sad news of Mr. Schraft's passing. My deepest sympathies go out to your family. Mr. Schraft was the greatest. I will always remember when our band performed down in Florida over 20 years ago. I still have the pictures too. He will be truly missed by everyone's life that he touched. May the Lord be with your family in this sad time.

Sarah Allen (Wennerholm)

November 4, 2007

My heart sank at this news. I was another student of Mr. Schraft's and have countless fond memories of him and his teachings that will last a lifetime. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. He was a beautiful honorable man and will be missed greatly.

Laura (Needleman) Stypinski

November 3, 2007

Dear Schraft Family,

Today as I scanned the Friday paper, I was shocked to come across a name familiar to me. It has been a very long time since I have seen "Mr. Bill". Janet will remember that. I remember seeing him and Janet together every weekend. I was friends with Cheryl Williams and her family and spent many weekends at the Camp Lake Cottage in Wisconsin. He was a very special and funny person. Cheryl and I loved to joke around with him. Sorry for your loss. My thoughts and Prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Tony, Suzanne, Angie and Gina Pusateri

November 3, 2007

Dear Janet, Mike, Scott, and Jess,

Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Bill touched the lives of so many people. He will be truly missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with you always.

Bobbie Kvasnicka

November 3, 2007

To The Family of Mr. Schraft,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. All three of our children were involved in band at GNHS - class of '84,'88 and '90. Bill was a wonderful teacher and person.

With deepest sympathy,
The Kvasnicka Family

From Ruby Miranda ... pix from 11/1992

November 2, 2007

Sunny K class of '89

November 2, 2007

Played trumpet for 4 years at Glenbard North. One of my fondest memories of high school was one day having my mom call me in sick and then going to school anyway and playing my trumpet all day in one of the practice rooms. Mr. Schraft never said a thing. I still laugh about it today. Thank you for your kindness and the memories, Mr Schraft!

Natalie (McLeister) Smith

November 2, 2007

Dear Schraft Family,

I spent all four years (88-91) of high school in the band and have many fond memories. I was shocked to hear of his passing. I am sorry I wasn't able to come in person to pay my respects.

I pray that the peace that only God can give will be a comfort to you during this difficult time and that the many wonderful memories countless poeple will tell in the next few days will be of some comfort.

Robert Sbertoli

November 2, 2007

Dear Schraft family and friends,

My sympathy first of all to all of Mr. Schraft's family and friends. A great man has been lost. He was a very influential man in my life and in the lives of countless others. He will truly be missed, but his legacy will live on forever.

Stacey Wasik -- (Class of '95)

November 2, 2007

What can I say...my heart has taken a punch. Although it's been many moons since I last saw ol' 'Bungalow Bill', I've been blessed with many, many cherished memories. To the many mischievous hours in 'study hall' -- (also known as the Band Room), to the surprise birthday Rent-A-Priest fiasco (who brought the kid??). Even to the "are you guys sick?!" house call made after one of the many bone-chillin' football games. Hey, if you ever want to creep the pants off one of your teachers show up at their house after 10 o'clock at night with 4 of your friends and offer to paint the house. But I bet they'll never tug you and all your prom buddies across Lake Geneva on their boat afterwards! (He was a great captain).

Ahh, there were so many blessed days with 'Schraft'...Though, I'm sure he felt he was babysitting more than actually teaching. But that was the beauty of the man...no matter how many nerves you pinched in his body, he was always there for you...ready to help, always good for a laugh. Of course, the laughing came long after the ol' knee shake and hand rubbin' (I know some of you know what I mean!)

I’ll always long for that last chance that was missed to see Mr. Schraft. But until my time comes ‘round to see him at the Big Gate, I will forever tell of our many experiences and keep him close to my heart.

With deepest sympathy,

THE CODDINGTON FAMILY

November 2, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Bill touched MANY hearts and was respected by all. He will be greatly missed.

Sharon Frys

November 2, 2007

Personally, and on behalf of Community Consolidated School District 93, I would like to share my deepest sympathy. Bill has had played a significant role in the lives of so many of our students who progessed to GNHS. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Katherine Opela

November 2, 2007

To The family of Mr Schraft,

All four of my children were involved in the music department and Mr Schraft was a great influence in keeping them involved at school. He was a caring and motivational spirit who will never be forgotten.

Skip Dusik

November 2, 2007

Our prayers are with Bill's family. I can honestly say Bill was a true gentleman, good friend and a person you could never find fault with. The boating community will truly miss him. Commodore Schraft "I salute you".
Tommi & Skip Dusik

Loretta Olson Zainine

November 2, 2007

Dear Schraft Family:

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Schraft was a great teacher who will surely be missed by all of his students. I remember him as a kind man who shared his enthusiasm for music in a mellow way. He expanded our musical horizons beyond the band room and concerts, including competitions, marching band, parades, pep bands and a great road trip to Washington DC (way back in '81 or '82).

My deepest condolences to you and your family....

Sincerely,
Loretta Olson Zainine
GN '84

Kim Bradner (meyer) Class of '85

November 2, 2007

Schraft Family & GBN has lost a great "leader". As a former band member..Mr Schraft left an impact on many with his music talent. We had great times learning our music, marching, traveling and developing great friendships. The band room truly was a "second home" and Mr. Schraft always made you feel welcome.

Emily,Richard,Mariel,Krista Hildenbrnd

November 2, 2007

Our entire family is saddened by your loss. Our daughter Mariel is stage managing a play at college this weekend and cannot come home, but she says alot of the others that she went to Glenbard with will be there for her. Our youngest was around Bill whenever she was with the band members who she grew up with. Their intense love of Bill shows how wonderful he was. We are all going to miss him. Thank you for sharing him with us. We will pray for strength and guidance with your great loss.

diane gergoe

November 2, 2007

I'm so glad I got to see Bill and the family last week. I 'm so sorry I can't be there now. My love and prayers go out to You and all who will feel this great loss. love,Diane Gergoe

Lauren Deuchert

November 2, 2007

To the Schraft Family and Glenbard North Family,

My deepest sympathy on the passing of Mr. Schraft. While I was not in band, I had Mr. Schraft my freshman year in chorus. He knew how to motivate us, and make us excel. He will be truly missed.

Lauren(Haga)Deuchert
Class of 1985

Michael Jankiewicz

November 2, 2007

To the Schraft family,

We share our deepest sympathies with you. Please know that Bill touched so many lives in positive ways. He was truly a "gentle man" that went out of his way to help his students and their families. We will fondly remember him for all that he has done for our children. We are grateful for having known Bill. He played an important role in our children's lives.

Alice A Schroeder

November 2, 2007

Dear Family,
We cannot begin to express our shock and our sadness at the loss of our dear cousin Bill. We have no words that would begin to cover the impact that he had on the lives he touched. He was a quiet man, but so full of fun. He was the ideal husband, father and son. Even as a little guy when he used to ask to play Uncle Laird's drums, we knew he would one day specialize in music. Our hearts go out to you and may God comfort you and carry all of you through this. I wish I could be there in person but with everyone's schedules I have nobody to care for Misty. I love you all and am saddened more than you know. Love, Alice & family

Sharon Schneider-Laske

November 2, 2007

Aunt Janet, Mike, Scott & Jess,

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time of sadness.
Being the first niece, Uncle Bill was only 5 years old when I was born, pretty young to be an Uncle. While growing up and visiting Gram & Grandpa, Uncle Bill’s main concern was keeping me out of his room, away from his drums! I was such a pain, but he did eventually give in & let me play.
I remember the band uniforms and watching him play the drums & the parades,summers at the cottage.
It was Uncle Bill I was dancing with at Lauren’s wedding when the infamous swing & twist right into the loaded dish cart occurred, dishes went flying with a huge crash.
So then it was the joke with us “do ya want to dance” at social events.
Things won’t be the same without him, I will always remember the good times.

Karen Ledet

November 2, 2007

I had the pleasure of working at GBN and getting to know Bill better in the past several years. His positive attitute, good outlook, wink and a smile will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you Janet and your family.

Stacy (Kuznitsky) Ross

November 2, 2007

I was never in the GBN band, but I was very active in choir and my parents were active with the music boosters. Even though I was not one of Mr. Schraft's students, he still took time to get to know any student who spent time in his band room and tried to make a connection with them. On visits back to GBN I would always make sure to stop in and say hello and he would always seem genuinely pleased to see me. As one of many who left GBN's music department to persue a career in music education (a testiment to the programs there), he was always interested in where life had led me so far. He was a blessing to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. My thoughts, love and prayers go out to not only his family at home, but also to his family in the music department as well. He will be missed.

Debbie Leonard

November 2, 2007

To the Schraft family,

Our deepest sympathies for your loss. Bill touched the lives of so many people. He will be truly missed.

Thank you for sharing him with us. He was an amazing person.

Natalie Hammer GBN '05

Sonia Das (Class of 1993)

November 2, 2007

My deepest sympathies to the Schraft family. Mr. Schraft’s energy, personality and love for his students and his work touched and inspired anyone and everyone who had contact with him. Years after graduating, the fondest memories my friends and I have from high school involve Mr. Schraft, his band, and the band room. Mr. Schraft taught me that with initiative and determination, you can achieve great heights. I am honored to have had the privilege of being his student. The world has lost a wonderful man who will be missed by many.

Ronald Polancich

November 2, 2007

Bill Schraft was a wonderful band director and true friend. He visited York often and was an excellent solo adjudicator/clinician for York percussionists. His positive encouragement, warm smile and terrific patience were key traits that he offered when working with band students. His talents touched many and his kindness touched all.

The music education world lost a giant and Bill Schraft will be missed.

Ronald H. Polancich
Director of Bands
Music Department Chair
York Community High School

Pam DeGroot

November 2, 2007

To the Schraft family, my sincerest sympathies.

When I think of Mr. Schraft I remember the four end of the year concerts I attended. I remember how each graduating class tried to out do the last by providing a memento. I wonder what happened to the book of “Shraftisms”, and if that is something that could be posted to the web for all to share. The kindness and encouragement that Bill had for all will live on in our hearts. I know that my daughter Regis cherishes her seeing him at homecoming, and will never forget how he influenced her life.

Susan Baaske-Peplow

November 2, 2007

Although I didn't know Mr. Schraft personally, I had many friends in band during my highschool years (class of 1985). I now have a daughter at GBN and some of her friends have had him as a teacher. We are all saddend by this sudden loss. I will always remember the stories/memories friends have shared with me over the years. May God bless your family during this time of sorrow.

Jennifer Thomas

November 2, 2007

Mr. Shraft was an Amazing man! I was not a student of his but I did care for him dearly as I was in choir. I remember he took me under his wing When we went on a music dept trip to Canada! He held my hand all the way to the top of the of the CN Tower because I was terrified of heights! He was also just a wonderful Man. He always asked my mom how I was doing after I left GBN since she works there! He truely has been an inspiration to me! :) May God Bless all of you! Know that now he is in the hands of the Lord!

Ruby Miranda

November 2, 2007

Dear Schraft Family,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mr. Schraft was a wonderful man, mentor, and overall---a great friend. He knew how to make all of us laugh and have a great time. He will truely be missed by all. I know I will miss him.

Sue Wexler

November 1, 2007

I knew his as Mr. Shraft because my daughter would talk about what a wonderful teacher he was. He would listen to the students and was an inspiration to many. As many others have noted he helped the students to appreciate music. My daughter, like many others he taught went into music education largely because of his inspiration. Thanks for all he did for the students.

Kristine Harrison(Trudeau)

November 1, 2007

I had the honor babysitting for the Schraft family. Mr. Schraft, I still cannot call him Bill:), and Janet taught me what a marriage should look like, balance between work, kids and each other. Mr. Schraft enjoyed life and has touched so many others lives including my sister's. His hot little red head will remember him forever, as will her brunette sister.

Bruce and Kathy Moss

November 1, 2007

My condolences to Janet and family. Bill was a true gentleman, a class act in every way, a genuine teacher who cared and did the right things for the right reasons for his students. I always enjoyed my time with him professionally in music, and am saddened to hear of his untimely passing. All involved with the Wheaton Municipal Band, as well as directors and students throughout the Chicago suburbs will miss him greatly.
Sincerely,
Bruce Moss
Wheaton Municipal Band
Bowling Green State University

Alan Shlachter

November 1, 2007

Janet, Jessica, Michael & Scott,

What can we say. As all others, we were shocked and devastated to hear of the loss of Bill. We have already spoken with Ruby, who reacted the same.

Our first instinct was to call, however, I am sure you have hundreds of phone calls and visitors, as Bill was THE man, loved by ALL.

Our thoughts and prayers are for you that you somehow get thru the rest of this week and then somehow begin to heal (if it is at all possible).

We think back to our meal together at Walker's Pancake house back in early Fall of 2002 and now, in retrospect, are so glad to have seen you with Ruby just before she went off to NYU for grad school. We will forever cherish that day and are glad it wasn't in the far too distant past. Although I had lunch with Bill just before we moved to Vegas in June of 2003, I am glad we had our Family Visit with you in 2002.

We WILL call you in the next 2-3 weeks to see how you are getting along.

Again, we are SO sorry and offer our prayers for ALL of you.

As ever,
Alan, Gloria, and Ruby

Lisa Kiener-Barnett

November 1, 2007

I knew Bill as an fellow educator and adjudicator. As a young teacher I valued his advise and wisdom each time he judged my band. His insightful comments always gave me something to think about and to strive for with my own students. After I became Dist. 7 Chair of IGSMA, he was one of the first people I contacted to judge for us each year. With every correspondence he sent me regarding judging, he would include the words "I'll do whatever I can to help". That is how I will always remember him. The music education profession has lost a great mentor and friend. My sincere condolences to Bill and his family at this difficult time.

Phil Smith

November 1, 2007

I am not part of the Band....but I would hear the stories of the GNB and much he loved working with all his students over the years.I knew Bill on a personal basis and enjoyed many good times with him

I was with Bill in Lake Geneva tooling around his boat back in August. Bill's spirit was second to none....his attitude was that he could walk on water and that he would fight his health challenges.... his love of life, family, and his BAND meant everything to him.

This loss is by no means fair. I have many questions that I will someday ask at the pearly gates. God has a plan. At least that is what I have been told many times. Celebrate Bill's life like you know he would want it....and make it a weekend that people will talk about for the rest of their lives.

I am fortunate to have met such an incredible man, and someone I called a friend. Prayers and peace as you celebrate a mentor, teacher, family member and friend.

My condolences to the Schraft family, Glenbard North, and the students he taught,

Prayers....and God Bless!

Phil Smith
Ft Worth, TX

Chauntelle O'Loughlin

November 1, 2007

I became a music teacher because of the wonderful experience I had in high school band. I never would have done that with out such a positive role model. Mr. Schraft was so patient with us, even when we pushed the limits, and acted like typical high school jerks. (Softball, anyone?) I emailed him last year, and he said that the years he had our class (class of ’93) were some of his fondest memories. He probably felt that way about all of his classes, but for me, being in music was absolutely the best part of high school. Mr. Schraft will be missed.

Kris and Rich Drexler

November 1, 2007

Mr. Schraft was such a wonderful teacher and mentor. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing him occasionally over the years. He will always be a part of the GBN family. Our prayers are with his family, friends and the students (past and present) of GBN.

Kelly (Reuter) Campbell

November 1, 2007

Mr. Schraft was such an inspiration to me. He's the reason I majored in music education - I wanted to be just like him. He touched so many people, including myself. This is such a tragic loss. My prayers are with him and his family.

Nicole Bauer

November 1, 2007

I am deeply sorry for the entire Schraft family for their loss. Mr.Schraft will be deeply missed at Glenbard North. His smile lit up the room, even if it was a little one when he winked at you, even that just lit up the entire room. I've only got to know him good within the past months of school and he it a really fun loving, easy-going, optimistic guy. He is always happy and will make you smile and be happy when your down. Mr.Schraft you made the band room a second home for us, thank you for that and for all the memories you've left all the band and choir students here at Glenbard North. You will always be in my heart and in my thoughts. You've taught me so much about music and I thank you for that too. I'll miss you Mr.Schraft {I'll make sure Mr.Esquvial behaves} just kidding. I miss you Mr.Schraft and I will always be thinking of you.

Christian Goepel

November 1, 2007

Doubtless, Bill Schraft will be missed for his mentoring, sense of humor, idiosyncrasies, and musical talents. His dedicated and tireless efforts on behalf of the Glenbard North music department in general and the stalwart class of 1993 in particular have not been forgotten. As his family and students can attest, Bill had a genuinely positive affect upon music education and the lives of many.

Patrick Barnett

November 1, 2007

I had the opportunity to judge with Bill at many Illinois Grade School Music Association Contests over the past 15 years. He was a nice guy and although I never saw him work with his own students at Glenbard North, it was clear that he knew his stuff and was passionate about music making. The music education profession has outstanding leader.

My thoughts and prayers are with the Schraft family during this difficult time.

Patrick Barnett
Director of Choirs
Maine Township High School East

Prospect High School Music Department

November 1, 2007

Our thoughts are with the Schraft family.

Lea (Dashiell) Langhoff

November 1, 2007

Mr. Schraft was my mentor and eventually my colleague. As a Band Director I try to remember the way he taught and try to be like him. He influenced my career and my life in so many ways. He always made me feel better about myself and my abilities as a musician. He challenged me, encouraged me, and pushed me to make choices I am so glad I made. Class of 1995.

Rob Skidmore

November 1, 2007

I am shocked and saddened by the news. Mr. Schraft truely was a mentor to me. I know that he was just "doing his job", but he taught me so much. He really cared and I will never forget him.

Rob Skidmore
Class of '86

David Benham

November 1, 2007

Bill Schraft was a dedicated and passionate person. He was responsible in many ways (even more than he probably ever realized) for the person I am today. He's one of the few teachers I've remained in touch with since I graduated, and that is a testimony to just how much he affected those who came across his path. His passing leaves a tremendous hole in many lives and he will be missed my many. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his 'extended' school family as everyone copes with this tremendous loss.

David Benham
Class of '93

Dan Whitezell

November 1, 2007

Our sincere sympathies to Bill's family. He was a mentor to many at GBN, with one of our own following him into the music educator profession. He will be missed by all that knew him and studied under him.

Tracie (Vaughn) Bostwick

November 1, 2007

My sincerest sympathies to the Schraft family. I was in the band at Glenbard North when he started there. Excellent teacher; wonderful man. My prayers are with you.

Kim Baldyga

November 1, 2007

Dear Schraft Family,

His memory ensures "the beat goes on".

Mr. & Mrs. Brian Baldyga,
Alex(class of 2002), & Whitney(class of 2008)

Mark Corey

November 1, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. My prayers go out to his wife and kids. Bill was an excellent teacher and musician. I had many occassions to work with Bill through IMEA and as an adjucator for IGSMA. I am proud to say that I knew him and could call him a friend. He will be missed.

Traci Bowering (Typlin)

November 1, 2007

My sincere condolences to the family on the passing of Bill. He was a wonderful mentor to me during my first year teaching and I will always remember him.

Rachel Ririe

November 1, 2007

Dear Schraft family,

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You have my sympathies. I am so heartbroken. Mr. Schraft was wonderful teacher and person. I am so fortunate to have been one of his students.

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