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Bill Smith
July 9, 2021
Great 16" softball player, best shortstop I ever saw
Steve Halicke
July 21, 2012
Sorry to read about Charlie Prazma's passing. We were classmates at York Center School. He was a great person (kid) back then too. Rest in Peace.
GOD have mercy on your soul.
Matt Lesko
April 4, 2012
"Charlie was very kind and special to everyone he met, he made a great impact."
jim bullinger
February 4, 2012
rest is peace
Bob Norman
February 3, 2012
Friday : Great Gig in the Sky for Charlie today.
p.s. Charlie : saw a bald eagle out in Elburn. Reminded me of you actually.
Les Carter
February 2, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of my cousin's passing. I grew up with Charlie's father, Charlie. I was separated from them by many miles but have fond memories of our times together. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
February 2, 2012
On behalf of Lincoln College, we send our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Charlie. We were very saddened to hear of his passing and send our thoughts and prayers. Larry Coveny just sent us a message letting us know how nice the funeral turned out and the outpouring of love and support shown by the many friends and family of Charile. The YouTube video of the "Bring It On Home" song was a delight to watch and I'm sure made Charlie smile~! Thoughts and prayers to the family and friends. ~The Lincoln College Alumni Office
Krista Pojman
January 29, 2012
I am very sorry for everyones loss. I know it must be hard losing someone you love. My condolences.
Bob Norman
January 27, 2012
Friday Night music lovers. Great Gig in the Sky tonight.
January 26, 2012
So sorry to learn of Charlie's death and the sadness in the entire family. His father was my dear cousin, and Audrey and I were in high school together, as well as my being a bride's maid in their wedding. I miss them all. Love Pat
Pat and Tom Wood
Robert Norman
January 20, 2012
Friday Night tonight - music night. Great Gig in the Sky before bed tonight.
For you Charlie.
Elburn, Illinois
Judy and Stuart Bailey
January 19, 2012
We are good friends of Cathy, Donald and Krista here in Kansas. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Cathy's big brother. Brothers are a special gift that can not be replaced. Our hearts and thoughts are with the entire family.
Kathy Voigt Efrusy
January 16, 2012
I just learned of Charlie's death and am saddened beyond words... We were friends at ISU during the 70's where I was lucky to live a floor below him at Manchester Hall. Not only his love of music, but his joy for life will always be remembered. My condolences to his family.
Sharon Neubauer
January 13, 2012
I am so very sorry to hear about Charlie. I just found out today.I wish I would have known sooner. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Sharon Neubauer and the York Center Park District Staff and Board of Commissioners.
Steve Prazma
January 13, 2012
My Dear Bro, today was the first day I had the strength to read all the beautiful memories of all the people who loved you. It is truly amazing to me that just being "Charlie" had such a great impact on so many people. I truly am blessed to have a big brother like you! I have comfort and peace knowing that you will always be watching over Michael, Lisa, Samantha, Taylor, Gavin, Keenan and Krista watching them grow up. So say Hi to Mom & Dad for me and here is your kiss on the head. Your little Bro
Janice Pfeiffer-Flores
January 12, 2012
I grew up with the Prazma family and am so saddened to hear of Chucks passing. Prayers and love to the family.
Lisa Barker
January 12, 2012
I am so sorry to hear of Charlies death. Watching the kids play inline hockey won't be the same.
Pattie Coveny-Guerin
January 11, 2012
Charlie will be truly missed. He was such a great guy. I never saw him without a smile. He will always hold a special place in my heart. He was my brother Larry's best friend and they were awesome together as friends and musicians. Make sure you look up my brother Mike and enjoy some singing together :) Thanks for being you.
Jeff Ward
January 11, 2012
I had the privledge of working with Charlie on two CD projects. I was so nervous walking into the studio that first day in autumn of 1998 . Within ten minutes or so of us meeting he'd shared at least three or four irish jokes that I'd never heard..! I was very nervous, but he made me feel so comfortable. I firmly believe that because of my experience working with Charlie, I became a better musician, a better singer, a better person, my confidence as a performer grew because of him.
I will treasure the incredible memories I have working, laughing, sharing space with him. This world is a sadder place without him in it.
An old Irish toast goes..."May you get to heaven half an hour before the devil knows you're dead"....I think he'd drink to that.
I will miss him until I see him again
......"Slainte" my dear old friend
Pat Conley grovenot
January 11, 2012
Charlie we were classmates and its been years since I've seen you but all I've read and heard you were special..r.i.p.
Greg Toombs
January 11, 2012
Charlie, I was so uplifted as I walked around at your visitation today; so many people loved you man! It was a testament to the idea that while we are here...spend our time wisely and lovingly! You accomplished that and so much more in the hearts you've touched. In our brief musical relationship your talents were exeptional and well worth the investment…what I gained through your non-judgemental attitude and humility remains priceless. You made sure we became friends! While I'm deeply saddened that it was your time that was cut so short, I will again take a lesson from you, and pass it forward. Rest in peace.
Karl and Mary Jane Linden
January 11, 2012
Mary Jane and I are deeply sad to hear of Charlie's passing. His musicianship was spectacular and we were very impressed by his keen skills as a recording engineer. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
Bob Norman
January 11, 2012
I could not make the wake or funeral bc of family emergencies. But, Charlie and I used to listen to Great Gig in the Sky - by Pink Floyd a lot. Charlie and I loved that female vocalist.
After a session I remember we listenend to it at the studio. Pretty good sound system. In your honor Charlie - that song goes on my Ipod so we can continue to share it.
Bob Norman - Elburn Illinos.
Bev McNamara
January 11, 2012
Chuck is part of the fondest memories I have as a young adult. Going to see him at the Saddle Club was always a great time. We would never go without seeing Mr. and Mrs. Prazma in front row seats, his biggest fans. If it can give any comfort it is knowing they are all together again.
Rest in Peace
Sue Patterson
January 10, 2012
Charlie, you left us much too soon.
My prayers go out to Carol, Mike and Lisa, and I am so sad that I cannot make a flight in from Colorado on such short notice.
How would one describe Charlie - I would say he was "instrumental" in teaching and helping other musicians and "inspiring" to others - shown though his dedication to his craft and his quality work in so many different gendres; plus getting the sound just right.
Mostly he was just super nice and interested in people, but if you ever knew his parents you would know where that sweetness came from. Everyone loved them too.
We don't know why people are tapped by God to leave the earth so soon and unexpectedly, but Charlie will make great music in Heaven just like he did on earth.
Love from Sue (Christenson) Patterson
Patricia Weigand
January 10, 2012
We are saddened to learn of Charlie's passing. We enjoyed many great times at hockey. You were truly an amazing man. Your smile touched us all. Our thoughts and prayers to Carol, Mike and Lisa and all your family and friends.
Sal Lopez
January 10, 2012
I would like to give my heart felt sympathies and condolences to the Prazma Family.I called Charlie the "Music Man".I thank God,I had the pleasure and was fortunate enough to call Charlie my friend as well as my neighbor.May God guide and bless you the Prazma Family.I'm very sorry my Friend!
Gary Schmidt
January 10, 2012
As one more of Charlie's many friends/customers/fellow musicians I am saddened to learn of his passing and to know the void that he leaves among all who's lives he's touched. Many write in the book of memories we each carry but Charlie's humorous quips, amazing talent and true genuiness are printed idelibly in mine. Deepest condolences to the family and all who'll miss him.
Another of the "Christian Guys"
Marcy Walsh
January 10, 2012
Charlie, Charlie, Charlie....I'm going to miss you so much, my friend. You brightened up the world everywhere you went. You were one of the most genuine, generous and kind people I've ever known. There's a big empty hole in the world now that you're not here to fill it. Rest in peace.
Shirley & Dan Hogan
January 10, 2012
We will all miss his smile, his laugh, his jokes, his friendship and his music. He was a great friend to so many people and will be missed dearly. Our condolences and sympathies go out to his family and to all his friends.
Robert Norman
January 10, 2012
What a huge loss. I recorded at his studio as did my brother and bands I played with. Bands that I represented as an attorney also recorded there. He is beyond talented, a true professional and the energy at Crystall was palpable - because of him.
My true sympathy.
Bob Norman, Elburn Illinois
p.s. And know I see a friend of mine in Elburn also recorded there.
Stefan Benteler
January 10, 2012
Hey Charlie, I wish I got to personally know you better, but I know my father truly valued your friendship and musicianship. Now you can get back to making music with him.... Say hello to our little brother Eric for us too...
Coach Jones
January 10, 2012
The Renegades lost one of our biggest fans. Charlie always enjoyed watching Mike's hockey practices and games, and we will miss his smile and support. Condolences to Mike and the Prazma family from the Renegades hockey family.
Bob Wicklund
January 10, 2012
Charlie always referred to us, Ethan's Clan, as the Christian Guys. We ended up recording with Charlie primarily because he was a good guy. Into the process we realized he was actually a Great guy, who was funny, extremely talented and cared about a lot of people. I thank God for Charlie and the Prazma family!
Pete Szujewski
January 10, 2012
No words can express my feeling of loss from Charlie's passing. He was a special person who brought great energy and enthusiasm to everything he touched. His smile was engaging with a positive vibration that permeated his life and being. Always enthusiastic and ready to perform a consumate professional who always inspired the best, a great friend, you will be missed but never forgotten!
Keith Betti
January 10, 2012
I was fortunate to be working on a project over at Crystall these past 6 months and must've seen him at least an additional 30 more times than I would have normally. I'm forever grateful for the good times, music, jokes and lots of hockey talk. Throughout knowing him over the past 10 years he was nothing but wonderful to me, my family and friends. A very special talented man, loved by many and will greatly be missed. Very saddened by this loss and my heart goes out to anyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Tony Barth
January 10, 2012
I just saw him at his recording studio with my daughter amber to make a chlio cd for collage. I also will miss him at inline hockey. My deepest sympathies my god be with him and you for your loss. Tony Jackie Amber Riggs Barth
January 9, 2012
What a CLASS ACT!!!,Charlie you will be missed by so many people whose lives you have touched.My sympathy to the Prazma family,your fellow musician,Geno Olson...I Love You Man!!!
Laurie Schneider Brooks
January 9, 2012
My sympathies to you all. I knew Chuck since we went to grade school,and thru high school together, and living in the neighborhood.I enjoyed all the school reunions, talking about the old days and our families and the old neighborhood and the present, our families and kids. He was a warm caring man, and will be missed by many. God be with you and your family Chuck.
Peter Kruse
January 9, 2012
Dear Prazma Family,
Although Charlie and I grew up in the same area, we ran with different friends and musicians,but I had always heard so much about his studio and his playing.This last summer I was blessed to work on a project at Crystal, and got a chance to catch up with Charlie,and get to know him. He and I had a great time together doing what we love. He had a great way with people,and had a great ear for music.
May God help you through these trying times.Charlie will be missed by many.
You will all be in my prayers.
American Heart Association
January 9, 2012
May your memories of the wonderful times you shared with your loved one comfort you and your family, today and always.
January 9, 2012
Dear Prazma Family,
I am so sorry to learn of your loss. Charlie was a great guy and friend. Our band recorded 4 CD projects with Charlie and we were about to do our final mix on our latest this evening. We are in shock. He will always remain in our memories and hearts.
Terry Cassidy/The Stalin Brothers
Mandy
January 9, 2012
My deepest sympathies, love, and prayers to all. Charlie was one of the greatest persons I have ever met - for sure he will be very sadly missed. May the good Lord embrace him with open arms to sing in Heaven always:)
Suzanne O'Brien-Smith
January 9, 2012
So very sorry to hear about Charlie. He was truly a blessing to me and my family. Tim and I are praying for you and the kids. Peace and love to you.
Tom Billington
January 9, 2012
Charlie was a great guy had alot of fun with him at both Lincoln and ISU we play Guaitars together at the Pizza joint in Normal and also at the coffee house on the campus at Lincoln, Hew will be greatly missed I hope that God has a instrument for him to play, because he di make some beautiful music while on earth and I am sure he will make them dance in heaven. From a good musician to a great one I wish you peace.
Tom Billington Class of 73 Lincoln, & 75 ISU.
Mike Arturi
January 9, 2012
My deepest sympathies and condolences to Charlie's family. I loved Charlie. He was a great musician and a phenominal friend. My prayers go out in full to this fine human being whom I will never forget. Rest in peace brutha, you are missed. - Mike Arturi
Ruth Wilcox
January 9, 2012
To the Prazma Family
We were sad to hear about Charlie passing away. He was a good soul with an amazing voice. He introduced us together last year and was so happy to know we are getting married because of Charlie. He may not be singing at our wedding, but will always be remebered in our hearts when we tell the story about US.
Prayers and thoughts are with the Prazma family.
Ruth Wilcox and Greg Allen
Brenda Boese
January 9, 2012
Carol, My prayers are with you and your children. God will give you the peace and strengle to get through this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss
Bill & Barb Cheval
January 9, 2012
We are saddened to hear of Charlie's passing. Although we did not know him personally, our lives were most certainly enriched because of his music. He will be missed. God Bless the Prazma Family during this most difficult time.
Gina Behrend
January 9, 2012
Carol, Michael, Lisa, & Family,
May God provide you enough strength to face these difficult times, although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, just know that you are very close in every thought and prayer.
May you take comfort in knowing an angel is watching over you.
I am very sorry for your loss.
January 9, 2012
Dear Carol, and Family,
I'm so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. He and his music will be greatly missed, but never forgotten. May you soon be able to take comfort to know that he has found his way to Our Lord, and together they will be smiling down on your entire family until you are someday joined together once again.
I will keep you in my prayers.
Kathi Steder, Willowbrook '71
Kristine Benteler
January 9, 2012
My family was stunned to hear of Charlie's passing. Our memories of him are are fond and vibrant. He played with my dad's orchestra often and I always looked forward to a concert when I knew Charlie would be there, rocking out "Brown Eyed Girl" on his guitar. He was a well-respected musician and professional for sure, but he was also just an overall great guy. He was so friendly and kind, and funny too. He will really be missed. From the Benteler Family, our heart, thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
Virginia Chalikis Theodore
January 9, 2012
Carol,
It has been many, many years since I have spoken with you and was saddened to read your husband Charlie's obituary this morning. I have fond memories of the both of you. May Charlie's memory be eternal and may God grant you and your family strength and peace knowing he has entered into eternal life.
Fondly,
Virginia
Russ & Jayne Hart
January 9, 2012
Carol,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss, our thoughts and prayers are with you, your children and family.
Bill Carigan
January 9, 2012
On behalf of all the employee/Partners of Cintas Corporation, I'd like to extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Prazma Family. We are thinking of you all and praying for you.
Peter, Lisa & Sara
January 9, 2012
Carol, our thoughts and prayers are with you, Mike, Lisa and the rest of your family during this difficult time.
Frank&Cheri Grosso
January 9, 2012
We are so sorry to hear the news of Charlie's passing. We will remember what a nice person Charlie was and his wonderful personality. Charlie made Cds for my step dad and played on a couple of his tracks. Another fine musician up in heaven. I hope they are both celebrating their life singing and playing guitar together. We will miss him. Frank and Cheri Grosso (Itasca, il)
Paulette Koch
January 9, 2012
My heart breaks for you Carol,Michael and Lisa - so so sorry to hear of Charlie's passing. I enjoyed being with him whenever I saw him. He was a magnificent musician and will be truly missed.
Ken & Sara Pojman
January 9, 2012
The New York Pojmans (Ken, Sara, Emily and David) send their deepest sympathy to Charlie's family. Please try and be strong during this very difficult time and be comforted to know that many people are thinking of, and praying for, you.
Bruce Thompson
January 9, 2012
We are so saddened to hear about the passing of our friend Charlie. We were honored to meet Charlie about 4 years ago, through Lynn Dowiarz. Charlie agreed to come to the Deicke Home and play some music for everyone who lives here. Well, Charlie did that several times, but what he brought us was much, much more. Charlie brought his humor, enthusiasm, and excitemnt for music and people. Whether it be his "jokes" or wearing bad wigs, he brought joy to everyone who came in contact with him. What a wonderful person. Charlie and his Belle Music Partner, Sue, also volunteered to play music at our last 3 annual Deicke Home Walk a thons. Charlie will be missed by all the staff and residents of the Deicke Home.
God bless you.
Patrick Wirth
January 9, 2012
I am very sorry to hear that Charles has gone to the big gig in the sky, he will be missed down here. I first met Charles at Sid Finces in Oak Brook with the fabulous Avalanche and started following him and the group anywhere they played. My prayers and thoughts go out to his Family. Keep on jamming, catch you on the flip side.
January 9, 2012
This news of Charlie's passing is shocking and very sad. Charlie gave me so much in the 20+ years I have known him. In the early days as a fledgling musician, and recording engineer, Charlie gave me opportunities when noone else would. He would let me come up and perform during breaks in his sets at the Mill Race Inn, and mentored me as a recording engineer. Most of all, though, Charlie was always warm and friendly to everyone I brought to the studio. He was that way to everyone he met. Everyone. I will miss him in an awful way.
My heart goes out to Carol, Michael & Lisa, Steve, Nancy and Kathy, as well as Dennis, Todd, Larry, and all who were fortunate to call him their friend.
The world was a better place because Charlie was in it, albiet for too short a time.
Rest in Peace, Chuck. You were truly one of a kind.
Kenny Howe
Bonnie & Jim Caper
January 9, 2012
I met Charlie when I was in high school in the late 60's and have stayed in touch since. He was the funniest, happiest person we knew. Charlie, your passing will leave a huge void in so many lives. You will live on in fond memories forever. You may have been taken from our sight, but never from our hearts. Rock on, Charlie.
Kathryn Pojman
January 9, 2012
I will always love you from the bottom of my heart. Your sister, Kathryn Jo
Bob & Marge Shannon
January 8, 2012
Carol, We are so sorry about this sad news. My mind wanders to the forever smiles of Lisa and Michael and it is heartbreaking to think of what they are going through. All of you will be in our prayers.
Charlene Graves
January 8, 2012
I got to know Charlie when I was working for Franz Benteler. What a wonderful person Charlie was to everyone he knew, and what a great talent in so many areas. He will be truly missed by all who were fortunate to know him.
Bill & Linda Miller
January 8, 2012
We are so very sorry for the sudden and unexpected loss of Charlie. We have followed his music and have heard him play at several different venues, always appreciating and enjoying his talent. We were very fortuante to have seen him last Tuesday night at the Tap House, and are thankful for that memory. Our hearts ache for his entire family and our prayers are with each one of you.
Elizabeth Van Dyke
January 8, 2012
I feel so honored to have known Charlie and to have called him my friend. He taught me so much about music, but most importantly, how to always laugh. Charlie,you left us too soon and I will miss you every day of my life.
Tony and Teresa Pojman
January 8, 2012
Kathy and family, we are sorry to hear of your loss. I remember your brother from when he played at your wedding. Our prayers are with you and your entire family
January 8, 2012
Nancy and I are extremely saddened to hear of Charlie's sudden passing.
Charlie was a great friend that we all looked forward to a good conversation, especially about his beloved Cubbies.
His music and talent made us all proud to call him friend.
We know the music in Heaven just got a bit sweeter.
Our prayers go out to all his friends and family.
To say he will be missed is truly an understatement.
Bill and Nancy Bruchert
Ken Slauf
January 8, 2012
I met Charlie about a year and 1/2 ago and immediately became fast friends. His smile was infectious and his good and kind spirit will be missed. I am so fortunate and grateful for even our short time sharing laughs and music. I had dinner with him the Tuesday before... as we left he gave me a big hug, said 2012 was going to be a great year... I will miss him like a brother.
Phil & Pat Brate
January 8, 2012
Chuck and I were roommates back at ISU, 1976. Chuck was playing at the Gallery at the start of the 2nd semester. I went out to hear him and met my wife, Pat, that night. I definitely think Charlie had a hand in bringing us together. My life wouldn't have been as great if I hadn't met Pat that night. Thanks, Chuck. You always had a quick laugh and an easy smile. You will be missed.
Phil and Pat Brate
January 8, 2012
Chuck and I were roommates in college down at ISU on flora Way. Chuck was playing at the Gallery one night at the start of the 2nd semester 1976. I met my future wife that night, Pat. I kinda think Chuck had a hand in that, and maybe I would be married to someone else, and my life would have been totally different. Thanks Chuck, you were a great guy, who always had an easy smile and a quick laugh. You will be missed.
Mary and Jerry Simmons
January 8, 2012
Mine and Jerry's thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May the Lord give you strength as he has me and my family in times of need. Love and sympathy.
Jennifer Silk
January 8, 2012
Charlie was always so much fun to play music with! What a talented guy. His sense of humor was not just with jokes but using his wit with dealing with serious situations, too. There was another side of him that makes me smile the most - during the break on a gig, he phoned his son about his hockey game. That was the only time that I saw Charlie being serious - he seriously loved his kids. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Take care. Jennifer Silk - Elgin, IL
Rich and Meg Hufford
January 8, 2012
Dear Carol and family, our hearts ache with yours. We will continue to pray for God's strength and blessings for the entire Prazma family in the coming days. I'm sure you will witness much testimony this week to the love Charlie brought into this world. May this comfort you and keep you strong in the weeks ahead. We wish you peace!
Bill Archer
January 8, 2012
This is so unexpected and sudden that it is difficult to process the loss of Charlie Prazma. He was always ready to engage in conversation; he always had a story or a joke to tell. He was definitely a people person. Charlie knew more people, from every walk of life than anyone I have ever known. He had that natural quality that great politicians possess. He was approachable and engaging. Charlie was an outgoing, gregarious man who was both shy and present at the same time. You could describe him as a loveable, intensely loyal, committed, tenacious and persistent person. Charlie was a devoted Father. Then there was the musical side of Charlie Prazma.
He liked to perform but he loved to record. Crystall Recorders is the monument to Charlie Prazma. A lot of great performers, engineers and producers created a lot of great tracks for many different purposes. From on-site live meeting recordings of highly technical subject matter to novelty songs for sports teams and cutting demos for most all the top Chicago working bands, he did it all. We recorded the Big Bear Band version of the Chicago Bear March in 1986 at Crystall Recorders. That began a twenty-two year business relationship and personal friendship.
As a performer, he was very, very talented. He played guitar and mandolin. In his later years, his calendar of performing dates was filled with eclectic and varied performances. From hospital gigs and ceremonies to playing in restaurants and nightclubs with his musical partner of over 30 years, Dennis O'Brien; or jobbing with Franz Bentler When he sang a song, it was with conviction and most importantly to him, in-tune. He was a stickler for the correct harmonies and ownership of parts.
We have lost one-of-kind. He was a once in lifetime kind of guy. His loss cannot be replaced. God speed Charlie, I can not believe you are gone, you will be deeply missed! My life is better for having known you.
Suzy Fields-Mars
January 8, 2012
He had great energy and zest for life. He will be missed.
Donald Pojman
January 7, 2012
There are no words to express the loss of someone so loved.
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