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Raf Czarnecki Obituary
Age 34
Survived by parents, Jacek and Ewa Czarnecki; family in Poland; the extended Labedz family; many friends. Our beloved Raf will be loved forever.
VISITATION with family Thursday after 4pm with MEMORIAL SERVICE at 6pm Bethany Funeral Home Chapel. Please bring a single white flower to place around his casket. Memorials requested to the family to establish a scholarship fund. BETHANY FUNERAL HOME
82nd & Harrison 402-593-6100
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Raf Czarnecki
Barbara Emary
February 18, 2025
We will never forget you Raf. You were so special to us. We just spoke of you the other day with our son Rick Dart. You will always be missed. Mike and Barb Emary
Barbara Emary
February 18, 2024
Nearly another year has passed yet we can see your smile and hear your voice as clearly as when you were here. We hope you're at peace. We miss you, Mike and Barb Emary
Lee & Amerikiss (Daughter) Nastase
February 22, 2023
RAF! Nine years ago the world lost a great one! Hope you've settled in well upstairs in heaven, save some room for the rest of us! Miss ya buddy! #RestInPeaceRaf 143
Barbara Emary
February 18, 2023
Our memories of Raf remain so strong in our minds all these years later. He was such a special guy and he will never be forgotten. His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers. Mike and Barb Emary
Dorris Bullock
February 18, 2022
Raf was my direct manager at PayPal and when I was put in the hospital he came out and spent some quality time with me. He had a very caring heart and concern for others.
Kraston Scott (Tustin CA)
February 19, 2021
Seven years have elasped since Raf's passing, my thoughts and prayers remain forever with Jacek and Ewa in addition to all other family members here in the states and in Poland. May God bless you.
Barbara Emary
February 18, 2021
Raf was such a great guy. Knew him a long time as he grew up with our son Rick Dart. What I remember most is that smile. I can see him smiling as I write this. He was so special and is so missed. He is smiling down on everyone.
Lee & Amerikiss (Daughter) & Ironman (Dog) Nastase
February 18, 2021
I hope by now you’ve found your way around up there & that your music hasn’t scared anyone away!
Thanks for the fun memories RAF RIP GBR 143 ONE
Lee & Amerikiss (Daughter) & Ironman (Dog)
Brian Gniadek
March 3, 2014
I only new Raf for the time period that he worked at LinkedIn but the friendship that we had was genuine. His desk was right next to mine and I always looked forward to our daily conversations which will be greatly missed. Crazy thing is that I've been out of the office the past 2.5 weeks because of the birth of my new son. So, I wasn't able to see Raf recently before this sad news. But I think he's looking down on me/us because my son Gavin was born on Raf's birthday. From here on out, February 12th will be a day that I never forget.
To Raf's parents, you had an amazing son. Please be proud of all the ways that he touched his friends lives. He will be truly missed and forever celebrated as an amazing person.
Cathy Burgess
March 2, 2014
Dear Ewa and Jacek,
I just learned today about Raf, and my heart goes out to you! Though I never knew him well, I used to see him occasionally when I was at your home. Having a son only a few years older, I can only imagine the heartache for you. My your deep spirit reach out and continue to connect with him in a new ways. I wish I could be present for the memorial with songs and chants. Much love,
Steve Szynskie
March 1, 2014
Raf, you were a great friend, great person and the best chat-worthy sports fan I know for sure. Thank you for the great times we shared. I am deeply saddened by your demise. You will be missed by so many, and in so many ways by so many people. It's unfair what life can bring to even the best people in the world. You are and will always be one of those people. I love you brother. You will never be forgotten by any of us and have been forgiven by the one that matters most, your savior. Rest in the most peace anyone has ever rested.
Kathy Tiffany Barboza
February 28, 2014
My heart goes out to the Czarnecki family. I am sorry for the loss of your son. Prayers to your family during your time of healing.
February 27, 2014
Dear Ewa and Jacek, very sorry for your loss. We will pray for you and your family. Ganesh and Archana
Jessica
February 27, 2014
He was like a true gentleman and will be missed!
Jim Rapczynski
February 27, 2014
Mr. and Mrs. Czarnecki,
Please forgive the inadequacy of this note... I am profoundly saddened at Raf's passing and am terrribly sorry for your loss. My prayers will be for you and for him.
Proscewicz Family
February 27, 2014
Dear Ewa and Jacek our hearts are broken by the news. We are praying that the Lord Jesus Christ will comfort you, give you strength and peace in this difficult time. It was honor to know Rafal through our short time in Nebraska.
Julie B
February 27, 2014
Raf touched my heart in the most special way. He was a wonderful man... so kind, caring, clever, and full of life. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to work with him. He will always be a star in my eyes. Sending blessings and prayers to you.
Michele Miller
February 27, 2014
Dear Ewa and Jacek, my heart breaks for you. Keeping you and all your family in prayer, and will be chanting the healing mantra for you this week. Blessings and peace.
Deborah Clark
February 27, 2014
Dear Ewa and Jacek, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all who grieve for Raf.
David Skidmore
February 26, 2014
It took only two days of my PayPal career to hear of the legendary "RAF", stories of personality and talent so extraordinary that they were simply that, of legend! Little did I now at the time that they fell far short of reality. Raf, you were an amazing person and I am eternally grateful to have known you. My thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones. Vaya con dios, brother.
Rob
February 26, 2014
Had the privilege of training with Raf at LinkedIn. I'll always remember his kindness, positivity, and pride for his Polish heritage. Though we went on to different departments after training, he always made sure to stop by and say hi from time to time. My thoughts are with his friends and family.
Jennifer Halter
February 26, 2014
My prayers are with all of you who were lucky enough to be a part of Rafs life. He will be loved and missed forever.
Tracy Finocchiaro
February 26, 2014
Raf, what a great kid!!! We lived across the street from him and his wonderful family. I remember Raf, Claude, my 2 sons - Shawn, PJ playing all kinds of sports (soccer, football, basketball) outside in the street, in someone's yard or up at the park. He was always smiling and happy. We moved away and kind of lost track of each other. I saw Raf again about a year ago and he was all grown up but still had that bright, warm smile . My heart aches for Raf, his family and so many friends. I give them my prayers for peace, comfort and healing.
Gavin Byrne
February 26, 2014
I will always associate the US Soccer team with Raf… hanging with him for games was usually more entertaining than the match! It was pure Raf – fun, passionate, witty, exuberant, good natured. He was such a great guy - whether it was out socializing, in the gym, playing soccer, or in PayPal – anytime I met him, he was always friendly and kind. My thoughts are with his friends and family.
Grace Hatcher
February 26, 2014
I was priviledged to working with Raf as my supervisor for six years at PayPal. I remember with fondness how he was so personable, gracious, encouraging, positive, fun-loving and just so full of life. May the Almighty wrap his arms around his family at this time of great sadness and may they receive peace beyond all understanding. RIP Raf.
Lisa Spence
February 26, 2014
There are just no words to describe the magnitude of this tragedy. I haven't been in contact with Raf in a few years, but I'll never forget how contagious his smile was, and how gifted he was when it came to making others laugh. My heart breaks for those impacted, and my thoughts are with you all. Raf, you are one of a kind and will be greatly missed.
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DK
February 26, 2014
Rafal was a classmate from elementary school through high school – such a memorable person. He was always curious and talkative in class, and being a shy kid, I enjoyed being seated next to him because he brought levity to the everyday. Reading this guestbook, my heart goes out to his family and friends. I wish I had known him as an adult for he clearly grew from a bright child to a wonderful man. My sincere condolences.
Megan Fonfara
February 26, 2014
I had the pleasure of attending college at UNO with Raf and then working together for many years at PayPal. I will miss the charismatic smile and positive attitude every time I saw him. My heart goes out to family and friends. May he live on through memories that have touched us all.
Barb Fisher
February 26, 2014
My deepest sympathy to the Czarnecki family in your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Kraston (Scotty) Scott
February 26, 2014
My prayers and thoughts are with the entire Czarnecki family and loved ones. God Bless.
Paul Vescio
February 25, 2014
Very saddened, yet so very fortunate I had the chance to know Raf. So genuine to talk to, so fun to be around. If there was a ‘big game' that week, you'd either run into Raf there, or he'd analyze it for you the next day like nobody else could. We'll miss you ‘Rafterman' but we'll always remember you.
February 25, 2014
Our thoughts & prayers are with the Czarnecki family.
Rusty & Adrienne Thompson
USPS
David Mullen
February 25, 2014
Though hearbroken to see this, I give thanks to God I was able to meet such a good young man in life. Good co-worker, good teammate & competitive opponent, and good friend. Thanks for sharing the love of basketball, and helping me at work when I needed. RIP brother Raf.
Jeanne Strain
February 25, 2014
My prayers and thoughts are with you. I had the pleasure of working with Raf though PayPal, he had a positive energy about him and was enjoyable to work with. He will be missed.
Shawn Loch
February 25, 2014
I am deeply saddened to here of Raf's passing. My condolences to Mr. and Mrs. Czarnecki. When I moved to LaVista Raf was the first person I met. We became close friends and though we lost touch over the years I am honored to have known such a bright and wonderful soul. RIP my friend. You will be truly missed.
Nate Rath
February 25, 2014
Raf was a great friend and always fun to be around You will be missed.
February 25, 2014
My prayers and thoughts are with your family.
Thim Chereck
Frank Ibero
February 25, 2014
RIP Raf, you were a great co-worker. You will be missed. My condolences to the family. Prayers being sent.
Aunt Sharon Waite
February 25, 2014
Keep your smile shining brightly dear Raf. You always brightened up every heart and room you were in. Your memory will always be in my heart.
Rick Dart
February 25, 2014
Amazing to know that Raf touched so many!! https://twitter.com/dickchatelain/status/438345753530884097
The Raf Report- Sports- UNO Gateway- http://www.unogateway.com/sports/the-raf-report-1.1527040
Lora Daum
February 25, 2014
Oh Raf, so very sorry to hear this news. My heart hurts for you & your family, friends & loved ones. I'll never forget you. Be at peace, my friend. We will miss you down here.
Juan Medina
February 25, 2014
Very sad to hear about Raf's passing. I met Raf through PayPal and he was always a very uplifting individual with tons of positive energy. My heart goes out to his family and friends. You will be missed by many.
Mike and Barb Emary
February 25, 2014
My husband and I had the honor of knowing Raf while he and our son Rick grew from boys into men. What we will remember most about him is that he was always smiling and so funny. Just a joy to be around. Our hearts go out to all of those hurting at this time. We pray for peace for Raf and for all of his family and friends. God Bless.
Holly Lukasiewicz
February 25, 2014
I loved being around Raf's energy. He was calm, hilarious, proud, kind, thoughtful, witty.
Forever you will be loved and remembered in our hearts, Raf. May your wonder-full Soul linger among us.
matt travis
February 25, 2014
May you live on through everyone and in our memories..RIP Raf
Dan Goodwin
February 25, 2014
To the Czarnecki family...we mourn with you over the loss of your son. Please know that he was to many of us a tremendous young man who is loved by many. Our prayers are with you and may the peace of God keep your hearts and minds during this time.
Derek Francom
February 25, 2014
Rest in peace my friend. We had some great times playing indoor soccer and sharing laughs at PayPal. You will be missed by many.
Sandy Collins
February 25, 2014
You are truly missed Raf, and an incredible person with such great energy. My prayers go out to the Czarnecki family.
Gini Low
February 25, 2014
I am so sorry, Eva. I am praying for you and your family. blessings, gini from Friday knitting.
You are missed..Love, Team Awesome!
February 25, 2014
Jim Broghammer
February 25, 2014
Very saddened by this news. I worked closely with Raf at LinkedIn and he left a positive legacy. I'm glad I got the chance to meet this wonderful kind person. My heart goes out to his family and close friends who knew him even more intimately. RIP Raf.
Traci Smithberg
February 25, 2014
May you find your peace. You will be greatly missed by many. Thoughts and prayers with your family.
Jerrod Matras
February 25, 2014
Raf, while I should recap all of our memories together, the one thing that always sticks out to me is how great you were with kids. Always patient and smiling, you were one of my friends who never looked at me bringing my baby along as a hassle. Always asking to hold Kailee when we we so young that most people were terrified of babies and diapers. You'll always be the uncle they never really got to meet...miss you homie, I wish I told you sooner how important you were to me and my family. I choose to remember you smiling, since that is all I can ever remember you doing!
Brian Brashaw
February 25, 2014
I am shocked and very saddened to hear about Raf. He was a great partner to me with our combined work at the UNO paper and inspired the idea of taking our department in different directions. His dedication to sports and to challenge others to be great will not be forgotten.
Dorris Grayes
February 25, 2014
My prayers and thoughts are with your family. You have peace with our Lord.
Sylvia and Richard Witt
February 25, 2014
We are deeply saddened at this sudden devastating news. Our prayers are with Ewa and Jacek. May the Lord look upon you and give you peace. Knowing Rafal since childhood we were always impressed with his goodness. My mother shares your sorrow as well. Sylvia and Richard Witt
Trey Jones
February 25, 2014
I'm not saying anything new here, but Raf was one solid dude. So much enthusiasm professionally and incredibly fun away from work. Proud to have called him my teammate on the soccer field. The image I will keep in mind is of "The Polish Pistol" with a devilish grin on his face, fading away for a long jumpshot on the PayPal basketball court and knocking it home. RIP my friend.
February 25, 2014
We were deeply saddened at this sudden devastating news. Our prayers are with Ewa and Jacek. May the Lord bless you and give you peace. We knew Rafal since childhood and were always impressed by his goodness. Our hearts are heavy in this time, and the rest of our family shares your sorrow. My mother shares your grief with you as well. Love always, Sylvia and Richard Witt
Arturo Valenzuela
February 25, 2014
Raf, the world seems to have lost a lot of its charm this week. I have been trying to channel my inner-Raf to see the bright side in all of this, mostly thinking about all of the laughs, great conversations we shared, and how excited we were when we got to see the future President speak--a top 10 life moment. I am eternally grateful that I got the chance to know you, and you will be missed amigo. Rest well brother.
Brent Geddings
February 25, 2014
Finding words is difficult. We grew up together. On the court and off. My neighbor, my teacher, my friend. Always a smile waiting to happen. You will truely be missed. I dropped a ball at the court for you. Keep working on the jumper. And to the family, our hearts are with you in this terrible time.
Kate Young
February 25, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to Raf's family. I was fortunate enough to meet Raf through Emily & Christian as well as be around Raf for a number of soccer matches. He was always a fun, kind guy and will be greatly missed. Thinking of you all.
February 25, 2014
My sincere condolences on your great loss. May you find comfort and peace during this sad time. Psalm 25:16,17.
Roberta Matos
February 25, 2014
Your fun and happy spirit will never be forgotten. We will certainly miss you! My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. May you rest in peace!
Becky Francom
February 25, 2014
Mr. and Mrs. Czarnecki we are truly sorry for you loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you. My husband and I had the pleasure of knowing Raf and he was such a wonderful, fun loving, energetic guy. We are fortunate to have such wonderful memories with Raf and will cherish them all.
Patrick Lehr
February 25, 2014
My prayers are with you and your family. You made a huge difference to many, thank you.
Inga Gardner
February 25, 2014
Raf was one of the most genuine people I've ever worked with. I'm very saddened by the news of his loss. My deepest regrets to Raf's family. Your son was a wonderful man.
Michelle Taylor
February 25, 2014
Raf, I am devastated by your passing. So kind, bright, and driven. Your light shone bright. For your family, I can only offer to hold their hands, help walk them home at night, and share in the love of your memory.
Leela and Dale Bruner
February 25, 2014
Words just can't say how terribly heart broken We feel for our dear friends Eva and Jacek. May Rafal rest in peace.
Shawn Mahrenholz
February 25, 2014
Raf's kind and fun-loving spirit will never be forgotten. He will continue to influence people as he did in life. You will be missed my friend--God bless you always.
Jenn Altman
February 25, 2014
My thoughts and prayers go out to the Czarnecki family. Although I did not keep in contact with Raf over the years,he is one who could never be forgotten. His smile was contagious and his joy was always making people laugh. You will be missed by many!
Alicia
February 25, 2014
May you rest in peace Raf.
Sabrina Stephens
February 25, 2014
I am truly saddened to hear about the loss of such a bright soul. I can honestly say I've never met anyone like Raf. He was truly one of a kind. I haven't spoke or seen Raf in a few years, but he is someone you just never forget. Please know that my thoughts, prayers, and heart-felt condolences are with Raf's family and friends. Mitch, Sam, Rick, and I'm sure many others, my heart is with you. To Raf's parents, I can't imagine the loss you must feel, but I hope you are able to find some peace in knowing you raised a life that was a blessing to all who had a privilege to know him.
Uncle Raf
February 25, 2014
Alicia
February 25, 2014
Prayers go out to his friends and family during this most difficult time.
Dan Diederich
February 25, 2014
May he rest peacefully and his memories be carried in every soul he touched. Our heartfelt condolence and prayers are with you.
Jessica Tedore
February 25, 2014
Raf, you lit up a room when you walked in. Your smile, your cheerful demeanor - it was infectious. You will be missed by our family more than you will ever know.
Samantha Haug
February 25, 2014
May Raf be gifted with peace and joy as he joins the Lord Jesus in heaven. Raf, you will be missed greatly and always remembered.
February 25, 2014
I met Raf at the LaVista Rec Center during his high school days, where we played a lot of basketball. I drove him home many nights after we'd overdone it on the court. Years later I saw him in the hallway at PayPal where he had just been hired. We worked together in Merchant Services and also played on the PayPal basketball league. I rememeber him coming to practice one day with a t-shirt that said, "I belong to Jesus!" I gave him a hug that day - was so proud to see him display his faith.
You'll be missed but well remembered Raf! May God grant your soul peace.
"Blessed are they that mourn for they shall be comforted."
Will Campbell
February 25, 2014
Too early my friend. Rest peacefully and know that you changed lives and paved roads.
Steven King
February 25, 2014
My wife and I have broken hearts over your loss. May G-d be with you, and may your son rest peacefully in the arms of G-d.
Gloria Wilcox
February 25, 2014
Wishing you peace to bring comfort, courage to face the days ahead and loving memories of Raf to forever hold in your hearts.
Rick Erickson
February 25, 2014
So sorry for your sudden loss>
Jamie
February 25, 2014
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Raf.
Brianne Gilstrom
February 25, 2014
While time working with you was short, your desire for knowledge and passion to help was second to none. We will truly miss on our team and as a member of the LinkedIn family.
Melissa Berecek-Hays
February 25, 2014
My heart is broken to hear this news. I've been so greatful to have kept in touch with Raf over the years. He always could bring a smile to my face. Rest in peace. You will be missed by so many people.
Jacob Horrocks
February 25, 2014
He was a great and inspirational person to be around. I will miss being around such an admirable figure. Missing you already Raf!
Thanks for the blessed rosary and the fun memories raf. rip gbr 143 ONE
Lee Nastase
February 25, 2014
Sam Tedore
February 24, 2014
Mr. and Mrs. Czarnecki, I cannot say enough how terribly sorry I am for your loss. You are forever in my thoughts. If there's anything I can do, now or later, please let me know.
Raf, my friend, my brother. You were one of a kind. I love you. I miss you dearly.
Lee Nastase
February 24, 2014
Raf was always genuine and a great friend throughout the years which is hard to find now a days. He made me personalized cd's called straight spinning that I still jam. He brought me back a rosary that was blessed by the Pope when he visited overseas years ago and I will bring it with me to pray with to his memorial in his honor.
Rest in peace big man. Thanks for being real.
Go Big Red
"one"
Maryam Yaseer
February 24, 2014
I remember working with Raf at sitel when we were in high school. He was such a fun loving guy. He will truly be missed and has touched the hearts and lives of everyone around him. Thoughts and prayers goes out to his family.
Ahmet Cagin
February 24, 2014
Raf- always positive, constructive and helpful. It was a pleasure to work with him. My condolences to his family.
Melissa Krajeski
February 24, 2014
My heart goes out to Raf's family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Raf was such a truly genuine individual. We will miss him dearly.
Alison Hoy
February 24, 2014
I haven't maintained contact with Raf for many years but when we were friends, he was a great friend. He was always happy and fun to be around.
He will be greatly missed and thought about daily.
Sending my condolences to his family and close friends.
Amber VanOeveren
February 24, 2014
Raf was a childhood friend that grew up down the street from me. He was always making us laugh and was genuinely nice to everyone. It's so sad to see him go so young. You'll be missed old friend.
Madoka Marshall
February 24, 2014
We lost a great leader and great person. He will always live in our memories. Raf, you'll be missed so much. Rest in peace.
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