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82 Entries
Melodye Moore
September 13, 2024
Sending prayers to Sue and family on this 23rd anniversary of 9/11..
Melodye Moore
September 13, 2024
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Joe Hawkins
July 3, 2024
I worked with Jeff at Telesphere in Oakbrook in 1983. We both got into the office early but he would be there reading his bible when I got there. His office was next to mine. One of the nicest guys I have ever known. I will always be thinking of him and praying for his family.
Rich Barbic
September 10, 2023
Jeff was such a great guy. We used to shoot pool at Morton College between classes back in the day.
Joe Craig
September 12, 2021
Jeff is still frequently in my thoughts. His ability to teach, motivate and inspire was rare and unequalled.
Ruth Seraphin
September 11, 2021
God Bless Jeffrey and his family, their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Canyon VanBuskirk
September 11, 2020
I never met Jeffrey, but I know he was a good dad. Daniel, his son, is my stepdad. I understand what my family has gone through and I am glad that they have stayed strong. Thanks for the support guys and they thank you too.
Rich Barbic
September 11, 2019
I knew Jeff from Morton West and Morton college. We use to play pool all the time between classes. He was a great guy!!!!
Phyllis Q
September 4, 2019
I had the honor of researching Jefferey Mladenik for my 9/11 memorial assignment. Jeffrey lived a very Christian life and taught the Christian virtues to people. He affected everyone in a great way. Jeffrey will truly be missed along with all the victims of 9/11. God Bless him and his family.
Janelle Davis
September 11, 2012
It seems like just yesterday that you walked among us, Jeff. You are remembered with great respect and regard and will not be forgotten.
Vanessa
September 14, 2011
God bless Jeffrey as he walks on the streets of glory....
Peggy Childers
September 11, 2011
To the family and friends of Jeffrey Peter Mladenik:
Jeffrey will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not allow those we lost on 9/11 be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you.
Mark VanDenburgh
September 11, 2011
The man I respected most in my life, was Jeff. From our time at Morton West HS from 1972 to 1976 he was a mentor to me. He was my best man at my wedding in 1979. He was my closest confidant until he died 10 years ago. My pain is nothing compared to what his family has gone through. They are his legacy. I strive to be more like he was in his life.....
I know he is where he always wanted to be, with Jesus.
You will never be forgotten my friend.
Mark W. VanDenburgh
Janelle
September 11, 2011
In cleaning out some paperwork and other things this week, I found Jeff's business card, which I thought was well timed as he was, of course, on my mind with the coming date. Blessings and peace to Sue and family on this 10 year anniversary. Jeff will not be forgotten and I know he is greatly missed.
Janelle
September 11, 2010
Not forgotten
Carol Deaton
September 10, 2010
I think of Jeff every 9/11. I babysat for Jeff and his brothers in Lyons, on Fishermans Terrace. They were all such sweet boys! I know he is with our God and I hope his family is doing well. God Bless the Mladenik Family. Carol Stachorek Deaton
Sydele Starr
September 11, 2009
I am remembering Jeff today as my colleague and my friend. My heart goes out to his family.
Janelle
September 11, 2009
Remembering
Joe Craig
September 12, 2008
Jeff lives on in my heart and my mind, he was a special gift from God.
Janelle
September 11, 2008
Always remembered
Missy Smith
September 11, 2007
I remember that day very clearly it was the day that these ugly,men thought they could bring America to ruins. It was a day that they killed many innocent men and women and it was a day of sadness that one can never forget,ever.
I had my son 2 months after this tragedy on December 11,2001 and I will never forget what that day was like. I am so thankful for all our men and women who serve to make our country (USA) what it is today. FREE!
Andrea Baker
September 11, 2007
No one who met Jeff will ever forget him.
Peace
Janelle
September 11, 2007
Never forgotten...
Karyn Campbell
September 10, 2007
My Yahoo group of China adoptive parents were reminiscing about 9-11 today (9-10-07)and I remembered that another China adoptive family was a victim of the attack. I found this tribute on an e-mail forwarded by Sue to someone on my list. I had no idea Jeff was a Christian. I hope to meet him one day in heaven. I just had to sign to let you know that even six years after the fact, those who didn't even know Jeff still honor his memory. It was worth a few seconds of my time to do that.
P Tabbernor
June 7, 2007
In memory....
Kristine
October 31, 2006
As I cross-stitched your name on the memorial that I am doing for all of the victims, I prayed for you and your family. Please know that your death was not in vain. We will always remember. God Bless.
Michael and Aimee Natal
September 13, 2006
5 years later...we still think of Jeff. He was a good man. May his wife and 6 children be blessed.
Nicole Hunter
September 11, 2006
Jeff was my boss at eLogic in Los Angeles, and though we only worked for a short time together I felt a great respect for him and admired his family values and dedication to his church. Jeff was a kind, thoughtful and giving person. My thoughts and prayers go out to Sue and the family.
Joseph Craig
August 25, 2006
It is not possible to describe the profound way in which Jeff affected my life. Months after our loss of Jeff I would walk the halls of Christ Church of Oak Brook and I felt I could here Jeff speaking and his presence nearby. It bothered me for a awhile that we had no grave or headstone to visit and pay respects to but I now realize that it is somewhat symbolic in that Jeff will live eternally in our hearts and minds. We were indeed fortunate to have such a person in our lives.
Lisa Hegel
September 11, 2003
It was a privilege to work with Jeff in 2001 - an impressive, kind and brilliant man - I only wish I had known him better.
Often I think of you, Sue, and all your family. I will always remember Jeff, and Andrew, and will keep you and yours in my heart and prayers. God bless you and God bless America.
Timothy DeYoung
June 13, 2003
Sue,I loved Jeff as a brother and a mentor.I can only write this now because of the courage of God`s grace.Jeff and I would talk before class about work and about my anger as well as other things.Jeff tought me anger is a choice just like happiness is a choice.The bible says a good friend is closer than a brother Jeff knew my spirit like I knew his. Jeff was a vessel for the Holy Spirit a man truly given up to God.I don`t know of anyone he had a shallow conversation with.
My prayer for you is that the joy of the Lord may be your stength.
Jeff was also a servant leader a man of humility who showed us himself for who he was and how loving God is. God`s waiting here for us to seek him and he will not disappoint. Love and prayers.Tim and M&M
jessica ebert
February 10, 2003
Remember those lost! They are the ones you love!
Amanda Brooks
January 20, 2003
My thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless!
Joni Smith
January 18, 2003
We don't know each other. I had the petition forwarded to me by a good friend and I have signed it. I was deeply saddened by the necessity of it. Words cannot express my sympathy for you and your family. I do not personally know any victims of that horrible day, but I continue to shed countless tears over it. I only hope that your family finds even a little comfort in the knowledge that so many, many strangers were so profoundly saddened by your loss. I pray for your strength.
Joni Smith
Sandy Osler
January 17, 2003
God Bless All of Us!
Patricia Abkemeier
September 22, 2002
I was Kelly's roommate in College and I remember how close your family is. I know your dad is in heaven and is watching over your family. My prayers are with you.
Lara Peterson
September 11, 2002
Sue -- I know that you and the kids miss Jeff so much. I have a hard time believing that things are as they were fated to be -- if that were so, Jeff would be home with you, the kids and getting to know Hannah right now. However, I know that we have to keep moving forward -- and I am so impressed with your ability to do so, and keep focused on your family. Just know that I am keeping you, Jeff and 9/11 in my heart, so that Jeff is not forgotten.
I'm so thankful for being able to share thoughts wtih you this past year, and cannot wait to meet one day soon.
Your fellow JuneBug,
Lara
Ron Hamilton
September 11, 2002
Jeff was a fellow minister in the Conservative Congregational Christian Conference. His loss has made the experience of September 11 very real to me and our congregation in Woodbury, Minnesota. I am inspired by his the testimony of Jeff's life which is characterized by his "seeking to live this radical vision of Jesus Christ."
Donald Crosse
September 11, 2002
Suzanne,
I knew Jeff from our time together at North Central College, in addition to having several classes together we worked together on our Masters Project. I believe I met you and your children the evening we presented it at North Central. (You may not know that North Central keeps videos of these presentations.) Jeff and I talked a great deal and although he and I never talked about religion I knew that he was pursuing this masters degree (and his theology degree) so that he could secure a position where he could spend more time at home with you and the children.
I enjoyed knowing Jeff and know that if there is a heaven he will be there waiting for us. My best wishes to you and your family.
Sincerely,
Don Crosse
Angela Peneschi
September 11, 2002
Mrs. Mladenik and family,
I personally did not know your husband I was informed of your loss from your brother in an email. I want to express my deep condolences to you and your family. My Uncle was in New York that day on business in the Trade Center. My family wasn't sure of his whereabouts til almost evening, I know that is nothing compared to what you are going thru. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
God Bless You.
Karen Zogas-Clark
September 11, 2002
Dear Sue and family,
I know that you and your family have faced trying challenges in the past, but Jesus always provided you with the strength to weather the storms. I have prayed so often that he would continue to give you and your family the courage and strength you required to perservere through these dark days. I also pray that as time continues, you can look back on your time with Jeff, not with a heavy pain-laden heart, but with the gentle melody of memories that bring smiles. I was thrilled to know, you have used your gift from God, your love of children not only to nurture your own, but to share it with those children who would never otherwise know how wonderful it is to be loved and cared for. My best to your and your family. I hope we meet again soon.
Affectionately,
Karen
Terry Vinegar
September 10, 2002
Hello my name is Terry Vinegar. I feel very very sad for you about your lost one on September 11,2001. I can't bel. this happened. Your loved one was a brave American.
Sincerly, Terry V. From Elk Middle.
Frank and Beth Kminek
September 8, 2002
We are both thinking of you at this both sad and exciting time. We know of you all through Marion and Frank and understand your grief. We will be thinking of you all these next few days. We are also excited about little Hannah as you are with her at this time! We hope to get our referral 4-7weeks from now! You'll be in our thoughts and prayers always. Beth & Frank
Sherri Adams
August 26, 2002
"I thank my God upon every rememberance of you, always in every prayer of mine making request for you all with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now, BEING CONFIDENT OF THIS VERY THING, THAT HE WHO HAS BEGUN A GOOD WORK IN YOU WILL COMPLETE IT UNTIL THE DAY OF JESUS CHRIST; just as it is right for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart, inasmuch as both in my chains and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers with me of grace. For God is my witness, how greatly I long for you all with the affection of Jesus Christ. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment , that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ to the glory and praise of God." Philippians 1:3-11 (NKJV)
To Jeff my friend, partner in ministry and brother in Christ,
Your ministry continues through the influences of your faith,,the grace of God and the conviction of our commitment to the Lord.
To Sue, Kelly, Dan, Josh, Grace and Hannah,
You continue to be in my prayers.
Faithfully,
Sherri
Glynn & Kim Breuer`
July 30, 2002
Sue, our hearts and prayers still are with you... We all shared a really long DTC period for Grace and Jenna and it was worth it.. I'll always remember that!
Praying for you even now... Jeff was a wonderful man and his legacy and faith are still living on..
Fran Cox
July 29, 2002
We have good friends who have adopted two "china dolls" that we love very much. Our friend sent the emailintroducing your husband and family to us. Please know that you are in our prayers as you raise your children to know their father and their Heavenly Father. Our prayer for you specifically is that you know intimately that your Heavenly Father will be a "husband to the widow and a father to the fatherless" for you.
Love in Christ...Reg and Fran Cox
Patricia Castraberti
July 20, 2002
We are June01 DTC and are waiting to travel to meet our daughter. I just read about your husband. My heart aches for you. It is unbelieveable to think about what your are going through. In the event we travel to China in the same group, please know you have a friend in me. God bless you.
Chris Martin
June 24, 2002
To Jeff Mladenik's family
I did not know Jeff but my boss is his cousin and Kelly went to school with my niece. From everything I have heard about him he was considered to be a very special man. His journey from learning about God in one faith and "rediscovering" Him through another faith is inspiring. I feel as though he has touched my life even though we never met. I believe he lives on for the example he set and the love he had for others. You, his family were lucky to have had him in your lives.
June 8, 2002
DEAR GOD SHINE YOUR LIGHT ON THIS BEAUTIFUL MAN OF GOD..JEFFREY PETER MLADENIK AND MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PEACE WITH GOD AND HIS ANGELS..GOD BLESS HIS LOVING FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS..GOD BLESS AMERICA..MAY JESUS AND ST.PETER GREET YOU AT THE GATES OF HEAVEN...AMEN
Arthur Wolf
June 7, 2002
Jeff was a solid leader and his passing will leave a void. I worked with Jeff for a short time and enjoyed every second. May his eternal path be filled with peace and love.
Serena Locklear
June 3, 2002
I am a friend of Kelly Mladenik and though I have not met her father personally, I can feel and see the love for him through Kelly and all the wounderful things she has to say about her father. From all the script I read of Jeff I think I can say that God has blessed all the lives that he has changed and inspired. My prayers are with the Mladenik family and all the others who have lost their loved ones on Sept. 11th.
William Cirignani
May 24, 2002
We too frequently go through life self-centered, oblivious to the reality that extends beyond our own heartbeat. And it is a shocking thing indeed when we run smack into someone who won’t let us continue that way. Someone who looks you in the eye and challenges you to reconsider not just what you do, or what you believe, but challenges you to reconsider whom you will become. Someone who doesn’t just talk the talk, but walks the walk. Someone who doesn’t just point out the problem, but shows you the fix. Someone who doesn’t just send you off on your own, but who lifts you up with his own arms. It was a shocking thing indeed to run into Jeff Mladenik.
And even though I am many months removed from the day I lost him, and even though the deep ache of loneliness that joined me that ugly day stabs at me always, Jeff still shocks me. I see him often in my mind’s eye, his arms on his knees, his intense eyes looking up and through me. And I can still hear his voice reverberating in my heart, still saying the same thing: “Bill, my brother, it’s Jesus, man. It’s Jesus!” When this happens, I sometimes find myself answering him: “Yes,” I cry, often out loud, “I know the answer is Jesus. I know. But it’s just, well, I liked it better when you told me over your steaming cup of Starbucks’ coffee, when you were here with me.” But when I say these last words – and even now as I write them – the humilating truth slaps against me. To my shame I discover in these words that I am, despite Jeff’s best efforts to point me to the fix, still self-centered.
Toby Zeman
May 17, 2002
Words cannot express the sorrow I feel for your family through this senseless disaster. God Bless you all and may you find strength in each other and the memories of your loved father/husband/brother/son.
Denee Frazer
May 9, 2002
I will never forget the touching prayer that Jeff said over all of us at the reunion of our Fu daughters from China. It touched my heart & showed us what kind of caring, compassionate man he was. His wife and children all meant so much to him and it was evident in his actions. And as he walked us through his church, you could hear the pride in his voice and see the look of sheer happiness on his face. His faith and workplace ministry has helped many people in their struggles with being a Christian in a very competitive dog eat dog work environment. And I feel that Jeff was leading people to Christ on Flight 11. God chose Jeff to help others that day because of the man he was. However, my heart goes out to Sue and his children, who miss him very much. We will always be there for you,
The Frazer's
Shannon Holubetz
May 2, 2002
It is with great regret I look back at the time I now realize I didn't spend getting to know Jeff. One must always remember that life is precious, and we must never neglect to make those connections which are vital vital to our soul's existence as tomorrow is never guaranteed. I will forever hold Jeff in my heart as a relative and brother under God. You will live on.
Aimee Kondratenko
April 15, 2002
I lost my beloved sister, Suzanne, in the World Trade Center on September 11. I am so sorry that the horror of 9/11 has also touched this beautiful family. May God help the Mladenik family with their suffering.
Scott Rismiller
April 11, 2002
Jeff was my boss/friend/mentor at the time he was taken, and meant a lot to me. I still hear his vernacular in my speach as I work day-to-day with the team. Jeff was special and will always be remembered by those who knew him.
Lindsey Sturch
April 8, 2002
I am only 12 years old but Sep. 11 hit me hard and i would just like to express my sorrow for your lost one. Every night when i go to bed i pray for every one who died that die and tonight i will give a special pray for you!
Aly Van Cleave
March 21, 2002
All my sincere thoughts are with Mr. Mladenik and his wonderful, loving family.
Sheila Werland
March 20, 2002
May you find peace and comfort in your faith and may your family be wrapped in God's loving arms for as long as it takes to heal. Love and charish each memory and you will find it a comfort in days to come.
Kristin Kapolas
March 13, 2002
Sue, Kelly, Josh, Dan, and Hannah...
I just wanted you to know that my thoughts are with you each and every day and that I admire the courage that I know you all have had through this.
David Youtz
March 11, 2002
I am writing to express sadness and remembrance on behalf of the community of China adoptive families, of which the Mladenik family is a part. We think of you, Jeffrey, and of your wife and children. We wish them courage, grace and strength.
With love,
David Youtz
President
Families with Children from China, Greater New York
susan & james mccloskey
March 11, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers continue to go out to your family, Sue.
Another FU family...
The Princes
February 26, 2002
Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you, Sue and your little ones both home and waiting to come home.
We are July '01 DTC and when we heard of Jeff being on Flight 11, I thought of your family everytime I heard or saw anything for 9/11.
We are so sorry that this tragedy had to touch your family so closely.
We will continue in prayer for God's strength for you all and will rejoice with you when your's and Jeff's precious daughter Hannah comes home.
In Christ,
The Princes
Birmingham, AL
DTC July 2001 for Bethany
Bonnie Voges
February 25, 2002
My husband and I too are adopting from China. Our hearts go out to your family and hope you are united with Hannah soon!
J S
February 23, 2002
From reading the biography on Jeff, he sounds like he was a God-filled person willing to do what it took to save souls. Remember there is hope because he is now in heaven with our heavenly father, and you will see him again.
Christine LaCava
February 4, 2002
It had been a few years since we had last spoken, but I've thought about Jeff and his friendship to me often since moving here to Portland, OR in 1999, initially to work for a business client he had helped me to develop. I'll remember Jeff for his confidence and belief in me as a business-woman and as a Christian. I'll remember his kindness and tender-heartedness towards others. I'll remember our business trips together and our many talks about the Bible, God, and his family which he loved so much.
What an honor to have known him and to have been influenced by him. I miss you, Jeff.
Lisa Trosien
February 4, 2002
Sue: I was deeply saddened by Jeff's passing, but I also knew that he undoubtedly brought comfort to those he was with at the time of the tragedy. I pray for you and your beautiful family. I am so happy to hear that Hannah is coming home this summer.
Lisa, Tom, Jenna and Macie
The Early Family
January 27, 2002
We've never met the Mladenik family but share a DTC (dossier to China) month with them. The entire adoption community has been shaken by what happened. Everyone wishes you peace and hope for a brighter future Sue! Hannah is waiting. (((HUGS)))
Jacqueline Walker
January 24, 2002
Jeff was a very vibrant speaker and really on fire for the Lord. He inspired me everytime I heard him teach and his memory still inspires me to put God first. Thank you for sharing him with us.
(Foundations Class, Christ Church of Oakbrook)
Sandy Lagestee
January 23, 2002
The words written in this article only represent a fraction of the kind of person of God that Jeff was. Being an eager listener in Jeff's bible study class, I will always feel deep gratitude for what he taught me about God's love, forgiveness, and grace. Jeff's legacy and his precious family will always remain in my heart.
Marisa & Paige Hanson
January 20, 2002
Jeff was an amazing man and part of a special family we shared. Our families and especially our daughters hold a bond that will be strong forever, just as Jeff would have wanted it. I pray for the strength that will be needed and am here for the Mladenik family for whatever,in spirit and body. We love you! Your FU family FOREVER!
Archie&Diane Tabor
January 14, 2002
Our prayers go out to all the families that God will guide you and embrace you with His love
Teresa Jahn
January 11, 2002
We are deeply sorry for your loss of Jeffrey. May his deep faith, his life and love live on in all who love him. May warm memories of times together lighten the pain in your hearts. Our hearts cry with you.
America Cries
We see your sorrow-
and our hearts cry....
We can not erase your pain
but you do not have to face the anguish alone-for we-
-the American people-
are beside you.
We so desperately want to have the touch that brings you comfort,
the strength that gives you courage,
and the words to lighten your spirits.
And when we are left speechless
may the silence of our nation weave love into your hearts
to ease your sorrow.
May you find healing through our nation's strength as we-
-the American people-
face this difficult time together. Our hearts are with you. Teresa Jahn
Dixon, IL
Ashley Dominguez
January 8, 2002
I was wacthing the news and in front of my very scard I eyes I saw everything that happen and how it happen and to everone who lost some one my prays go to you 4 life and I am sorry about the one youlost I hopr you are taking it ok.God Bless You and your Soul
Michael Brazeal
December 15, 2001
Dear Mladenik Family,
My prayers go out to you daily. As a fellow pastor I know that God is in full control and has a plan and purpose in all that happens in our lives. We must trust by faith alone that He will use even these circumstances for good in some way. I wear a wrist band each day to remind me to pray for Jeff's family and friends. (We know Jeff has already been promoted to Heaven). May God bless you all tremendously during this very difficult time.
Pastor Mike
Deanne Kooima
December 3, 2001
My thoughts and prayers are with the family Jeffrey left behind. I pray that God will comfort them with all the memories they have of their husband and father.
Kathy Swaringen
October 19, 2001
In loving memory of Jeffrey, on October 10th, I walked 1 mile dedicated to Jeffrey and those he left behind. Jeffrey will not be forgotten.
This is my way of honoring Jeffrey as an individual in this public mass tragedy.
May God bless and comfort you in this time of such saddness.
Holly Swanson
October 14, 2001
My heart goes out to your family and friends, may you rest in peace always and forever.It sounds like you were a remarkable man.....may god bless.
Karen Staley
September 27, 2001
My heart goes out to you. There aren't enough words to express the sadness and devestation the world feels at your loss.
Barbara Bolin
September 27, 2001
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO YOU ALL.MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
JEFF MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
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