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Paul Panczuk Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Paul Panczuk
Phil Sucilla
July 27, 2009
I can't believe how saddened I am.
Paul and I started out as kids in the first grade at St. Joe's. I knew his family, when they lived in the Commercial Ave apartment...and his dear mother...and his father. We were the gang on 87th street.
Old memories...playing hoops at St Joe's...softball at Bowen...Rainbow Beach...and old SFDS.
I was fortunate to be co-captain with Paul at St. Francis. In 1967, they used to compare him to Dick Butkus. I went on to SIU and Paul went on to Kansas on a scholarship. He had his leg broken pretty bad and returned to
chicago. I met up with him and said, why don't you come down to SIU...he did
and we lived at Wilson Hall.
The rest is history, for all who new him in the later years....My thoughts are with Tanhe and Paul's children.
Also with Peter, Terry, and Mike. I was also sad to her about John.
Goodbye to my oldest friend.
Phil Sucilla
Rev. David T. Mensing
April 11, 2009
To the family of Paul Panczuk and the RICH EAST family in Park Forest -- my profound sympathy in Paul's sudeen loss. Paul came to Rich East while I was still a teacher there (in 1979), and I enjoyed a cordial relationship with him until I retired in 1986 to enter the ministry. Both fellow staff members and students -- including present students at East who are members of my congregation -- ALL have nothing but good things to say about Paul and pleasant memories of a man who was truly "there" for his students and genuinely interested in their welfare and success. We will all miss him very much!!
Danielle St. John/Wasik
April 3, 2009
My thoughts go out to your family. I'll always remember our trip to see the Oldies Show.
Rich Mayer
April 3, 2009
Paul was a great man who helped me in so many ways. I will be forever a better person for knowing him. He always took the time to get me back to what was important in life. As my coach he was hard at times but for reasons i understand now. As his aid the time i spent talking to him kept me in line and positive. As his friend he did nothing but make my life better every time we talked. What a smart kind and good guy i have never known a better person. I will miss ya Coach
kim & Bob White
April 2, 2009
I told my husband that I thought something was wrong because so many cars had been next door at the Panczuks lately and I had a bad feeling about it so when I went online and heard the news my husband and I felt horrible. We just want Tahne and the entire Panczuk family to know that we're deeply saddened. We don't know exactly what happened and I just waved to Paul in the driveway the other day. He was probably one of the nicest, kindest man we ever met. He was so sincere and thoughtful in a quiet way and we will miss seeing him on our street. He always took the time to say Hi! to our kids and ask them how they were doing. I just told our son Alex who is away at school in Iowa what happened and he felt terrible. He said he just talked to Paul the other day out in the driveway and that Paul was so nice and always took the time to talk. We want you to know that we really liked Paul and are so sorry to all of you but want you to know that the world was a better place with your dad in it and we will really miss him. God Bless All of You during this diffucult time.
April 2, 2009
he was a good man who touched the lives of many students and improved their behavior. he was my dean for the past four years. he was really nice and i was sad when i heard about what happened. mr. panczuk will be forever missed
RON ZIVKOVICH
April 2, 2009
TO JASON, DANA, NICK AND THE ENTIRE PANCZUK FAMILY, YOU HAVE MY DEEPEST THOUGHTS AND CONDOLENCES. I KNEW YOUR DAD BACK FROM THE OLD SOUTH CHICAGO DAYS AND HE WAS ALWAYS SOMEONE I LOOKED UP TO. I DON'T HAVE TO TELL YOU WHAT A GREAT GUY HE WAS BECAUSE YOU ALREADY KNOW THAT. I WILL TELL YOU THAT WE WERE ALL LUCKY THAT HE TOUCHED OUR LIVES IN SOME WAY AND THAT WE ALL WILL REMEMBER HIM FOREVER.
GOD BLESS
RON ZIVKOVICH
Joe Bergthold
April 1, 2009
Paul Panczuk was a great and kind man to all those who he encountered. The impact he had on people was evidenced by the incredible support and love of all of those who came to pay their respects to this great man. My wife, Dana and I, heard story after story about how Paul had a profound impact on their lives. Paul was a humble man and many of these stories he never shared with us as this was just another day at the office for him, so to hear the stories from all of you on Monday made me very proud and truly honored to have known him.
I have always admired him for what he did, what he stood for and the way he went about his life. I have had the honor of being part of his family for several years, as Paul was my father-in-law. Although I never thought of him as my father-in-law, as I loved him as I do my own father. He opened his arms and welcomed me into his family twelve years ago. Tanhe and Paul are great parents and great grandparents. I hope that I can do half as good as job as they did raising their children with my own.
To all of those who have shared their stories with our family over the last several days or who have shown us love and support during this difficult time we are eternally grateful.
carol renneker
April 1, 2009
We are all thinking of you and sending our prayers. my sister, brother, and i all have great memories of spending time with jason, dana, and nick as kids. we love you all and know that "uncle" paul is happy in heaven.
Dana (Panczuk) Bergthold
April 1, 2009
As I write this, I am reminded of all of the great things about dad. Sitting in the stands at all of my sports games (even after a long day teaching and coaching), reviewing my papers for grammar and style, big bear hugs and his fantastic smile when he saw his grandkids. I would write forever...these thoughts are etched on my heart and that love I share with all of the wonderful people that support us at this time. I know dad would be humbled and never admit to all of the great things he has done. It was all a part of his job as a dad, educator, friend, colleague, and human being. I am blessed to have had him in my life and as my brother said..."59 years with dad wasn't enough, but even 159 years with dad still wouldn't be enough." Thank you to all of you for sharing your great memories and stories. It makes me feel good that the positive life he lead will reach many in the future.
Paul Winfrey
April 1, 2009
On behalf of the Police Liaison Program at Rich East and all the Police Officers who were blessed enough to work with Paul for all of these years, our condolences go out to Paul's family. We officers were fortunate enough to work hand-in-hand with Paul every day, and thereby grew to know him extremely well. In the eleven years that I worked with Paul personally, I came to not only respect him, but to consider him a true friend. I continue to be amazed at the number of individuals whose lives were made better because Paul Panczuk touched them.
Paul's presence will continue to be felt in the halls of Rich East, since he has truly become part of this school...from his quiet demeanor and larger-than-life presence, to his endless stories about sports, old movies, and current events, he will be missed but never forgotten.
Bruce & MarySue Firchau
March 31, 2009
Dear Tanhe and family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. My Mom, Audrey, called and told me about Paul. We lived down the street from you on Avenue L. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
March 31, 2009
The Panczuk Family
Memories are forever and no one will ever be able to take that away.
Mr. Panczuk will forever be in our hearts.
My thoughts and prays are with you and your family.
Take Care
Janice
USPS- Frankfort
Josh Rangel
March 31, 2009
I didn't personally know, Mr. Panczuk, but I've had the pleasure of meeting and becoming friends with his son, Nick. It must have taken a wonderful person to raise such a great son. He will be missed and he lives on in his children and all those whose lives he touched.
Karlene Hubbard
March 31, 2009
I was a colleague of Paul's at Rich East. No matter what was happening in Paul's day, he always had a ready smile and something joking to brighten my day. He will definitely brighten the days of all God's children in Heaven.
March 31, 2009
I didn't know Mr. Panczuk but hearing about what happened to him hurt me. I wish his family and friends well. His family will remain in my prayers.
Joe Gbur
March 31, 2009
I first met Paul in the early 70’s at St. Francis de Sales. He was coach Panczuk and I was just one of many students he coached. Paul was a gentle giant. He had a mild and kind manner however; he also possessed the ability to be a little harsh on the ears.
I was lucky enough to stay in contact with Paul as years went by and he went from coach to friend. Sometimes several years would pass between meetings but that didn’t seem to matter much because we would just pick up where we left off. We were friends and that was good enough.
Paul would love to talk about a football game that I played in where St. Francis de Sales beat the number on team in the State. It was a good day for De Sales and every member of that team. When Paul would introduce me to friends of his and he would always start off with the story of that game and the role I played. I would feel special for a while and would think wow; this guy is a fan!
As I stood in line at Paul’s wake and listened to the kind things people were saying about Paul and how he made them feel special also, I realized that I had the fan thing all wrong. I realized that Paul made everybody feel special and that we were all fan’s of Paul.
I will miss you friend.
March 31, 2009
Paul and Tanhe were soul mates in high school. Tanhe, my prayers are with you and your family. L. Retsof
Dennis & Colleen Walery
March 31, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Panczuk family. Paul was a wonderful person who had a smile that was unforgetable. He will be missed. Thanks for sharing him.
Walter Schultz
March 31, 2009
I had the honor of teaching Paul as a student at St. Francis de Sales High School. He was a wonderful student and a hard working athlete. Always a model of what a young man should be in life. The world was a better place because Paul was part of my life. May he rest in leace.
Pat Yarbrough
March 31, 2009
My deepest condolences to the Panczuk family. I was Div Chair at Rich East from 1983-1993 and remember Paul for his warm and friendly spirit. He cared deeply for the students he worked with. He was a respected colleague and good friend. My heart goes out to his family at this time.
Mike Schauer
March 31, 2009
Tanhe and family,please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss. Paul's infectious laugh is something I will always remember.I have a lot of great memories both on the playing field and off.He was a good guy and he will be missed. Mike Schauer
Sammy Vega
March 31, 2009
I never got to know Mr. Panczuk personally but I am a good friend to his youngest son, he raised a good man and after meeting the rest of his family last nite its no question that he was the head of a great family. I was just in awe of the service last nite and the number of people who paid their respects. My prayers are with you guys.
Michael and Sarah Turner
March 31, 2009
What else is there left to say about a man that touched thousands of lives. It was apparent by the masses that came to pay their respects that we were in the presence of greatness.
I was fortunate to have spent 4 years working side by side with Paul in the deans office and will never forget the good times we had. Every Monday, during football season, I would ask him how Saturday's game went and one look from Paul would tell me all I needed to know. One of the things I'll miss the most about Paulie is listening to the stories him and Billy would tell. The two of them together was a comedy show. They would have me in tears from laughing so much.
Paul also loved to talk about family. He would always ask me how my girls were and stressed the importance of spending time with them. Paul loved talking about his children and grandchildren and cherished the time he spent with them. He was a very proud father and papa.
I will never forget you Paulie and all that you taught me. Thank you for being a part of my life. May God bless you.
Kimberly Wasney
March 30, 2009
My sincerest condolences to Mr. Panczuk's family. He was an amazing man and I am so grateful to have known him and been guided by him. He will be truly missed, but I know his spirit will live in the hearts he touched along the way.
Odell Zeigler IV
March 30, 2009
My heart have been saddened and hurt deeply from the lost of my former dean Paul Panczuk. At this times I instantly reflect upon all the memories. In spite of all disagreements I always learned something from Mr. Panczuk. My prayers go out to your family. ~Live In Heaven Forever~
Patrick Fitzgerald
March 30, 2009
Having worked with Paul for about 15 years, it was clear to me from the beginning that he was a special person. He was a calm, hard working, friendly and capable man. He was always on-task, whether as a dean, a coach, or a mentor to dozens of students. Paul had a great sense of humor and we enjoyed many great conversational lunches in the faculty dining room at Rich East. He was a Dean’s Dean. He will be missed by countless people who knew him, even slightly. My prayers are with this wonderful man and his family. Paul, God bless you and grant you perpetual life.
Natasha McElroy
March 30, 2009
Mr. Panczuk was my Honors English Teacher at Rich East in 1993. He was a great teacher and role model who made learning fun. He had a way of encouraging his students to be the best that they could be. I learned a great deal from him and so did my classmates. May god continue to bless his family. I am honored to have learned from such a great educator.
JOHN & RAYMOND witkowski
March 30, 2009
I WAS A "BLOOD BROTHER" BOYHOOD FRIEND OF PAUL'S ON 87th AND ESCANABA BLOCK,BACK IN THE 1950'S. WE PLAYED BASEBALL AND FOOTBALL AT THE CINDER PRAIRIE LOT.SO MANY GREAT MEMORIES.MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL WHO LOVED HIM. GOD BE WITH ALL OF YOU DURING THIS TRYING TIME.
Elliott Daniels
March 30, 2009
I am deeply saddened to hear of the loss of one my favorite people at Rich East. To his wife, children and many family and friends, you are in my prayers and have my sympathy. I am very fortunate to have played for Coach Panczuk for my career at East. He cared about his students as overall people, not just as students or athletes. He will definitely be missed and thoroughly made an impact on my life.
Alan Greenberg
March 30, 2009
I am one of the very fortunate to have been taught by, coached by and eventually be a colleague of Paulie. He is truly one of those special people you meet on life's journey. His impact on the many souls that he has touched will be with all of us forever.
District 227 Food Service Friends
March 30, 2009
To the Panczuk Family, Paul was a frequent guest to our Rich East cafeteria and we will miss his upbeat attitude and smiling personality very much. He will truly be missed by all that he ever came in contact with. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at a very difficult time.
Bobbie Heath
March 30, 2009
Dear Tahne & family,
I was so sad to hear the news. All of your California cousins and nephews and nieces send their love and condolences at this difficult time. Paul was a wonderful and respected man. Mom wants to come see you and is talking about a visit sometime after Easter this year if that will work for you.
I know your Dad and my Dad were both waiting for him at the gates of heaven. Love, Bobbie
Kevin Adams
March 30, 2009
My prayers go out to his family as they deal with this tragic situation. Your Husband, Father, Grandfather is in a better place and you can take solice in the fact that he was loved and respected by so many. I will miss you as my Coach and Friend. I learned so much from you and will always remember what you meant to me. Thank you for everything.
Judie & Marty Paryl
March 30, 2009
Dear Tahne and Family,
I knew Paul from St. Joes, and Marty and I knew him from SFDS. Marty will say that Paul was one of the best football players he ever saw play, and one of the nicest guys. We're sorry for your loss. He was taken too young. God help you during this difficult time.
Marty and Judie (Jaronski) Paryl
Tom Zelinski
March 30, 2009
Nick,
So sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. May God comfort you in your time of loss.
Anthony Winters
March 30, 2009
Mr. Panczuk was a great guy to know. He remembered ALL of his students,even if you thought he didn't know you. He respected us all. Those of us who were his students and athletes from St. Francis de Sales during the 70's very affectionately called him Pooh Bear(behind his back of course). He inspired SO many of us to go forward and develop ourselves from awkward teenagers into responsible adults. He gave us the tough love we needed. Paul was a GOOD guy. We loved him because he loved us.
Earl Gatch
March 29, 2009
You were always motivating, caring and provided us the necessary coaching to be successful on the field and in life. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Kathy Hede
March 29, 2009
Dear Tanhe
This is Kathy(Randulich) Esther's daughter. Marilyn called me to tell me about Paul. I will tell the rest of my family. As you probably remember Paul taught my brother and sisiters at St. Francis. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Kathy
Janelle Lovato
March 29, 2009
I am so happy that I had the honor of knowing Mr. Panczuk. I will remember him as someone who always had a smile, and was easily able to make others smile as well. Mr. Panczuk had such a great heart and spirit, which is deeply reflected within his wonderful family.
Although Mr. Panczuk is no longer with us, he will forever live on in my heart and the hearts of the many people who's lives he has touched.
And to Mr. Panczuk, your trip to the Black Hills is still going to happen, and we'll all be there with you. May you rest in peace and be assured you will be forever loved and missed...
Nick Panczuk
March 29, 2009
I am Paul's youngest son and biggest fan, Nick. I would like to extend our heart felt thanks and appreciation to everyone who has taken a moment to remember the greatest man I have ever and will ever know. It is through your kind words and sentiments that my family and I are able to make it through this trying time. God bless you all.
Chuck Wall
March 29, 2009
Tanhe, Jason, Dana, and Nick,
I was so sad to hear about the passing of Paul. He was such a great man and friend and I will never forget the great times we had playing softball and going out after the games. He will be missed by all.
matt guritz
March 29, 2009
I was so blessed to play for Paul as a young man and to coach with him for eleven years. My life has been so enriched to have shared this world with him. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers.
De'Ronye Thomas-Robinson
March 29, 2009
Mr. Panczuk was a sweet man with a good heart. He was there for me for all four of my years at Rich East. I wish he could have been there to see me graduate. When I cross the stage on May 17, 2009, it will be for him. To the family, I am so sorry for your loss. Shall he still be alive in our hearts.
Jack Pizzo
March 29, 2009
Jason - Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Maria Naumenko Layman
March 29, 2009
To the Panczuk family:
My deepest sympathies on your loss. Paul was 2yrs ahead of me in high school and I knew him as a great athlete and a nice guy. My husband and I had the good forturne to meet him again as my son's coach at Rich East. My son is now a father himself and often speaks of the lessons he learned from "P squared" as he fondly called him. I know Paul made a great impression on many young people. Paul will be greatly missed. Our family is praying for you.
Pizzo and Associates Ltd
March 29, 2009
From the Staff at Pizzo & Associates, our thoughts and prayer's are with you and your family during this hard time.
Brandys Moore
March 29, 2009
Mr. Panczuk got me out of so much trouble at rich east. I don't think I would be graduating if it wasn't for him.
Gladys Boyer
March 29, 2009
Tanny,
Just a note to say that I'll be thinking of you and your family.
With deepest sympathy.
Bonnie Salinas(Roland)
March 29, 2009
REmembered St. Joes and SFDS, lots of great times. Taught patience to many of his friends and students, condolences to his family.
Jennifer Christiansen
March 29, 2009
Paul will continue to be a presence in the halls of Rich East as his legacy lives on in the hearts of the Rocket family. We have all benefited from his compassion, encouragement, and above all else, his sense of humor. He will be dearly missed.
Vickie Panczuk
March 29, 2009
Paul was the best. Kind heart, great personality, understanding. May you walk with the Angels and go with God.
With Love and respect,
Vickie Panczuk
Mike and Mary Anne Wheeler
March 29, 2009
The Lord was looking for a good Coach and in the process found a great man. Paul, you will be missed very much - by your students and your friends. Rest in Peace, Good and Faithful Servant.
Kendall Kerrigan
March 28, 2009
Dear Panczuk Family,
I am a police officer in Olympia Fields and have worked at Rich East as a police liaison for the past 4 years. Working with Mr. Panczuk was a great time even when we were dealing with the most negative of situations. I could sit for hours (if time let) and listen to him and coach Bill Yarborough talk about sports and the "old days" and never get bored. I will miss talking about old movies with him. Mr. Panczuk will be truly missed. My family's thoughts and prayers are with you.
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