Photo courtesy of Anderson Funeral Service - Crozet
Crozet, Virginia
Aug 24, 1980 – Dec 5, 2023
Jason Panek passed away on December 5, 2023. Jason worked as a Registered Nurse and Nurse Practitioner before becoming a professor of Nursing at Piedmont Virginia Community College and was the Interim Dean of the Nursing program this semester. He loved being a nurse and serving others, and he loved preparing students for this noble profession. He also loved Star Wars and amassed a large collection of action figures. He was an amazing dungeon master, a “Trekkie,” and a sci-fi enthusiast in general. If it was nerdy, he was into it.
His nerdy legacy lives on in his children Alice and Evelyn. He is also survived by his wife Megan, his mother Lynn Panek, father Alan Panek, his sister Jackie Braund, and his labradoodle Luke (named after Luke Skywalker, of course).
Jason quietly battled depression for most of his adult life. He believed strongly in breaking the stigma around mental illness. If you know anyone who is in crisis or suicidal, please call the Suicide and Crisis Hotline by dialing 988. You can also visit the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for more resources.
A private memorial service will be held in his home state of Wisconsin (GO PACKERS!). Please visit our memorial page and post a funny anecdote or meme that reminds you of Jason (he was famous for sending silly memes). In lieu of flowers, please consider donating in Jason’s memory to the Region Ten Community Services Board using the link located in the memorial page.
Read MoreI will forever be grateful for all the support you provided me during my first semester of nursing school. I appreciate you being there for me during the hardest time of my life and all the kind words . You will truly be missed
Tenisha Douglass
March 24, 2024 | Locust Grove, VA | Student
Professor Panek was an excellent professor a a kind hearted man. He will never be forgotten.
Caleb Moxley
January 07, 2024 | Lynchburg, VA | Student
Jason at a concert with my daughter, my wife, and myself
I love Jason Panek. I will miss his smile, his thoughtfulness, his heart emojis, and the funny things he said.
Dave Hess
December 09, 2023 | Crozet, VA | Friend
Dean Panek was one of the kindest people I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I have been an adjunct for PVCC about 2 and 1/2 years now and it was when he took over as interim dean that I knew this program was turning around. He provided the adjuncts an opportunity to meet and ask questions so that we knew exactly what was expected. The time and energy he took in developing an orientation for us goes to show you what kind of Man he was. His passion for the nursing profession showed...
Renee Leftwich
December 08, 2023 | Charlottesville, VA | Coworker
Jason had an unmatched capacity to help anyone around him feel seen, heard, and valued. I had the privilege to work with him and call him my friend. He was a truly gifted teacher and helped so many wonderful nurses become who they are today. Much love to his family, friends, students, and colleagues
Maria Moore
December 08, 2023 | Coworker
He was so dedicated to this program and all of his students. He truly radiated love and compassion here at pvcc. His presence will be deeply missed. Sending love and prayers to his entire family.
Morgan Gray
December 08, 2023 | Palmyra, VA | Student
Truly a light to the school and community. I wish peace for his family during this time.
Olivia LaRosa
December 08, 2023 | Palmyra, VA | Student
Dean Panek was not only a wonderful dean, but also a very kind soul who loved to help others. The students at PVCC will miss you dearly. We will carry your memory with us.
Jaylene Batten
December 08, 2023 | Dyke, VA | Student
The best Dean we could ask for! I will never forget all Dean Panek’s help this semester. Prayers for his family and loved ones.
Tiffany Lambert
December 07, 2023 | Mount Solon | Student
