Peter August Mazurak

1942 - 2020

Peter August Mazurak

Monticello, IL - Peter August Mazurak, 77, passed away at 7:00 a.m., July 26, 2020 at his residence.

Peter was born September 6, 1942 in Berkeley, CA the son of Andrew and Mabel (Logan) Mazurak. He grew up in Lincoln, NE and graduated from the University of Nebraska with a degree in Chemistry. Upon receiving a Master's degree from the University of Wisconsin, he taught chemistry at the UW Center in Marinette, WI before receiving a commission from the US Marine Corps.

He joined the Marines in 1967 out of a "sense of patriotism and adventure." While in Vietnam, Capt. Mazurak (Doc) was a helicopter pilot flying hundreds of successful missions and later served as a flight instructor in Pensacola, FL. After the completion of his enlistment, he flew for Air America of the CIA in Laos, Cambodia, and South Vietnam before returning to Wisconsin.

He married Elizabeth Toepel on June 19, 1977 in Baraboo, WI. Soon after, he received his PhD from the Institute of Paper Chemistry. He went on to become the Technical Director of the Neenah Paper Division, Kimberly Clark Corp, where he held two patents for the highly absorbent material in diapers.

He retired in 2003 to enjoy restoring classic cars and working outdoors. In 2017, he moved to Monticello, IL to be a doting grandfather to Helena and Jack.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Mazurak of Monticello; four children, Sara, Cameron, Klara, and Pamela (David) Walsh; six grandchildren; one great grandchild; and three brothers. He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

A private family service will be held. Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or the Monticello Area Education Foundation. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.mackey-wrightfuneralhome.com