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Steven PAROZANIN Obituary

PAROZANIN, Steven 63, passed a-way Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2014; he died of natural causes. Steve was born in Chatham, Ontario, May 15, 1951. His family moved to St. Petersburg in 1955. Steve graduated from St. Petersburg High School in 1969. He earned his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Tampa in 1973 and his Master's Degree from USF in 1978. He taught sociology and government at Dixie Hollins High School from 1974 until 2003 when he retired after thirty years of service. Steve was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Vivian Panich Parozanin; he is survived by his maternal aunt, Louise Panich; several cousins residing in Canada and France; and many, many grieving friends and colleagues. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held Saturday, Aug. 16, at 2 pm at Northwest Church of Christ, 6355-38th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, followed by a covered-dish reception (details provided at the service). R. Lee Williams Funeral Home www.rlwilliams.com

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Published by Tampa Bay Times on Aug. 10, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Steven PAROZANIN

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Michael Boettner

November 4, 2024

I am completely shocked. I just found out. Steve you were such a good friend and teacher, Class of 75. My heart is broken. You and I have laughed and cried for over 45 years. I'm going to miss you , you big TURKEY. You were loved.

Gary Wilson

August 4, 2020

We have not forgotten you Mr. P! You are Loved!

Lois Brown

August 4, 2020

It’s been 6 years already, I miss you.
Love, Lois

BD

September 4, 2014

Steve was never my teacher. He was my friend. The outpouring from his students on this site is an amazing tribute. Steve, you were one of the good guys.

Howard Burchuk

August 29, 2014

An educator who loved what he did. A wonderful son. Its been years and now only precious memories. Say hi to my mom up there.

George Downe

August 25, 2014

Steve, you have been my unflinching friend for 45 years. I eventually moved north and did not know your acquaintances other than Chris. I didn't know of your passing until today August 25. I was so fortunate to see you on my visits down. You introduced me to my future wife, Cindy, in 1970 whom I married in 2000. We are both devastated. God bless you, old friend. I love you. Cindy loves you. The world's a colder place to us now.

Stephanie (Miller)Williams

August 19, 2014

Mr. P.
You were a fantastic teacher and I loved your class at Dixie Hollins. I will always remember you.

From Dixie Hollins 1989 Yearbook

August 19, 2014

Lisa Cole DHHS Class of '86

August 18, 2014

Mr. P, you touched so manyin your lifetime, may you rest in peace and your legacy live on.

Crystal Bradley Cook

August 17, 2014

Mr. P you were an amazing teacher. We were all blessed to have known you. RIP
DHHS Class of 81

Norman Dempsey

August 17, 2014

Mr. P, you were much appreciated. Your style and approachability made what was often a macabre subject memorable and engaging. Peace and love from the DHHS c/o 1988.

Melvin Hamlin

August 17, 2014

Mr. P you truly were a class act. Anyone that was having a difficult time always seemed to get a little easier around you. You had a true gift in the ability to touch so many hearts and lives of so many students. A remarkable spirit indeed

Pam Scott-Harvey

August 16, 2014

Mr. P, your legacy lives on in many??

Darlinda Lewellen

August 16, 2014

Mr. P! You rocked! A teacher I had way back in 1989, your personality was the most impacting at DHHS! You were such an impressionable educator! Much love!

Carolyn Karn

August 16, 2014

Mr. P, you touched many, many lives and made us think. I will always remember your class and contribution to our young minds. Thank you!

Marianne Dean

August 16, 2014

You're now among the stars Mr. P. Enjoy the scenery and the company. <3

Marianne Dean

August 16, 2014

Mr. P - Heaven gained another great, great man. A mentor, teacher, role model and friend. You will NEVER be forgotten. Your wit was sharp and I can only imagine the laughter and joy you have brought to Heaven. RIP Mr. P. <3

Greg Moore

August 15, 2014

Mr P. You always cared so much about your students and your smile with your funny personality made your class so much fun. So many students at Dixie were fortunate enough to be in your class and experience what a great teacher truly is in class. In 1997 I was one of those students who you mentored to always drive to reach life's goals. You will be truly missed but I'm grateful to have known such a outstanding person. RIP Mr. P

Bill Trudell, Class of '78

August 15, 2014

Mr. P, we've known each other since '76 or ‘77, and although I saw you rather infrequently over the last several years, you always remembered me whenever our paths would cross.

I have had teachers that helped me learn, I have had teachers that were interesting, and I have had teachers that made class fun. It was a rare treat to have all three in one person, but that was you. For that, I cannot thank you enough.

The world will be a little colder without you in it, and your humor and quick wit will be missed. I'm guessing that Heaven now has its first black Trans Am.

Sara Ball

August 15, 2014

Mr.P, you will always remain in my heart. Your wit and passion inspired me. I'll always love and remember you fondly.

Craig Robbins

August 14, 2014

Mr. P. was a great instructor/mentor and we were lucky to have known him.....he even took the time to come to our 30th reunion a few years ago... he was a class act

Lois Brown

August 14, 2014

Perhaps they are not
stars in the sky,
but rather openings
where our loved ones
shine down
to let us know they
are happy.___
I will miss you. My life is forever changed.
Love your cousin,

August 14, 2014

My cousin, my friend. I will miss your sense of humor, you made me laugh like no one else could. I will miss our visits and long talks. My life will never be the same.
Perhaps they are not
stars in the sky,
but rather openings
where our loved ones
shine down
to let us know they
are happy.
Love your cousin Lois Parozanin Brown

Don & Carol Bariteau

August 14, 2014

Mr.P, Carol and I were so sorry to hear of your passing. You truly inspired me to think out side the box. It was a joy for us to have you as a teacher and friend through all the years, RIP. and may GOD bless you and your family.(Class of 77 and 78)

Janice Ririe (Hutchinson)Taylor

August 14, 2014

I think I must have been in the first class you taught at Dixie, in Fall of 1974. You brought in Ralph Heath to talk about his recently established Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary. I remember being impressed with how innovative you were, especially for a new teacher. Years later, I attended a class reunion with a friend from a subsequent Dixie class, and you were there! Now that I know you spent your entire career at Dixie, it is clear that you believed in the school and in your students. Thirty years at Dixie. How lucky we were. Bless you.

Jeffrey Zulick

August 14, 2014

Mr. P was a Mensch-a man of honor- a human being. He made a difference in my life and reached out to me when I was I was acting out and failing. I never told him how much he meant to me. I will always feel the sting of that. RIP Mr. P Imagination sometimes does more for our souls than knowledge-Myth often enriches us more than what is written in history books-Experience can be exceeded by hope-dreams often trump cold hard facts- and love is absolutely stronger than death. Laughter is the one sure cure for grief and at our 35th reunion we will remember you and laugh and cry and ponder. These are the ideals Mr. P taught us in his class. Thank you sir.

Tiffany

August 13, 2014

Mr. P, I had you my freshman year in high school at Dixie. You made learning fun! No one ever wanted to miss your class. THank you for all you did for us. May you rest in peace.

Laura Owen

August 13, 2014

Mr Parozanin I am so THANKFUL I had the chance to come back to Dixie Hollins while my Daughter Tiffany had you there too ! Mark and I both had you for teachers And You WERE MY FAVORITE & and most encouraging teacher that I ever had I pray that your soul will be resting in peace that the Lord will stand by your family

Art Bullard

August 13, 2014

Mr. P - as he was known to all of us - was the consummate teaching professional. He had a passion for his work and it was a joy to be in his class. He took the time to get to know you as an individual and that meant a lot to his students. My condolences to his family. Mr. P inspired us to learn and to be inquisitive. That is a gift that just keeps on giving!

Paul

August 13, 2014

I only knew you for a short time, but you were a true friend and I learned so much about myself and life from you. You will always have a special place in my heart.

John Feeney

August 12, 2014

Rest in peace "Mr. P" - John Feeney, Dixie class of '82

Karen Clemens

August 12, 2014

Mr. P. was truly a caring and giving teacher and friend. RIP, you will be missed.

Aimee Greene

August 12, 2014

Mr. P taught me more about Life in 6 weeks than I learned in 12 years of school...You will Never be forgotten! We are here to Make A Difference and YOU have Made A Difference in Countless Lives!

Rob Watkins

August 12, 2014

Mr P, thank you isn't good enough. You took boys & girls and molded us into men & women. You touched so many lives, you were an incredible teacher. RIP Class of 85

Carlos Milan

August 12, 2014

Bye Steve, you always had a kind word, a smile, an encouragement. You truly were a gentle soul. You will be missed.

Jean Marshall

August 12, 2014

Mr. P you were a great and caring teacher . I will never forget you ! Class of 1978 !

August 12, 2014

You were a wonderful teacher I will never forget what you have taught me.

Heather

August 12, 2014

You were a wonderful teacher, who inspired many. You will be truly missed. Rest In Peace.

Kathleen Clarihew

August 11, 2014

What a great teacher and an awesome man always enjoyed his class RIP

August 11, 2014

A friend from long ago. Hope all those who knew you will have fond memories when they think of you.
Elaine W. (SPHS 1969)

Your cousins from Windsor, Ont. Canada

August 11, 2014

We love you and will miss you!We shared many fun and unforgettable summer vacations together over the years.We remember your love of teaching,your enthusiasm and dedication.You were intelligent,witty,funny and always had a good story to tell.Rest in peace knowing that you truly made a difference in this world.

JIMI STEVENS

August 11, 2014

Thanks for being such a GREAT freind and confidant. I'll really miss you buddy!
Hope you find Chris up there!

Donna Parozanin

August 11, 2014

My cousin, my friend...you were loved more than you knew....
you may have been far in distance but always very close in heart and mind......you will missed so much!

Dan Petrino

August 11, 2014

God bless, rest in peace.

Rich Saxton

August 11, 2014

Sorry to hear about your passing. It was great to have you as a teacher so long ago. I remember you were the only teacher to teach us about death.
You will be missed.

Gary Wilson

August 11, 2014

Mr. P was a Great Teacher and Great Friend. To Live, Laugh, and Love was his Message and his Life! Love You Mr. P...

Rachel Tanks

August 11, 2014

Mr. P was one of the greats! I was honored to take your class. RIP Mr. P

Jennifer Mayberry Tarvin

August 11, 2014

Mr. P. You were such an amazing teacher. You cared about each and every one of us. Especially this new kid that moved during her senior year. I appreciated your efforts more than you could have ever known. Rest in Peace Sir! Thank you for making a difference!

Candice Floyd

August 11, 2014

Mr. P was a one of a kind. He didn't just teach classes, he taught you about life. He was truly an inspiration and I can only hope to strive to be as genuine as he was. May he find peace and comfort now and his family know just how much he has touched the lives of others. Rest in peace Mr P.

H.J. ('91)

August 11, 2014

One of the best, one of a kind. He found a way to connect with everyone. He truly cared about everyone and will be missed

Tina Keller Garczynski

August 11, 2014

I learned more from Mr. P than any other teacher in such a short time. He was gifted. He made me re-think about life and death. RIP Mr. P.

Debbi Surman

August 11, 2014

One of the best teachers I ever had. He didn't just teach a subject, he taught us about how to live to the best of our ability. Mr. P, you will be missed. Thank you for being the teacher than turned many students around.

August 10, 2014

For Mary and I, you were an absolute gem. We not only enjoyed teaching with you all those years at Dixie, but we valued you as a true friend. Reading the entries tonight only reinforces what a great teacher and person you are. God Bless You.
Wynne and Mary Canny Black

Tim Hall

August 10, 2014

Being the youngest of five kids in my family - all of whom went to Dixie Hollins - I knew of "Mr. P" long before my freshman year from my older siblings. When I was finally a student at Dixie, it was easy to see what all the fuss had been about. He was a favorite amongst us students for sure. And based on the postings on here, that sentiment was true for years and years. When we found out our class schedule, it was a real treat and honor to be able to say "I got Mr. P!" RIP Mr. Parozanin. Thanks for being you and touching the lives of so many young adults. c/o 1983

Mike Buckingham

August 10, 2014

Mr. P,

Myself and many other Dixie Rebel students will never forget you. Thanks Mr.P..... Mike Buckingham-Class of 1986

Gordana Schneider

August 10, 2014

Thank you Mr. P for encouraging creativity, discussion, and being a remarkable Teacher!!! Rest in peace.....

August 10, 2014

Steve was my teacher , friend and mentor. He made a difference in the world and in my life. He loved his job as a teacher and every one he touched. Steve gave me direction as a young man, how to give get involved with the world. He inspired me to to get an education and love life. I can't explain how he changed my life...I am so blessed to have have him as a teacher. Class of 1977...rest in peace my friend.

Carmen Sotolongo Kelley

August 10, 2014

I had the pleasure of teaching with him at Dixie 1991- 97.So sad to see, my heart felt condolences to family, friends and students who had the privilegeof knowing him

Jennifer

August 10, 2014

Thank you for making life easier Mr P.
May you rest in peace.

Kelly Bennett

August 10, 2014

Mr. P was one of the best. Great teacher and friend. I was lucky enough to meet him in 9th grade when he taught me American Government. My junior year I took his Sociology class. I will never forget the life lessons he taught. He never judged and treated everyone equally. He was there for me when I needed to talk. He impacted my life more than he ever knew. I ran into him a few years ago and he remembered our talks. It was as though we never parted. He truly touched 1000's of lives and will be missed dearly. Rest in Peace, Mr. P. Look up my dad. I know he was looking down on us when you got me through a rough patch in my life. God Bless
Kelly Morris Bennett, Class of '87.

Laurie DeCresie

August 10, 2014

Mr. P, you were one of a kind. You left a huge footprint on this world. RIP.

Angel Peters

August 10, 2014

He touched so many lives with his wit and caring attitude to the students. Mr. P challenged us to think differently and be ourselves. He will be missed, but always remembered.

Harry Brown

August 10, 2014

You always encouraged your students to reflect on the legacy they would leave once they were gone. Reading through these comments we can all see that your legacy of compassion reaches from those of us who had you as a teacher in the 70s all the way to those students you had only a few years ago. RIP--you earned it! Class of '79

Dianna Burpee

August 10, 2014

One of the best teachers I ever had the honor and pleasure of knowing. No ever said "I think I will skip Mr.P's class...a true mentor...teacher and someone who truly cared about the students he taught. RIP Mr.P....it was an honor knowing you sir....

Cynthia Mackintosh

August 10, 2014

Mr. P was an awesome teacher! Both my brother & I had him. Now that I'm a teacher, I get it. He was so engaging with the students. I was so shy in class, and he would get me out of my shell, so to speak, when I was in his class. I always looked forward to his Sociology class. He will be missed. RIP -Class of 1990.

TAMMY KENDREW(BOOK)

August 10, 2014

No one EVER skipped Mr P's class......he was the best! RIP Buddy

August 10, 2014

Well done, Steve P and thank you. Your high academic expectations and your wonderful help and understanding of your colleagues, your students and their parents have echoed through the years. Dr. Burke (DHHS Principal 1977-81)

Willis Bullard

August 10, 2014

I am a better human being for having Mr. P as a teacher and mentor in life. The lives he touched... The minds he helped develop... What a legacy he leaves behind.

Kim Stafford-Van Voorhis

August 10, 2014

RIP Mr P. You will always be remembered by all of us whose lives you touched as a teacher, mentor and friend.

Brandi Barilla

August 10, 2014

Mr. P was such an amazing teacher. He will truly be missed.. he was always there for every one of his students. Class of 1994. Brandi Evans

Kim Hughes

August 10, 2014

Thanks Mr. P for being one of those teachers who enjoyed teaching and therefore made learning enjoyable to your students. You treated us like you liked us and for that, we liked you. I will remember you, your class and that gold, Transam with the fondest of memory. Rest in Peace.

August 10, 2014

What an amazing teacher and man he was. A teacher who could truly connect with his students. He will be missed.

Diane Sellers

August 10, 2014

So sorry and shocked to hear of Steve's passing. He taught me at Dixie and remained a friend of occasional contact throughout the years. We have lost an incredible mind and educator, and a man with a wonderful sense of humor, who was always up for making me laugh through any adversity. R.I.P. Steve. You are loved, you will be missed, and you made our world a much better place for having known you.

Ivan Surcy

August 10, 2014

I am totally shocked. Not only was Steve an extraordinary educator, he was a very dear friend. We've been friends over 30 years and I just spoke with him a week and half ago. My heart is truly heavy and I will miss him dearly. Rest in peace my dear friend!

August 10, 2014

P my son you will be remembered with a smile and a laugh from me. I loved your class and you taught me so much about life and death and how to embrace them both. You had our class create our own epitaphs and at the time I didn't really get it but now that I'm in the middle of my life I understand and appreciate your efforts even more. God Bless you ans your family Mr P. You were one in a million and I have no doubt you will be missed by many !

Juley Roman-Haddick. St Pete, FL. (Class of '81)

Kimberly Rae English-Cole

August 10, 2014

I never had Mr. P for a teacher, but he was always there for all the kids... whether he was their teacher or not. He helped me one particularly rough day and I have never forgotten that. Merci beaucoup Mr. P.

David Brown

August 10, 2014

Mr. Parozanin (never could bring myself to call him Mr. "P") was one of those rare teachers that embraced the profession of educator. He engaged with his students, refused to teach by rote, and forced those lucky enough to be in his class to think. He leaves a legacy of students with open minds, and images of his famous sideburns, moustache, and black Trans Am.

Sam Iacopelli

August 10, 2014

Mr P. was one heckuva man; the best school-teacher I ever had the privilege ( and with this man it WAS a privelege) of learning from, and a kind and giving soul. Once, when I had an issue that my 17 year-old brain thought was the most devastating and impossible thing to get through, I stopped in his classroom to talk. He listened. Mr P. cried with me and then made me laugh. He didn't even really give me advice, except to say that it will get better. BUT. In that moment, as I exited that old decrepit portable, he had saved me. He had made me believe. That is just who he was. A part of him shall forever remain with me, and I'm so very thankful for having known him.

Catherine schwenk

August 10, 2014

Mr. P. You will truly be missed by all

Cindi Young-Lambert

August 10, 2014

Thirty-nine years have passed since you were my teacher in Sociology, I will always remember you. You were a blessing and a breath of fresh air to students. Loving memories.

August 10, 2014

MR. P. You will always be remembered and loved for your ability to touch the minds of your students, and to inspire us to be our best, thank you my friend RIP

August 10, 2014

Steve, as a fellow teacher and friend-you were crazy fun, we shared many laughs together and many loving memories. Your unique way with words made us think, and cry with hysterical laughter. You will be greatly missed...see you on the other side with Love! Marie Wilber, teacher colleague, friend....

Martin Schnitzler

August 10, 2014

Mr. P was an awesome teacher and great person. I always looked forward to his class even on a bad day, his class and Mr. P himself would make your day better. He will be missed.

Denise Chapman

August 10, 2014

Mr. Parozanin taught not only the prescribed curriculum, but life lessons as well. Teachers like him are rare and precious gems. RIP Mr. P

Toni Weaver

August 10, 2014

Great teacher from back in the day!

Jill Musgrave Amaya

August 10, 2014

I had Mr. P's class at Dixie in 1983. He was a fantastic teacher who everyone loved. It says so much about him as a teacher that the news of his death spread so fast and so wide. He will definitely be missed. Rest in peace, Mr. P.

DeDee Jewell Haffner

August 10, 2014

Mr. P. was a great teacher, he knew how to reach the kids and we did learn along with joke around.... He was easy to talk to when you needed advice, and just a fun person to be around... I had him as my teacher in 1979

Robert See

August 10, 2014

You were a great teacher that touched so many over the years you will be missed but remembered fondly. bless your family in this time and let them remember all the good you have done.

Gore Zvobgo

August 10, 2014

Thanks for teaching us how to think! Still remember your sweaters. Your legacy lives on in more lives than you will ever know.

Jenn Goldstein

August 10, 2014

Mr. P was an Amazing teacher. He will be missed by all. RIP!

John Stickney

August 10, 2014

Good man, great life instructor and a respected teacher. One of the few I will remember from my days at Dixie.

Kathy Drouin

August 10, 2014

Steve was a fantastic teacher and supportive colleague. He inspired so many.

Paul

August 10, 2014

Great Teacher one of a kind... RIP....

August 10, 2014

Mr.P..what can I say...you shaped so much of how I think all in a good way. I will never forget you and what you taught me. A great teacher, you will be missed. Audrey class of 1978

Kathy Cole

August 10, 2014

I took Sociology from Mr. P in 1982 or '83. EVERYONE wanted to be in his class. He was so cool. Smart, funny, quick-witted! Lots of good memories from his class and just passing by in the hallway etc.

Barbara Thibodeau

August 10, 2014

In remembrance of a kind, loving, giving soul.

Rhonda Yuhasz

August 10, 2014

I will never forget Mr P..... most unforgettable teacher ... huge impact on my life and the lives of so many. RIP

Barbara Thibodeau

August 10, 2014

Thank you Mr. Parozanin for being a wonderful, inspiring teacher. You challenged us to think about important issues without imposing your own beliefs. You were a passionate person, full of life, always with the best of intentions. You were my sociology teacher at DHHS in 11th grade (1993), then you allowed me to be your teacher's assistant in 12th grade (1994). You were there during some tough times in my life. Thank you for the advice, encouragement, and friendship. I hope in the years that followed after I left Dixie that life treated you well. You will never be forgotten, and your legacy lives on in the lives of the many people you touched. God bless!

August 10, 2014

Great Teacher one of a kind.RIP...

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