Walter Sam Tesak

Walter Sam Tesak, 56, died on Sunday, January 2, 2011, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center with his family and friends by his side. He was born on February 26, 1954, a son of the late Samen and Helena Melnyczuk Tesak. He attended Proctor High School. He married Marilyn E. Kirley on July 20, 1974. Walter worked in area hospitals, Sullivan's Bar, and most recently at Stanley's Restaurant. He was a member of the Polish Community Club and was an avid sports fan with a great love for the Yankees. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Tesak; a daughter, Kathleen Pike and her husband, Gary; a son, Kristopher Tesak and his wife, Tonya, all of Utica; grandchildren, Brandon Tesak, Justine Pike, Anthony Tesak, Joshua Pike, Samantha Tesak, and Dylan Tesak; brothers, Michael Tesak and his wife, Joan of New Hartford, and Terry Tesak and his wife, Gail of New Hartford; a special friend, Hank Czarnocki of Utica; and several nieces and nephews. The family would like to thank all the staff at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for all the loving care they gave Walter. The funeral will be on Thursday at 10:00 at the Ryczek Funeral Home, 1123 Court at York Sts. Interment will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Calling hours will be Wednesday from 4:00 to 8:00 at the funeral home.