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Michael R. Cesarek

FUNERAL HOME

Drake & Son Funeral Home

5303 North Western Ave

Chicago, Illinois

Michael Cesarek Obituary

Michael R. Cesarek, 60, passed away June 3rd, 2004 beloved partner of Gregory Shives; cherished son of Anton and Eleanor; loving brother of Sandra Chapman, Sharon Helberg, Susan Houlihan and Tim; fond uncle to many. As Manager of the Safer Foundation's Youth Empowerment Program, Michael devoted many years of his life in helping disadvantaged youth. Visitation Wednesday 4 to 9 p.m. at Drake & Son Funeral Home, 5303 N. Western Ave. Chicago. In state Friday 9 a.m. Recital of the Rosary 10 a.m. followed by Mass at 10:30 a.m. at St. Andrew Catholic Church, 708 10th St. Rock Falls, IL. Interment Riverside Cemetery. Offerings appreciated to American Cancer Society. Funeral info 773-561-6874.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Jun. 7, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Michael Cesarek

20 Entries

Mary Jo Mohalski

June 10, 2004

Dear Michael,

I am saddened along with all who knew you that my time with you was so brief. I will hold your dry wit, warm heart and mischievous grin in my memories of you always. Your place in heaven was reserved long ago for the happiness you brought to our lives and the strength & love you shared with so many others. Rest peacefully, sweet Michael, and look in on us every now & then for some comic relief!

Love you,

Mary Pat Hembree

June 10, 2004

Greg, I'm sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.

Pat Helberg

June 9, 2004

Michael,

I already miss not having you to talk to! We could communicate without needing to explain.

Although we all miss you terribly, we are joyful that you are now in the presence of God and seeing His shining face, and that all of your suffering is over.

Love,

Pat

Debra Beyerlein

June 9, 2004

Michael and I worked at Safer for many years. He was a sincere, hard working person that I enjoyed talking too and working with. You have my deepest sympathy, Debra Beyerlein

Jennifer Pietrusiewicz

June 9, 2004

Greg,

I am so sorry for your loss, you are in my thoughts.

Tom Cook

June 9, 2004

Sharon,

Our deepest sympathy for the loss of your brother. I know words are inadequate to provide comfort for such a loss, but know that our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Tom & Joan

Tim Cesarek

June 9, 2004

The mountain stands before me,

I must face it every day.

But I’ll not turn around

And I’ll not run away.

Though painful it may be,

I know it’s truly for my best,

And as I climb, though wearily,

I know I’ll pass this test.

For God is with me every step

And sends His grace abundantly,

And I am certain in my heart

It’s God’s will meant for me.

Though filled with pain and sorrow,

I will face the climb each day,

And know my God is with me

And he will show the way.

Whatever mountain you may face,

Take heed to these words true,

And know if God is there for me,

He’s there and loves you too.

_____

I will miss you my Bother until we meet in Heaven.

Joan, Dan, Kathy, Ryan & Zak Shives/Lingo

June 8, 2004

Michael was a very special man and will be missed by everyone who knew him. He held a special place in all of our hearts.

Wally and Eva Chapman

June 8, 2004

Dear Greg,Tony, Nona, and all of the family,

We are so sorry about Michael. He is now at peace and is finally whole after his battle with cancer. May his memories live on in all of us forever. Love, Wally, Eva and kids.

Helen & Bob Cromling

June 8, 2004

Greg,

We Love you and are so sorry for your loss.

Aunt Helen and Uncle Bob

Marie Wendle

June 8, 2004

Michael will always have a very special place in my heart - he has been in my heart all of our 60 years. Sharon, Mike and Marie Cesarek - all born the same year - and shared our lives all these years.

My thoughts and prayers are with you Greg, Sharon, and Aunt Eleanor,Uncle Tony, Sandra, Susan and Tim and all of the family.

I regret that I am unable to attend the services but will be there in spirit and prayer.

Michael - you are at peace with our Lord's reward for your special life of love and service here on earth. I will never forget you.

Noga Ashkenazi

June 8, 2004

Dear Greg,

I hope you remember me. I am the exchange student from Israel who stayed with Kim last year, and got the opportunity to attend your graduation. I was so sad when I heard about Michael, and yet I am happy that I got the chance to meet this extremely kind person. I send you and your family all my love. Noga.

Valerie Wilson

June 7, 2004

Gregory,

We are so very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers always.

I love you, cousin

Valerie (Mary, Chris & Eric)

Kimberlynn Timbers

June 7, 2004

Michael,

You will be in our hearts forever! We are so very proud to say you are my brother and the boys Uncle. Rest in peace.

Love,

Kim, Gus and Tony Timbers

Tim & Deb Cesraek

June 7, 2004

In loving memory of a very special brother.

Sharon Helberg

June 7, 2004

Michael:

Word cannot express how much I am going to miss you. Iam deeply sad but know I will see you in heaven. You complete me.

Love,

Your twin sister, Sharon

Kimberly White

June 7, 2004

Michael,

How can I put into words what you meant to me and this family? You were my Godfather and always had a genuine concern for me. You gave me advice and listened with a whole heart. Our family has an undescribable void. I will miss your sense of humor and laugh.

I will see you in heaven one day.

Your Niece,

Kim

Greg Shives

June 7, 2004

Thank you for visiting Michael's guest book. Michael lost his battle with cancer at 7:30PM on Thursday June 3, 2004 but his spirit is alive and well in the memories of those he left behind and whose lives he touched. Please feel free to share those memories with all of us.

Michael was an extradordinary person in so many ways. I was blessed to have been able to share 26 years of his life. He will be missed.