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Kenneth M. PARZYCH

FUNERAL HOME

Coventry-Pietras Funeral Home

2665 Boston Tpk (Rt. 44)

Coventry, Connecticut

Kenneth PARZYCH Obituary

PARZYCH, Kenneth M.

Kenneth M. Parzych was a great man. He moved into eternal life on May 11, 2013. Ken was an amazing husband, father, and Jaju (that's grandfather in Polish). He was a true example of love and compassion to all who knew him. Ken will be deeply missed by his family and friends but his life will always be celebrated. Taught a strong, Polish work ethic by his parents, Stanley and Mafalda of Easthampton, MA, Ken paid for college by working at a dairy farm and by playing drums in a Polka band. He loved his Polka music almost as much as he loved his whoopie pies. While spending a summer as a Polka DJ with his son, he was known to refer to the "toe-tapping music" as "Happy Music for Happy People." In addition to the occasional Polka Hop with his wife Mary, Ken's favorite past times involved his grandkids and his love for the outdoors. Ken could be found visiting the barns at UConn, where he knew most of the cows by name, and would note, "no trip is complete without an ice cream from the Dairy Bar!" Ken loved biking, hiking and kayaking around New England with his wife and also running with his buddies at ECSU. Ken was known by his grandchildren as the inventor of knee-football, as a not-so-graceful ballet dancer, an expert in crabbing, and a world-class cannonballer in the pool. Ken never took for granted the simple beauty of the sunset at the beach on Cape Cod. Ken obtained his B.A. from the American International College, M.A. from the University of New Hampshire, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Connecticut. He taught as Nicholas College, SUNY Fredonia, and spent 38 years at Eastern Connecticut State University, ending as Professor Emeritus. While serving as a department chair for many years, he developed new innovative programs at the University, including the creation of the David Chase Free Enterprise Institute and the Distinguishes Visiting Executive Professor Program. Ken also served on the Connecticut State Governor's Council of Economic Advisors for six years, and as the economic advisor to Governor Ella Grasso. He authored numerous publications in economic journals, and wrote several books on International Trade, Antitrust Law, and Economic Policy. Ken Proudly served his country by teaching active duty Navy personnel, and was a professional consultant to the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. Ken served on the Board of Trustees for Windham Regional Memorial Hospital and was President of the UConn Alumni Association for many years. As a devout Catholic, Ken served on numerous church and diocese councils. For his devoted service to the church, he was appointed by Bishop Daniel P Reilly the honor of Knight of St. Gregory from Pope John Paul II. He was truly a beacon of love and Christian compassion to everyone he encountered and we are confident that he is happily surrounded by Love right now. Despite his overwhelming professional accolades and success, his greatest pride was his family. Married for 49 years to his high school sweetheart, Mary Petcen Parzych, Ken never stopped calling her "his bride" or "ma." For Ken and Mary their family was their joy and purpose. Ken is survived by his three sons: Tim Parzych of Coventry, CT with his wife Jennifer and their daughters Lindsay and Sarah, Kevin Parzych of Salt Lake City, UT with his wife Brigette and their sons Andy and Ben, and Dan Parzych of Milton, GA with his wife Meredith Trotta and their children Grace, Lily and George. Ken is also survived by his sister and her husband, Sue and Hugh Scott of Southampton, MA and his sister-in-law, Joan Petcen of Daytona, FL.
Relatives and friends are welcome to join the family from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 at the Coventry-Pietras Funeral Home, 2665 Boston Tpke. (Rte. 44) Coventry, CT 06238. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at St Bartholomew Parish, 45 Ludlow Rd, Manchester, CT 06040. Burial will follow at Storrs Cemetery in Storrs. For online condolences please visit: www.pietrasfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made to the Marians of the Immaculate Conception, Eden Hill, Stockbridge, MA 01263 or that you perform a random act of kindness and think of Ken.

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

Published by Hartford Courant on May 13, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Kenneth PARZYCH

Sponsored by Cornwall Drive neighbors.

52 Entries

Paul Perla

October 22, 2020

I have so many MANY treasured memories with this beautiful family, from early childhood visits to see Aunt Muffy and Uncle Stevie in Easthampton near the farm; then so many Easter Sundays with all Sue and Hugh, Mary and Ken and the boys!!! It is heartbreaking to me that somehow time and distance pulled us all apart and then the long finger of death comes to call and has taken so many beloved ones. I am not sure if you will even see this, but be assured that you have all always remained in my heart and not one Easter has gone by where I have not missed the gatherings in Coventry. I have often thought of you all--the boys, I always wondered how life treated you as you grew older and now I am saddened to see the passing of Kenny. I fondly recall the the camping trip in 1976 in Wells, Maine (it was and remains the only time I ever slept in a tent) and it is impossible not to recognize the great yet gentle fatherly nature of this great man; Mary; there are no words. I am mostly sorry that time slipped away so relentlessly and deeply regret that somehow we lost contact. Just an fyi: I still can't understand why a+b=c and I did learn to play Schubert's Ave Maria on the piano.

My deepest condolences to you all on this great loss but I am confident he rests in peace with Jaju Steve and Muffy, with "Aunt" Velma (my grandmother) my mom "Chrissie" and Dad Henry. My sincerest (VERY) belated condolences to you all. All Good Wishes,

Paul Perla

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May his soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

Paul Perla

October 22, 2020

Marc LeBlond

September 7, 2017

Although this was several years ago, I only found out today that Dr. Parzych had passed away. I absolutely love learning Econ from Dr. Parzych. His stories and enthusiasm for life were infectious and unforgettable. He had a tremendous impact on me and I'll miss him.

Dan Parzych

May 11, 2017

It is so nice to return to this page and see people still commenting on Dad - now after 4 years. He left an indelible mark and me and my family and it is nice to see he touched so many others. If it is possible, he is definitely eating a whoopie pie today! - Dan Parzych

Kim Carberry

December 17, 2014

I have a son who is now collage age and was wondering if Dr. Parzych was still teaching at Eastern. I took 2 of his classes in 1988 and never forgot him. I am shocked to learn of his passing. He is truly an angel in heaven. I am sorry for your loss.

October 17, 2014

Kens mother was my godmother. I will carry him in my thoughts.
Bill G

Jen Y

June 26, 2014

Not a day goes by that I'm not thinking of the late Dr. Parzych. He was my professor at eastern. I took his classes just because he was teaching them.

He always encouraged us to do well. Always do your best work. And enjoy whoppie pies.

I still ask advice from him from time to time. And I know he is helping me along the way. He was a grandfather figure to all of us at eastern.

His passion and love was by far the best I ever seen in a professor.

I hope someday I can be as passionate in my work as he was. I still have his book I never got rid of it. Love it it's a treasure of mine.

Prayers are always sent to his kids and grandchildren! He talked about all of you so much. I still want to hear the stories he had with his grandchildren. Such has his granddaughter schooled him and sometimes he failed in this school. He always had a loving smile as he spoke of his family. Thought you guys would like to know this!!

Thank you for sharing your father/husband/grandfather with us Eastern's or what he called it Willi State.

May The Lord be with you.

June 3, 2014

Dan, I was just thinking about your Dad this morning. I admired him for many reasons and so enjoyed every interaction with him. He brought the greatest speakers to Eastern as part of the Chase Program. I so looked forward to talks and the luncheon that followed. Ken was always such a gracious host.

Dan Parzych

June 1, 2014

Thanks for your comments everyone! It has been a year now and I still stop by this page often to read people's comments. Dad would be so pleased to know he had a positive influence on so many of his friends, colleagues and students.

It is great to know he won't be forgotten by you all. I know I'll be thinking about him every day.

Ruth Voboril

January 25, 2014

I had just one class with Dr. Parzych, back in the early '90s but I could scarcely forget it. The product he used in illustrating a point in economics was always Parzych's Polish Rye Bread. His passion for his subject was palpable. In his words, it was GREAT STUFF! Thinking back, none of what I've read here surprises me. He always struck me as a genuinely lovely man.

Paul

December 13, 2013

I am very saddened to hear about Dr. Parzych. He was my absolute favorite professor! You can tell he loved what he did! He had such a passion for teaching and would always talk about how important his family was. He was truly one of a kind!

Lindon Fairweather, Ph.D.

October 3, 2013

I'm saddened by Dr. Parzych's passing. Dr. Parzych was my mentor (in the classroom and in the gym); he was most influential in my decision to undertake graduate studies. I loved this man as I loved my own father. I will always remember you, Dr. Parzych. You will be missed.

Katalin Eibel-Spanyi

May 24, 2013

Ken was a wonderful man, mentor and colleague. A great man! I am saddened by his passing away. He will never be forgotten and always be missed.
With deepest sympathy,

May 21, 2013

Ken was such a gracious and kind colleague. Whenever our paths would meet, his smile and cordial words of greeting would uplift my spirits.
We will miss him.
My condolences to his wife and family.

Sincerely,

Hope K. Fitz
Professor of Philosophy

Joe

May 21, 2013

Dr. Parzych was a great professor, and more importantly a great man. I took a few classes with him and he was without a doubt my favorite professor I had. He sincerely cared about all his students and gave us a chance to go do well. I loved his stories about his family. I will always remember him.

Susan Wright

May 20, 2013

I was saddened to learn of Ken's passing. My husband Steve was one of the first Economics students of Ken's at ECSU. Ken helped him with an internship at the DEP. He was an awesome role model and teacher-he had a barbeque at his house for the economic student graduates! I'll miss him running by our house in Coventry-my husband Steve recently passed away so I'm speaking for us both. May your memmories comfort you at this sad time.
Sue Wright, Coventry

May 20, 2013

A great man! My heartfelt sympathy.
Karen Karas

1985 Madame Tussaud's wax museum in London. Coincidentally, years later Ken was invested by Pope John Paul II into the order of St Gregory.

Dave Burrell Grady

May 19, 2013

Ken Parzych was the most beatific man I've ever met, filled with happiness and grace. Every time you saw him, he'd ask after your family in a tone that conveyed sincere inquiry and deep care about the answer. Sure, Ken had a rail-hard streak as brought out in a fiery intervention when my angry brother chased me into his yard: "Don't you test an ex-Marine, young man!" But when we played wiffle ball or touch football in his yard, he'd always giggle, chiding his opponents as "hippy dippy cream puffs" as he helped the underdog win. And if you needed guidance or help in the world, Ken Parzych was always there. His Catholic faith and Polish pride were unshakeable, and his love for community and children (natural and adopted) was ferocious. I'll remember him as an incredible role model, father figure, and taskmaster. A hardcore, loving cream puff.

Veronica Samuels-Rhoden

May 17, 2013

Our sincere condolences to the Parzych family. His lively personality will sorely be missed by all who knew him especially the School of Continuing Education (Jamaican Cohort). He has touched so many lives and inspired me and many others.

Angelo Gesmundo

May 16, 2013

Met Ken (Dr. and Mrs. Parzych) as a Band director at the Capt. Nathan Hale School. All of their children were involved in the instrumental music program...Tim, Kevin and Danny. What a wonderful family...always supportive, concerned...and most helpful. Not to mention the wonderful sense of humor that each Parzych family member seemed to possess. Carol and I would like to extend our condolences and rest assured our prayers and thoughts go with the Parzych family at this time. God Bless all of you...especially at this difficult moment! Angelo and Carol Gesmundo

Tim Riordan

May 14, 2013

I served with Ken on the UCONN Alumni Association Board of Directors when he was President. He was always calm and in good humor and a pleasure to be around no matter what the problems of the day were. I and all his friends at UCONN will miss him.

Jon & Allyson Hand

May 14, 2013

My sincere condolences to the Parzych family. His lively personality will sorely be missed by all who knew him.

Carol Williams

May 14, 2013

I was terribly saddened to learn of Ken's sudden passing. I have so many fond memories of Ken who was a huge supporter of the School of Continuing Education here at Eastern. Ken was an amazing teacher and an amazing human being. He touched so many lives and inspired me and many others. I will always remember the Chase Luncheons and Ken's gracious hosting of those events. If you participated, you will know why this passage reminds me of Ken: Jesus, in one of his parables, teaches that "When you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place so that when your host comes, he may say to you, friend, move up higher. Then you will be honored in the presence of all who sit at table with you. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted." Luke 14:10-11 (NRSV)

Jill Trotta Calloway

May 14, 2013

Kevin and Family,
May the love of those around you and the wonderful memories of your father help you through the days ahead. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Lisa Cicia

May 14, 2013

I failed his class twice and he was STILL my favorite professor. What an amazing, energetic, brilliant, hysterical and loved man. Thank you Dr. Parzych, for your support, your guidance, all the laughs, and for introducing me to the "whoopie pie". May you rest in peace.

Larry Anderson

May 14, 2013

My deepest sympathies to the Parzych family, especially to my former colleagues and friends,Tim and Mary. No one could work a room like Mr. Parzych!! He will be greatly missed!

Maura Piscopink (Danehy)

May 14, 2013

With fond memories I will remember Mr. Parzych. My heart goes out to his family.

David Yeo

May 13, 2013

I join with all of Ken's colleagues in always recognizing his humility, graciousness and spiritual focus which were intertwined in his relationships with students, faculty and community causes. Ken was a special servant within the campus and his family. We all will greatly miss him and will always remember him.

Paul Mariano

May 13, 2013

My deepest sympathy to all of Ken's family and friends. I have great memories of working with Ken on the UCONN Alumni board.Ken was always ready to step to the plate and do what needed to be done. Truly one of the most sincere, honest hard working individuals I have had the honor to call a friend. I received this email today in Montreaux, Switzerland and only wish I could have delivered my condolences in person.

Thayne Hutchins

May 13, 2013

So sorry for your loss. Dr. Parzych was the reason I switched from accounting to Econ as my major. He was a great teacher and an even better man. Even though I haven't seen him in awhile I think of him often. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.

Carolyn and Ludi Berzins

May 13, 2013

Ludi and I were both very fond of Ken. I enjoyed working with him in the David Chase Foundation and his tutoring when I was taking an economics course at ECSU. We hadn't seen Ken and his family for several years now especially since we moved from Coventry to Boothbay, ME. We will miss him nonetheless and will pray for him and his family.
Carolyn Berzins

May 13, 2013

So shocked and saddened by the news just now! We are so sorry! Our deepest condolences to Mary and your family! We loved his contagious smile! May the memory of this great man be your comfort!
With love,
Qimin, Shell and Ethan

Kristen Sixbey

May 13, 2013

I am truly sorry to learn of Dr. Parzych's passing. He was a mentor to my husband and instrumental in encouraging him to pursue an Economics degree - to become "a king of Willi Hill." He will be missed. My deepest condolences to his family.

May 13, 2013

I am so saddened to read this news. Since I grew up in Coventry, I remember Ken & Mary, but especially recall with fondness passing him & Mary jogging on the weekend when I'd visit Coventry to run with my dad. Without fail, he always greeted us each week with a giant, warm smile & a wave. They became a great part of our marathon training routine & always made us laugh (no matter how miserable the run was!) You don't meet many people as great as Ken... A beautiful obituary & such lovely memories shared by everyone. My sincere condolences, Erica Pagliuco

May 13, 2013

It was my very good fortunate to get to know Ken while I worked at Eastern. I admired his intellect and his character. He impacted so many lives. Take comfort to know he has been welcomed home in Heaven with his Lord.

Andrew Minikowski

May 13, 2013

Dr. Parzych was one of the most magnificent professors that I ever had the pleasure of taking a class with. He was a gentleman who brought joy into the hearts of his students and fostered a profound interest in his subject. A great man whose light will linger in this world with those who knew him. My prayers and condolences go out to his family and relations.

May 13, 2013

A beautiful tribute to your wonderful husband, father, grandfather,and educator. He was all that you described ,a remarkable man . You have a blessed family, with so many memories of his generous love to all. Polly Diana, Julie , Matt

Shelly Gimenez

May 13, 2013

My sincerest condolences. Ken was a lovely man and a wonderful colleague. A very gentle soul. I am so sorry his retirement was abruptly cut so short. He really looked forward to being with his wonderful family. He will be missed by everyone who knows him.

Richard Wells

May 13, 2013

I knew Ken as "Dr. Parzych" while a student at ESCU in the mid-late 70s. He was not only an incredible Professor of Economics, but possessed boundless enthusiasm and energy. Ken had complete mastery of the material and delivered each lesson in such a way as to completely captivate a classroom. All one had to do was show interest and he would reciprocate tenfold. Dr. Parzych once invited me to go running with him. We ran about 3 miles together. He got his workout in and I got a priceless amount of advice and encouragement that day. Ken would later proof-read my first resume and cover letter AND personally call my future employer! A few years ago, I had an opportunity to visit the ECSU campus and with the help of Nancy Tinker, found Ken in his office. I will always cherish that memory. He was the same, enthusiastic, optimistic, selfless, kind-hearted Dr. Parzych that I remembered from my student days. Ken Parzych will be truly missed by all that knew him.
In Loving Memory,
Richard Wells
ECSU Class of 1980

Craig & Lourdes Ardel

May 13, 2013

A great man, wonderful neighbor and absolutely my favorite proffessor anywhere. Always would stop and ask about Dad on his way by. A real shock to both Lourdes and I. Our hearts and prayers are with you Mary and all ...

Carmen Cid

May 13, 2013

Dear Mary: I am glad I got to see you both at Frank Trainor's funeral -- so sad that Ken had to leave us so soon -- you are in our prayers.

Sister Katherine McKenna

May 13, 2013

Twenty-six years ago I was welcomed into the Parzych Family by Mary and Ken.I was Pastoral Associate in their parish and they were members of the R.C.I.A.team. This was one of many leadership positions they held in the diocese and parish.What a dynamic team they were and continued to be until Ken's illness.What a loss Ken's death is for all of us who benefited by his wisdom.

May 13, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Jaju. He always brought a smile to everyones face. He will be greatly missed. Love, Carolyn, Kelly, and beth from Coventry kids

Dave Loftus

May 13, 2013

Aw, Mary. It's sad news indeed. You and your family are in our daily prayers.
Margaret and Dave Loftus,

May 13, 2013

My condolences to Ken Parzych's family. I enjoyed working with Mary as an art student. May you rest in peace.
Lula Mae Blocton

William Newell

May 13, 2013

Ken was a kind and a good man. I think he was holy.
William L. Newell

Rita Malenczyk

May 13, 2013

I'm so sorry to hear of Ken's death. He was a wonderful man and will always be remembered by those of us who knew him at Eastern.

May 13, 2013

We will miss Ken very much at ECSU. Ken was always such a vibrant presence and lifted everyone he came in contact with. My prayers go to his loved ones and family.

Jeff Schaller

May 13, 2013

Professor Parzych was a kind and compassionate man. May God comfort his wife, his children and loved ones in their grief, and may his soul rest in peace.

Lyle Yorks

May 13, 2013

Ken Parzych was a major positive influence in the evolution and development of ECSU and the broader community. He was a person of high integrity holding strong personal values. A great teacher and leader. Words cannot fully describe the person he was. Ken Parzych had a major impact on my life and career. My thoughts today are with his family.
Lyle Yorks

Dr. Russell Sampson

May 13, 2013

Such a great man. Such a great life. Such a great loss. We'll all miss him.

Kathy Link

May 13, 2013

I had Dr. Parzych as my Economics professor at ECSU 30 years ago. I always remember what a brilliant, kind, and oh-so-humorous man he is. My thoughts and prayers are with him and all of his loved ones.

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