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Stephen Kachmar Obituary
Stephen Kachmar Jr., 59, of North Whitehall Twp., passed away June 19, 2009 at home. He was married to Kathryn F. (Smith) Kachmar. Born in Northampton, he was the son of the late Stepan and Maria (Jacila) Kachmar. Stephen was a fourth grade teacher at the Parkway Manor Elementary School for 35 years. Also, he was a licensed barber. He received his bachelors from Kutztown University and received his M.E., from Lehigh University Bethlehem. He was an active member and officer of the Parkland School District Teachers Association and a member of St. Nicholas Home Association, Northampton. He was a member of St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church, Northampton. Survivors: Wife; son, Dr. Steven P. Kachmar and his wife, Keri of Whitehall. He was a devoted loving father and best friend to his son. Services: 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Robert A. Hauke Funeral Home, 327 Chestnut St., Coplay followed by a Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. Tuesday in the church. Call 8:30-9:30 a.m. Tuesday in the funeral home. Contributions: In lieu of flowers to the church c/o the funeral home, 18037.
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Memories and Condolences
for Stephen Kachmar
Sponsored by Former Students of Mr. Kachmar.
August 27, 2017
Mr. Kachmar was a great elementary teacher and I will forever remember him. He is the reason I am now majoring in elementary education. Thank you for being an awesome teacher Mr. Kachmar.
April 26, 2011
I thought of Mr.Kachmar today and thought about how well he taught not only me but everybody. I would have written before but i still did not accept the fact that he is still not with us. I was just looking at my fifth grade yearbook today and i saw what Mr.Kachmar wrote which was "I wish you the best in middle school. Always keep your marvelous personality. You rule!" Mr.Kachmar will be greatly missed!
Jonathan Butz
August 4, 2010
Mr. Kachmar was the best teacher I had in the Parkland School District. He taught us the metric system, how to give speeches in front of our classmates and how to make pysanky easter eggs.
He was a gifted and rare educator, and the pages of comments here show so clearly what an important part of our lives he was. He tackled every subject with the same zeal, so much so that I have many more specific memories of his class than of any other, even in high school.
The metric system was his own contribution because he believed it important that we understood and used it, and he taught the prefixes with a song, set to a tune. Kilo, hecta, deca, meter, liter, gram, deci, centi, mili. And it would repeat forever.
My father, brother (whom he also taught) and I saw him five years ago at Parkway Manor after voting. We talked for a few minutes, and he asked us if we remembered the metric song. We sang it for him, and he smiled, putting his hand over his heart.
I farted once in his class and was quite embarrassed. He ran to the window, opened it and took a huge gulp of air from outside, which made us all laugh. He then proceeded to explain that we all did that, “and you sit there thinking to yourselves: ‘nobody heard me’” He sang the last bit.
Farewell, Mr. Kachmar.
stephen kachmar jr.
March 23, 2010
He was my grandfather
Hayley Penso
March 7, 2010
Mr. Kachmar was my 4th grade teacher I'm an 8th grader now and I still remember all the fun things we did in class like Ukranian Eggs. I had him at Parkway Manor. I miss him.....
Barbara Tantaros
July 31, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family, Three of my four children had the PRIVILEDGE of having Mr. Kachmar as their teacher. No other teacher had such a positive effect on their lives as he did. When I look back I can truly say he inspired the best in each of them. He treated the children with respect and had high expectations for them and because of that they WANTED to do their best. His love of teaching and of the children came through all that he did.
Our fourth child would probably have had Mr. K. as his teacher if he had not needed Special Ed. But he did see Mr Kachmar regularly for his haircuts. Dan was a very challenging customer, not the easiest child to have his hair cut as most autistic children are. Mr Kachmar used his exceptional talents as a barber to give him the nicest haircut in spite of Dan's sensory challenges. Steve was patient, careful and persistent And I attribute all of these in addition to Mr. Kachmar's gentle ways as one of the de-sensitizing factors that contributed to the pleasant haircuts Dan can enjoy today Steve was a very special man!
Our sincerest sympathies go to his entire family. God comfort you all.
Thea Menzies
July 31, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family, Me and my two other siblings had the pleasure of having Mr. Kachmar as our 4th grade teacher when he taught at Cetronia. I have to say that he is the one teacher throughout my school years that really stands out in my memory. He truly cared for each and every child that passed through his classroom. He had a gentle way about him that made all of the children love him and want to learn from him. It's so sad to see a such an excellent teacher leave us. Our deepest sympathy to you and your entire family during this very rough time. Sincerely, Thea Tantaros Menzies
Keith Ostfeld
July 6, 2009
i had Mr. Kachmar in 4th grade at parkway manor school almost 20 years ago...great teacher
my sympathies to his family.
Ellen Lantz Navitsky
July 2, 2009
I was very sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Kachmar. I was one of his 4th grade students at Cetronia (1979). We worked hard, and played hard as noted by some of the entries already written (Ukrainian Easter eggs and arm wrestling contest (girl champion -- woo!)). I also remember the "check book auction" where we earned credits for turned in assignments, and debits for missed ones or bad behavior; then were able to bid on toys and other various goodies at the auction. We had to keep track of our entries, and write the check correctly. What a motivation to complete homework, and awesome practical lesson for the future! There was also the annual "haunted house" we constructed out of cardboard and trash bags for the other classes to enjoy. After all these years I still remember the Terry Bradshaw mannequin head and the flashing strobe light -- freaky! And, things never got stale with the neat desk configurations he came up with on a regular basis. I loved everything about Mr. Kachmar, and was very lucky to have been his student.
Douglas Petrakovich
July 1, 2009
I had Mr Kachmar way way back at cetronia school. He was truely a great great teacher!!! Always smiled and had a very positive outlook. Its hard to remember alot of the good things from back that far, but I do remember that year when I had him was the year I got the best grades I ever had (lol).
I also remember my mother taking me to the trexlertown mall for him to cut my hair. Even outside of the classroom he would make me laugh. My uncle went to him when he was cutting hair at the barber shop by the skating rink on RT100, and Mr kachmar would ask about me and how I was. I was shocked that he still remembered me.
After reading what everyone has written, Im glad to see that he still touched so many hearts. Its good to know he stayed the same after all these years later. He will be missed by all.
June 30, 2009
Kachmar Family...
I had the pleasure of working with Steve at Parkway Manor for the past 13 years. I will miss our conversations, his smiling face and his warm hello each time I passed him in the hall. Anyone who had the pleasure of knowing Steve knew he loved teaching and knew he loved his family. I will be praying for you during this difficult time. May God comfort you and give you peace.
Love, Susie Arndt
June 30, 2009
Steven and Keri,
Your dad was the best there ever was! He was so proud of the both of you! My family and I will miss him so much, he was my big brother! He was a great teacher, and a best friend! I know how much it hurts right now, I lost my dad wnen I was 32, but just remember, he will always be there in spirit for you. Your dad's smile and great appreciation for life will always be remembered.Our deepest sympathy,love and prayers goes out for the both of you,please keep in touch and may God bless.
Love, Fran Kidd and Family
Janvi Madhani
June 29, 2009
Mr. Kachmar
His name itself brings back so many 4th
grade memories. There are two types of teachers, one that just teaches for money and the other that teaches because they really care about the future of thier students. Mr Kachmar was the kind that cared and not only did he teach according to the curriculam but he also gave you life oriented lessons along with it. He was a person who took us into light of the day. He considered us all equal and never had any "Teacher's Pets". He always kept a positive outlook on things and made each one of us feel special. He always made my day by saying "Hi Sunshine". Today I am pained to hear that he is no longer with us but his spirit will live with us forever. And in the end I would like to express my sincere sympathy and may his soul live on forever.
June 28, 2009
To the Kachmar Family,
I am so sorry about the passing of
Steve. He was a wonderful colleague at Parkway Manor. Many times I would see him in the faculty room copying papers and we would always have such pleasant conversations about school, his son, or Westend Racquet Club(his workouts and my tennis matches). He will be missed by so many people!
Christine Beck Allentown PA
James Joseph
June 28, 2009
My deepest sympathies for the loss of a good man and one of my favorite teachers of my school career. Despite being a quirky, kind of strange man, he immediately made all the small scared new 4th graders in 2001 feel at ease. I remember well his "You know, of of those deals," his funny mis-pronouncing of Respiratory system, and his sporadic singing of "Bird bird bird, bird is a word." His metric song even helped me through High School science classes. Every once in a while, God brings into the lives of schoolchildren a teacher and a dear friend who touches their lives the way no other adult can. Mr. Kachmar was that for me. Not only did I grow to like him for his ever cheerful attitude and his deep concern for all of us, but I also grew, after leaving his class, to respect deeply his obvious talent for teaching and for getting his students to learn. Once again, my deepest sorrow for his loss. I assure you that the memory of him will live on in my life, every time I deal with metric or hear that "Bird Bird Bird" song.
God bless you all, and I am sure he is in heaven, smiling on us.
You know, one of those deals.
Mary Frances Salines
June 27, 2009
We would like to extend our deepest heartfelt sympathy on your recent loss. Mr. Kachmar was a genuine, warm and caring man who will be dearly missed. We're blessed that he touched our lives.
The Salines Family
Len, Mary Frances, Lenny and Andrew
Roshni Patel
June 27, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was a very nice teacher. Everybody used to crack up when he did funny accents. The best part was when
he squirted everyone that did dunking for apples with a hose and everybody got soaked. I also liked when he taught us the metric song.
When it was my first day at Parkway Manor I was scared because I never had a boy teacher. On the first day of school after everybody was done unpacking we started reading then all of the sudden Mr. Kachmar started speaking in different accents and started chasing people around the room. That was the best part. He was the best teacher I ever had.
Sydney Moyer
June 26, 2009
When I look back on my elementary school days, one of the foremost memories in my mind was Mr. Kachmar's fourth grade class. He was one of my favorite teachers and always knew how to light up a classroom with both fun and knowledge. He always challenged us, but our hard work paid off and most definitely prepared me for learning later in life. He was a fun and caring guy. I will always remember him teaching us how to make Ukranian Easter eggs and having bobbing for apples contests in the courtyard. I hope that other teachers can follow his legacy and pick up where he left off in this world.
Cara Moyer
June 26, 2009
My fourth grade teacher, Mr. Kachmar, was an extraordinary teacher and person. I am very sorry for the lost of his family and friends. He impacted my life very much, and taught me things that no other person could. Another thing I enjoyed about him was that he didn’t treat us like little kids. He talked to us as if we were his friend not just any old student. He treated us like one of a kind and trusted us as much as we trusted him. Now those days are in the past, but the memories are in the present. I still and will always think of him when doing metric, eating jell-o, doing book reports, or dying Easter eggs. He went above and beyond to make that year a memorable and fantastic year for us and I am very thankful for that. Although I am very sorry for his death I am comforted by the fact that he died knowing how much he helped change peoples’ lives, including mine. With this message I also send my deepest sorrow to the family and my hope that they know what a great life Mr. Kachmar had.
Cara Moyer
June 26, 2009
My fourth grade teacher, Mr. Kachmar, was an extraordinary teacher and person. I am very sorry for the lost of his family and friends. He impacted my life very much, and taught me things that no other person could. Another thing I enjoyed about him was that he didn’t treat us like little kids. He talked to us as if we were his friend not just any old student. He treated us like one of a kind and trusted us as much as we trusted him. Now those days are in the past, but the memories are in the present. I still and will always think of him when doing metric, eating jell-o, doing book reports, or dying Easter eggs. He went above and beyond to make that year a memorable and fantastic year for us and I am very thankful for that. Although I am very sorry for his death I am comforted by the fact that he died knowing how much he helped change peoples’ lives, including mine. With this message I also send my deepest sorrow to the family and my hope that they know what a great life Mr. Kachmar had.
Steven Rosen
June 25, 2009
Just last week I was looking at a book that Mr. Kachmar gave me about how to succeed one day at a time. I honestly believe that Mr. Kachmar enjoyed every day with his students and I know that his students truly enjoyed his class. He made it evident that he took an interest in his students' lives outside of the classroom and took teaching as more than just his job. He was one of my favorite teachers and I didn't realize how much I had learned from him at such a young age until I was older. The two lessons he most often stressed were to value your education and to stay close to your family; two lessons by which I know he personally lived. He will be missed.
Marisa Cigliano
June 25, 2009
Mr. Steven Kachmar was a very happy and loving teacher. He always made me and my class smile. he was my favorite teacher and i will never forget him for all things he taught me. he will be missed.
Tina Brown
June 25, 2009
I was shocked upon hearing about the death of Mr. Kachmar. He was my son's 4th grade teacher and one of his favorite's. My husband was killed in a motorcycle accident the year Chad was in his class and Mr. Kachmar helped him so much during what was a difficult and trying time in our lives. There are many things that our family will remember about Mr. Kachmar such as his metric song and his tradition of the Ukranian Easter Eggs which we still display in our curio cabinet. He was loving and caring to all who met him and our hearts and prayers are with his family at this time.
Mom and Dad Jeanes
June 25, 2009
Steve and Keri,
This poem reminded me of the great devotion and love your Dad felt for you. Our love and thoughts are with you.
God took the strength of a mountain,
The majesty of a tree,
The warmth of a summer sun,
The calm of a quiet sea,
The generous soul of nature,
The comforting arm of night,
The wisdom of the ages,
The power of the eagle's flight,
The joy of a morning in spring,
The faith of a mustard seed,
The patience of eternity,
The depth of a family need,
Then God combined these qualities,
When there was nothing more to add,
He knew His masterpiece was complete,
And so,
He called it ... Dad
Author unknown
Madison Fredrick
June 25, 2009
Mr.Kachmar at parkway manor you worked there for 35yrs! You were blessed from all the teachers,staff,and most of all the stundents you knew. We will all miss you because we were a great teacher with awesome ideas to have fun with your students. Mr.Kachmar god bless you and your family. We'll think about and miss most of all.
Gretchen Klinedinst Furst
June 25, 2009
Mr. Kachmar:
Always smiling, genuinely in love with teaching, happy to be there, ready with candy on Fridays, artistic and patient enough to teach fifth graders at Cetronia how to make Ukranian eggs. I only had him for Math but years later would see him when I took my daughter to visit my mom's classroom at Parkway Manor. He always remembered me and his smile never faded. As a fellow teacher, I admire how loved he was by students, parents and colleagues alike. He was truly an example to all who knew him. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Ben Youngerman
June 25, 2009
It was in Mr. Kachmar's class where I vividly remember standing up for the first time to announce my dream of becoming a sports broadcaster. I pretended to broadcast a Philadelphia Flyers game. "Lindros passes to LeClair, over to Renberg, back to Lindros...he shoots and scores!"
12 years later, I just graduated from the top communications school in the country and have my first job in professional baseball. It was Mr. Kachmar's initial encouragement and positive spirit that allowed me to reach this point.
When asked to name your favorite teacher from youth, Mr. Kachmar is the quick, easy, and only choice.
The Ukranian eggs, bobbing for apples, and candy are lasting memories from over a decade ago. And the metric song is forever stuck in everyone's head.
God bless Mr. Kachmar for everything he helped me and fellow classmates accomplish in life. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Leslie Nichols
June 24, 2009
Mr. Kachmar had to be my favorite teacher in my 6 years! I had him in fourth grade in 2007-2008. He had touched so many lives and then he loses his life, which was not right. I and(hundreds of other people) wish there was a way we could have helped him! He always had a bright cheerful smile on and never let it disappear or dim.
I loved when he taught the "Metric Song" to us and the dance. He made us walk around the school singing and dancing it to everyone! I also loved doing apple dunking, especially seeing his HUGE smile!
He always inspired us to do things that no one would think of, especially doing great things in the future! It is such a tragic loss of Mr. Kachmar and he will be greatly missed! He touched many people and many hearts and no one could be a better man, or a better person. I had a special place for him in my heart and no one will fill it again. I will miss him terribly and I know that heaven will be a good place for him! I just can't stop thinking how much I will miss him! I sure do love you, Mr. Kachmar and will never forget you!!! My greatest sorrows to the Kachmar family!
Tanvi D.
June 24, 2009
My fourth grade year with Mr. Kachmar was the one I remember the most at Parkway Manor. Even though I enjoyed learning the metric song and doing the several activities at the end of the year such as bobbing for apples, arm wrestling and candy on Fridays! But, I also remember the important things about him like how every time he saw you in the hall he asked you about how you were and if you used the metric song(which I can proudly say I always answered yes). Even though I have moved to Washington, I still can remember him and I hope everyone who knew him owes him a thank you for everything he has done for this world. But I personally would like to say, Thank you for being a great teacher and person and thank you for making a change in my life.
Jackie Santo
June 24, 2009
Mr.Kachmar was and will always be my favorite teacher. I loved seeing his smiling face everytime I walked into the room. He always made me laugh. I loved doing the Ukranian Easter eggs,arm wrestling, jello eating contest, and dunking for apples.I will miss him.
F Fazel
June 24, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was and will remain to be my favorite teacher throughout my education. I am very sad to hear of this loss to the educating community. He was a brilliant teacher and an even better human being. He always had a smile on his face and never failed to make everyone around him smile. I remember his lessons greatly in his fourth grade class at Parkway Manor, and will never forget that class. Mr. Kachmar inspired us to do our best in his class, and always told us to do the same through the future. Today, I am a better student because of the lessons I learned almost 7 years ago, in his class. My condolences to his family. He was a wonderful man, and will be greatly missed. May the Kachmar family be granted comfort and patience to endure this loss.
Rich Myerson
June 24, 2009
I waled into Kings Feathers many years ago and was lucky enough to get a seat in Steves chair. we started a conversation about kids and stuff, I think Steven was in high school at the time. When my son entered highschool hge was not motivated, Steve told me about his son who now in college and how he too was not motivated until he reached college. Steve spoke about Steven all the way through college,and his masters and docuarate work at Pitt. He was so proud of you Steven and i am sure you are proud of him Your father was a great guy, always had a smile on his face and loved telling me about his kids in 4th grade. May our Father in heaven ease your pain, your dad is with Him, still with that smile on his face.I will miss our talks at the barber shop
Heather Slatoff
June 24, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the Kachmar family. I was blessed to have Mr. Kachmar as my fifth grade teacher at Cetronia Elementary School thirty years ago. He was a wonderful teacher and a kind-hearted man. I was lucky enough to talk to him last year while visiting the Allentown Area and thank him for the influence his teaching had on my life. I left his fifth grade classroom and continued with a successful education. Today I am a teacher and aspire to have the energy and love of teaching that Mr. Kachmar demonstrated in his classroom. He was an inspiration to me and countless others he has taught.
Z Fazel
June 24, 2009
Mr.Kachmar had taught both of my girls in Parkway Manor. He was a wonderful teacher and a great human beings. Our heartiest condolences to his family
Laura Quaglio
June 24, 2009
My daughter was lucky enough to have Mr. Kachmar for her first teacher at Parkway Manor after we moved here. He welcomed her warmly and made her feel right at home. He nicknamed her "Sunshine" and still called her that when she was in 6th grade and came back to visit. She still has her Ukranian egg displayed proudly in her room.
Angela had a wonderful, enlightening, challenging, and fun-filled year with him. I loved coming in to help out whenever I could--he was such a wonderful person to be around. Last year when my daughter was in middle school, she told me that the kids who'd had Mr. Kachmar were teaching the Metric Song to the kids from other schools. When I told him, he just smiled and laughed. I think he was really pleased by the thought.
Mr. Kachmar has touched more lives that we will ever really know. We can all keep his spirit alive by sharing what he has taught us, whether it be about metrics or how to brighten someone's day with a smile in the hallway.
Mike Ott
June 24, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the family and all whose lives have been touched by this great man. I'm fortunate to have had him as a 5th grade teacher back at Cetronia and then as a barber when he cut hair at the Trexlertown Mall.
It's always so sad when good wholesome people leave this Earth too soon. Always take comfort in the fact that Mr. K made the most of his time here, touched so many lives, and made lasting positive impressions with those interactions. In that way, he will never be truly gone and will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.
May God comfort you in this time of sorrow and also help you rejoice in a life well lived.
Wendy Petraglia
June 24, 2009
"It takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them, but an entire life to forget them"...
Mr.Kachmar will be sadly missed but never forgotten !
My daughter Emily was very LUCKY to have Mr. Kachmar as her 4th grade teacher in 2007-08...he inspired her to be the best that she could be and she did not want to let him down !
Stephen-after meeting you and your wife today, I walked away KNOWING that you have the same character and spirit as your father !
AGAIN, thanks for sharing him with us all !
With deep sympathy-
Brielle Monegro
June 24, 2009
This is coming from a student who attended Parkway Manor. No, Mr. Kachmar was not my teacher. I do know a thing or 2 about him though. He was a great man who would have never deserved death. Funny, smart, outgoing, anything you could imagine in a wonderful person- or teacher. I feel sorry with everything. Parkway Manor will never be the same without the man. His students adored him as I hear from each. "Mr.Kachmar is awesome and the best!" With sympathy he is in our prayers. We will never forget his favorite song kilo,heca,deka,meter,liter gram,deci,centi,milli not i understand.
milli,centideci,gram,liter,meter,deka,heca,kilo now i really understand. I didn't have him but that song got me though 5th grade perfect! We will never say goodbye in our hearts Mr. Kachmar!
Richard Wang
June 23, 2009
I remember the day I stepped into 4th grade like it was yesterday. I walked into a well-lit classroom with desks, children, and a teacher. A teacher with a big smile. As I walked in, he greeted me, and showed me to my seat. I'm sure you can guess who that teacher is. And, in 5th grade, he was my helping hand's teacher. So, you can imagine, I have many fond memories for Mr. Kachmar. A jelly eating contest, apple bobbing, metric parade, and more. A great guy, he was. (Do I sound like Yoda?) Even though he is gone, and many are sad, it is comforting to know that life WILL GO ON. But, it never will be the same without Mr. Kachmar. Armed with a metric song and a huge smile, he can make anybody's day better. So, I want to show that I care about him by writing here. I also want others to do the same. Good luck Mr.Kachmar, in the afterlife. R.I.P.
-Richard Wang
A former student of Mr. Kachmar
June 23, 2009
With our deepest sympathy, we are sorry for your loss. Mr. Kachmar was our daughter's teacher this year and she adored him. He inspired her to be the best student she could be and always ecouraged her with kind words. We are grateful that she was able to meet him and learn from him but we are also sad that our youngest daughter or other students will not have the opportunity to have him as a teacher. We thank God for people like him who are angels in this world. Everyone who knew him, always had a great comment about him. We hope that by knowing how much he was appreciated by his students, friends and colleagues will bring confort to his family. Our daughter will always remember him as one of her favorite teachers and role models. As she put it one day, "There is always something new & fun to learn in Mr.Kachmar's class." She had the best school year yet and was able to become an even greater student.
Lorenza & Tony El-Kik
Karen Cottrell-Martz
June 23, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my 5th grade teacher back at Cetronia Elementary school in 1982. The biggest memory I have of him is when my great-uncle died that year. Mr. Kachmar took me out into the hallway and gave me a hug and told me that everything was going to be ok. If I was able to be with his family right now, I would do the same to each of you; give you a hug and tell you everything is going to be ok.
Joan Nederostek
June 23, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family
I just learned today of Steve's passing and wanted to extend my deepest sympathy to his family. I worked at Parkway Manor for 2 short years but during that time I would pass Steve in the hallway and he would always have a smile on his face and a friendly hello. Even though I didn't have the opportunity to get to know Steve well he will be remembered fondly. My prayers and sympathy are with all of his family.
Adrienne Nichols
June 23, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was by far my favorite teacher. He always had a smile on his face. He was my fourth grade teacher. My parents and I loved him so much, three years later we requested him for my little sister.
I use the things he taught me all the time. The metric song will always be with me. Along with all the things he taught me, we had lots of fun times bobbing for apples, jell-o eating contest, and making pysanky eggs.
My favorite memory of Mr. Kachmar was when I was in his class, my sister was in first grade. One day she was scared and her teacher allowed her to come down to talk to me. When she got to Mr. Kachmar's classroom, Mr. Kachmar took her over to his closet. He gave her a piece of candy and comforted her. It made her so happy and feel much better.
He was such a kind and loving man. I will never forget him and he will always be in my heart.
Lisa Marks
June 23, 2009
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Abby Morrison
June 23, 2009
He was such a great teacher and his presence in the community will be dearly missed. I have so many strong memories of having him as my 4th grade teacher and I would often pop in to say hi while working at the school. It is a true shame for him to go so young, I feel sad for all the future 4th graders he could have also positively affected. I don't know how Parkway Manor can ever refill those shoes, but I feel honored to have had the privilage of being one of his students.
Jeff Kehler
June 22, 2009
Every time I speak to anyone who went to Cetronia Elementary with me, I know Mr. K is sure to come up. It seems that he was everyone's favorite teacher.
His life was a gift to so many and in so many ways. I feel fortunate to have so many great memories of my fifth grade year in his class.
I know his memory will go on and on and he will be missed terribly. My deepest sympathy goes out to all who loved him.
Ben Zager
June 22, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my fouth grade teacher and one of my favorite. I have many memories of of him such as the metric song, the Jello eating contest, and bobbing for apples. He always made you laughand had a smile on his face. He was a great teacher and he will be missed.
Dianne Houck
June 22, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Steve was a dedicated teacher and good friend to everyone at Parkway Manor. I will always remember Steve with a smile on his face as he asked how things were going when we passed in the hall. He will be fondly remembered by his colleagues and students.
Steven & Keri Kachmar
June 22, 2009
To All Who Have and Continue to Post,
I can not express how truly touched my wife and I are by your loving words and memories.
As many know, my father always has been and forever will be my hero and best-friend. That said, he often spoke with me about his wonderful students, devoted parents, caring colleagues and loving friends. I find it important to let you know that he cherished the relationship he had with each of you.
Throughout the 31 years I knew this wonderful man he conveyed a very consistent message to me (most recently being a few days ago): "in life, everything matters." Your sincere words continue to remind me that he lived this on a daily basis.
Again, my wife and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
With love,
Steven & Keri Kachmar
Landon Annoni
June 22, 2009
Mr.Kachmar was a great teacher even though he wasn't my teacher he always said to me you have a sparkle in your eye boy. I will never forget you.
Donna Kingcaid
June 22, 2009
To the family of Mr. Kachmar -
Mr. Kachmar had my daughter in his class for 4th grade and though it was tough she will always enjoy the Ukranian Eggs and the Metric song for years to come. He was a terrific teacher and really showed how much he valued his students. He will truly be missed by all. God bless you and know you will be together someday.
Sincerely,
Susie, Michael and Donna Kingcaid
Jarryd Kainz
June 22, 2009
Mr.Kachmar was my 4th grade teacher last year and is my favorite from Parkway Manor. Everyday I walked into his classroom, was a day i will remember. He made learning fun in every way possible! I remember his metric song and getting candy on every Friday. He had the smartest ideas for projects and rewards such as apple bobbing, arm wrestling, and even a jello eating contest. I knew him outside of school as he was my barber and we always talked and joked around. God bless his soul,his friend always and forever, Jarryd Kainz
Mackenzie Kasza 4th grade class of '09
June 22, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family, I'm sorry for your loss. I think he was an awesome teacher and I have a lot of fun and great memories. Like the metric song and dance, Friday candy, parties, egg writing and especially his funny stories and jokes. He always made learning fun. Everyone who knew him will miss him so much.
Yuri Guanowsky
June 22, 2009
I was a student in Mr. Kachmar's fourth grade class this year. I am sorry that he passed away. Mr. Kachmar was my favorite teacher. I liked the jello eating contest and arm wrestling competition. I liked when Mr. Kachmar joked and talked in funny accents. I liked the candy he gave on Fridays and the way he made school fun. I will miss him a lot.
Yuri Guanowsky
May his memory be eternal . The Guanowsky Family
Jim Joseph
June 22, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Kachmar's family during this difficult time. He was a wonderful, caring and inspirational teacher. He valued each child and made them each feel special. He made learning fun and will surely be missed. There is a special place in heaven for him we are sure. God Bless,
Sincerely,
Jim, Debbie, James and Megan Joseph
June 22, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Kachmar's family during this difficult time. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor to his students. Each child was unique and special to him and he treated them all the same. He was energetic and made learning fun and always had candy on Fridays....there is a special place in heaven for him of that we are sure. He will be missed.
Sincerely,
Jim, Debbie, James and Megan Joseph
Anushka Madwesh
June 22, 2009
Dear family of Mr. Kachmar,
In 4th grade, I was blessed to be given, Mr. Kachmar as my teacher. Not only would he teacher, but he would teach in a way that you would always remember it. He taugh me the mertric song, which helped me, this year in middle school.
Rest In Peace
Samantha Gaffey
June 22, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my favorite teacher ever. I loved seeing his smiling face every time every time I walked into the classroom. I loved arm wrestling, bobbing for apples, and the jello eating contest. Fridays were my favorite, because he always gave us candy. He made learning everything so much fun. He will be missed at Parkway Manor.
Clay Wild
June 22, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my fourth grade teacher a few years back. He was a great man and will be missed dearly. I remember making Ukranian eggs in his class, bobbing for apples at the end of the year, and of course, the metric song, which I still use a lot! Overall, my entire 4th grade experience was excellent because of him, and my thoughts go out to his entire family during this sad time. He was a very nice, very kind man and I am sure he will be missed by everyone.
Thanks for everything Mr. Kachmar! You were a fantastic teacher!
Tyler Young
June 22, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my fourth grade teacher this year. He taught us alot and made school one of the best places to be. I will always remember the following:
Dunking for apples and him soaking me,
Jello Eating Contest, Easter Egg Writing, Candy every friday, arm wrestling, and most importantly his sense of humor. He will be missed.
Samantha Gaffey
June 22, 2009
Mr.Kachmar was my favorite teacher ever. I will always remember his great smile he had every morning I walked into his classroom. I loved arm wrestling a lot. I also enjoyed bobbing for apples and the jello eating contest. He made learning everything fun. Fridays were the best because he always gave us candy. He will be missed at Parkway Manor.
Carolyn Marsland
June 22, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family,
Know that your husband and father was a wonderful man. He touched and molded so many lives. He gave so many children such wonderful memories. His gifts of teaching and the art of Ukrainian Eggs will live long in the hearts of so many lives. Two of my girls had Mr. Kachmar at Parkway Manor, my third daughter was hoping to get him this fall. We have several of his eggs in the house that our girls made, they are now all the more special to us.
God Bless You.
Carolyn Marsland
Julie de Fretes
June 22, 2009
Mr Kachmar was my 4th grade teacher at Parkway Manor many years ago. Learing the metric system song, the auction we had from our point system, and making Ukranian eggs, will always remain in my memory. He was a wonderful man, and had a true passion for teaching. My sympathy and prayers are with you.
Deana Frederick
June 22, 2009
Dear Kachmar Family,
So very sad to read about your loss. Steve was such a soft spoken, sweet mannered gentleman and he will be dealy missed. He was one of our bi-weekly customers for many years and we always looked forward to seeing him.He will be dearly missed by us and others who were blessed to know him. Hold all your sweet memories close in heart it will help comfort you. God Bless such a sweet soul. Sincerely all the employees of Wachovia Bank at Cedar Crest Blvd.
Devon Marsland
June 22, 2009
Mr Kachmar was my favorite teacher when i went to Parkway Manor. He was my fourth grade teacher and Im always going to remember him and his crazy Metric System song. He made class so much fun, and he was such a nice man. I remember at the end of the year he would have a bobbing for apples, and an arm wrestling contest. He will definitely be missed by me and my older sister Kayla that had him also. I will miss him so much, and he was an all around amazing person.
Sincerely, Devon Marsland
M. Katie Wardenski
June 22, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was an inspiration as my fifth grade teacher at James W. Good in Cetronia. I have thought of him often, and will never forget him. (But I have to admit, this is the first time Ukranian eggs entered my mind). He was kind to us all, even my older brother. I still tell the story of balloons and penpals in 1976, and a time capsule buried behind the playground, ...
His spirit will comfort many for years.
Addie Wild
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was an amazing teacher! He made class so fun, and I learned a lot from him. He was super nice, smart, and funny. He was one of the best teachers I have ever had and he was a great person! I know he will be missed but I'm sure everyone will have at least one great memory to remember him by.
Josh Knafo
June 21, 2009
To the family of Mr. Kachmar,
Six years ago, I was fortunate enough to have Mr. Kachmar as my fourth grade teacher. Many of my fondest Parkway Manor memories were of Mr. Kachmar's class... making Ukranian eggs, bobbing for apples and singing and dancing to the metric song. He brought love, caring and compassion to every class and every student. He will be greatly missed by our family.
Josh Knafo & Family
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar, as he was known around our house, was an amazing teacher and human being. Just last week, my two children, now in 11th and 8th grades, were discussing their "all time favorite teachers." This was a regular routine for them, and as always, Mr. K was right up there in the top 3. They too talked about the egg decorating and Friday candy, plus his terrific sense of humor, as things they liked best. As a parent, I thought the world of Mr. Kachmar. What a gift to make school fun, and still a great learning experience! When my son had him in 4th grade, he insisted that he also had to get his hair cut by Mr. Kachmar, so off we went. Our family is deeply saddened for the Kachmar family, the Parkway Manor family, and all of the children who will come behind who will not have the amazing Kachmar learning experience. What a loss of such a wonderful human being. We will be thinking of all of you, and remembering Mr. Kachmar, for a long time to come.
Sincerely,
Susan Wild and the entire Wild family
Kristie Budihardjo
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was one of my favorite teachers. I loved his class, especially the special things he did, like the song he used to teach our class metric, the Ukrainian eggs during Easter, and the jelly contests and dunking for apples. He was a wonderful teacher and mentor and I am really sorry that he passed away.
Brian Beck
June 21, 2009
Steven, Scott called me today to inform me of your dad. I am so sorry and shocked that this happened. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Your Dad was a good person and I always had a great deal of respect for him.
With deepest regards,
Brian Beck
Alex Lees
June 21, 2009
I am sorry for your loss. Mr. Kachmar was my fourth grade and probably my favorite teacher. I remember and still use the metric song he taught his classes. Parkway Manor will be missing a large piece in september. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.
Lori McClure
June 21, 2009
Steve was a very dedicated teacher and a wonderful person to have as part of our staff at Parkway Manor. He always had a smile on his face and always stopped to ask how you were doing. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this difficult time.
Beth Scherman
June 21, 2009
I was shocked and in disbelief when I found out Mr. Kachmar passed away. He was my fourth grade teacher many years ago. He will always be remembered for not only passing along his love of education, but also his heritage. My highlight of fourth grade was staying after school to learn how to make psanky eggs. I still think of this today.
There will be an incredibly large missing piece of the Parkway Manor faculty in September. Mr. Kachmar will be truly missed.
Emily Petraglia
June 21, 2009
Oh Mr.Kachmar... he was one of the best teachers I have ever had! I remember 2 years ago, when I walked through the classroom door, the smile on his face. It had lit the room up with light and happiness. All the times he taught, he taught us as his friends. He gave candy to us EVERY Friday. I can't remember one time when he forgot. Mr. Kachmar had an awesome program where you made traditional Eukranian eggs. My favorite times with him will always be the jello eating contest and apple dunking. He was one of my favorite teachers the 6 years I was here at Parkway Manor. He will be missed greatly and him and those in his family will be in my prayers. :'(
Craig Cottrell
June 21, 2009
I am not sure I will ever remember all my Cetronia Elementary school teachers like I remember Mr. K. Even a bad day in his classroom was a good day. He will always be remembered as a man with a smile that would never fade and a Friday routine that I wish all teachers would have adopted. He will be sorely missed.
June 21, 2009
Steve and Keri,
My deepest sympathy goes out to both of you. There are no words that can make things better right now, but please take comfort in the fact that your father had the unique ability to positively impact so many lives. Please let me know if you guys need anything.
Love Tiffany
June 21, 2009
To the family of Mr. Kachmar,
My son was blessed to have a year with Mr. Kachmar at Parkway Manor. Of Will's 6 years at the school, his favorite was 4th grade. He loved learning to make Ukranian eggs, and making movies of oral presentations. I was hoping my daughter might have him next year but that wasn't God's plan. Mr. Kachmar was one of the best. He will be missed.
Kim Campbell
June 21, 2009
To the family of Mr. Kachmar,
My son was blessed to have a year with Mr. Kachmar at Parkway Manor. Of Will's 6 years at the school, his favorite was 4th grade. He loved learning to make Ukranian eggs, and making movies of oral presentations. I was hoping my daughter might have him next year but that wasn't God's plan. Mr. Kachmar was one of the best. He will be missed.
Meghan Thomas
June 21, 2009
Please accept my most heartfelt condolences for your loss. Steve was a wonderful teacher and colleague. When I joined the Parkway Manor family two years ago as a 4th grade teacher alongside Steve, I was immediately welcomed by him. He was very kind and compassionate about teaching. He will be greatly missed by all of us.
Kishan Modessa
June 21, 2009
We are sorry for your loss. Mr. Kachmar was a great teacher. I enjoyed coming to school because he made learning fun. He will be remembered fondly and missed deeply.
Regards
Kishan Modessa and Family
Kristin Evans
June 21, 2009
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Kachmar. He was my 5th grade teacher many years ago at Cetronia Elementary. Of all of the teachers I've had through the years, he was my favorite. He had a way of always emphasizing the strengths of his students, and truly made learning fun. As a 5th grade teacher myself, I still use many of the activities I learned while I was his student. The most important thing he taught me, however, was to greet each day with a positive attitude and a big smile. He will be greatly missed.
Bindi Patel
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was my daughter's favorite teacher. This was her first year at Parkway Manor and he made it a smooth transition. He took great pride in teaching and made it fun for all of his students. She will miss him dearly but remember all that he taught her especially the metric song. She has her "egg" on her dresser to remember him.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The Patel Family
June 21, 2009
Steve was one of the most dedicated and hardworking people I have ever known. He never had an unkind word to say, was always a supportive colleague, and had a great sense of humor. The picture in the newspaper is the way we will always remember Steve--with a smile that could light up a room. Steven and Keri, there are no words to express how sorry we are. Know that your dad was loved by his colleagues and students at Parkway Manor and will always be remembered fondly.
Gina Duffy
Adam White
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was one of the greatest teachers I have ever had. In 4th grade, he taught me the metric system using a song, which i still use today going into high school. He also taught me to dye Pysanky eggs. He touched my life, and many others as well. He was an outstanding teacher, and a great person. Mr. Kachmar will be deeply missed and my thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Josette Rossetti
June 21, 2009
As a parent of one of Mr. Kachmar's students I know my daughter was blessed to have had him as a teacher. He was funny and caring and so giving in the classroom. I accompanied the class to Crystal Cave this year and was so impressed at how he engaged both classrooms during our nature hike. He was silly and irreverant and the kids really appreciated what he showed them. However my favorite memory is from parent visitation day.
While I was there they were doing a language arts lesson, he had the kids stand up and take a deep breath then he started doing the hula and singing "aloha hee aloha hee I have no idea what I am singing..." the kids cracked up got out the giggles and got right back into the lesson.
He was a wonderful teacher and he will be missed.
Kim Stasko
June 21, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. Steve was a kind hearted, dedicated, fantastic teacher. He will be remembered fondly and missed deeply.
miraj kadhiwala
June 21, 2009
dear mr. kachmar you were a nice teacher
i will remember the Jello eating contest
the dunkin for apples and your funny jokes you did and the metric songs we missed you as 4th grade teacher
Tara Tobin
June 21, 2009
Steve was a great person to work with at Parkway Manor and his students always enjoyed being in his class. Steve always had a kind word or a smile to share. My heart goes out to his family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sammy Ringold
June 21, 2009
Mr. Kachmar was a great teacher. It was a very bad thing. My forth grade year was his last year but it was a super year. I will always remember my forth grade year.
Joy Thiel
June 21, 2009
Steve was a dedicated teacher and a devoted father. He will be deeply missed at Parkway Manor. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Christina Glass
June 21, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Douglas Joseph
June 21, 2009
I am very sorry about the loss of Steve. He was honestly one of the nicest people I have ever known. Steve was always in a good mood with an ear-to-ear smile that would light up the room. He was my fourth grade teacher as he was very helpful and a great inspiration to me. There are so many things I would remember about that year because he made it so special. One memory I will always have is the candy he gave us every single Friday. He would put on a movie every Friday afternoon and pass out candy to everyone and we all loved it. Looking back I don't think he ever missed a Friday in giving us candy. He had a way of making every student feel like a million bucks. I worked with him briefly at Parkway Manor as he always said how proud he was that I got into education. Everyone can learn something from the way Steve approached life. His sincerity and kindness will be remembered by everyone. He also had a way of remaining calm through tough situations. These are qualities that only a few people have and Steve definitely had them. We will all miss him very much.
June 21, 2009
Steve and Keri,
My heart hurts for both of you .The news is a shock to alot of us .Your father will be missed by so many people ,he was loved and respected by all.I know the students including my children wanted him so bad in school because of his basketball spinning and beautiful eggs and he was the coolest teacher.The love and friendship you had with your father will always be the best memories and he will be with you in spirit.I know that when I see you I see your father with the beautiful smile he always greeted people with.May you and Keri know We are here if you two ever need us to talk to listen to cry or share laughs about memories.God must have needed an angel because he sure took one .Our prayers of deepest sympathy and love to both of you.
Love Aunt Jackie and Uncle Jim
June 21, 2009
Steven, we are so sorry for your loss..our loss..Your father will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Kenny will miss him at the barber shop and both of us as a dear friend. He has touched so many lives and you can be so proud of him... we are lucky to have known him..With Love, Kenny & Marie Kistler
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