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Teddy Staniec Obituary
On November 20, 2009 Teddy James Mullen Staniec passed away in Santa Cruz after a difficult struggle with addiction during the last years of his life. Teddy was born on July 22, 1980 in Soquel and was proud to be a lifelong resident of Santa Cruz. His entire life Teddy was full of energy and ideas for the future and remained that way up until his last days. He always had a plan for the future, from becoming a personal trainer to being a computer programmer and he always kept in sight the day that things would finally come together. But those of us who knew him, know that he found it difficult to fit comfortably into the society in which we live.
Teddy was the most loyal friend one could ever hope for. He would, and on many occasions did, sacrifice his own well being if he thought that it had any hope of helping someone he cared about. No favor was ever too big to ask of Teddy, and all that had the opportunity to get to know him understood that when push came to shove, if you needed him, Teddy would be there for you. Teddy had a remarkable ability to be passionate about things; from basketball, to the gym, from storytelling to that extra bit of whip cream on his waffle; Teddy never went into anything halfheartedly. "Go big or go home!"
Teddy had a nearly unattainable moral code. He demanded honesty and loyalty from all those around him and more than one of us are a better person because of it. Over the past few years Teddy had many difficult days, but through it all he maintained an unparalleled ability to put a smile on your face when you most needed it.
Teddy leaves behind his parents, Jim and Rayona Staniec, brothers Dylan and Riley Staniec, loving Grandmother Doris Bills, and Grandfather Ted Staniec all of Santa Cruz. He is also survived by many aunts, uncles, cousins and loyal friends. We are grateful for the wonderful ways he enriched our lives and the amazing joy he could create.
To honor Teddy his family asks that you show compassion to someone that you don't understand and kindness to someone who needs it.
A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, November 28, 2009 at Harvey West Park; 12:00 noon to be followed by a pot luck lunch. A private cremation and committal under the direction of Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel will take place at a later date.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Teddy Staniec
Sponsored by Riley Staniec.
Angela Landry
December 8, 2009
Rayona,
I wanted to extend my heartfelt condolences for the loss of you son. I never met him, however I remember hearing stories about him and his brothers when I was in you ROP MA class! You always spoke of "your boys" with love and pride.
My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Isabel Torres
December 1, 2009
Dear Rayona and family. I did not know Teddy, but Rayona was my teacher for my MA class fall 2006. I lost my dad during the time I was taking her class and she was very supportive. I am very sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was very sadden to hear the news and it took me a second to make the connection. Hope you over come this difficult loss. I remember you talking about yor "boys" during class sometimes and all of us girls would tease you.We would always ask are they cute?Now that I see his picture he was indeed good looking.Again very sorry for your loss and keep in mind your son,brother and grandson is now in peace!
December 1, 2009
Dear Rayona, Jim, Dylan and Riley
We are so sad to hear of Teddy’s passing. He was a great kid and will be greatly missed. We remember him growing up with our kids at Delaveaga, B-40 and Harbor. We are saddened that his life ended this way. Teddy will be remembered by all whose lives he touched. Our prayers go out to you and the entire family. Time will heal the broken hearts left behind, but not erase the memories, good memories.
To Teddy; Son, brother, friend. Rest in Peace.
The Bisagno/Wood Family, Santa Cruz, CA
Courtney Turner
November 29, 2009
I'll remember Teddy always - with that smile that lit up his face.
Amy
November 29, 2009
Rayona, Jim, Dylan , Riley
The celebration of Ted's life and the grief of his passing was shared by so many of us yesterday. The out pouring of love and compassion was felt by everyone. I hope you will able to find comfort in the knowledge that a little piece of Ted will come forth as we practice more compassion for others in our lives. Love, Amy
Daniel Mastin
November 29, 2009
Teddy was a a leader, my self and a lot of others looked up to him. i wish i could have seen him around more. My hart go's out to his family i couldn't imagine losing my son, Im so sorry. He will not be forgotten.
Jesse Higdon
November 29, 2009
Teddy is and always will be one of the best Men you could ever know. He was a man of his word and is deeply missed by all who knew him.
Boring Family
November 28, 2009
Staniec Family,
My heart is breaking for you, and I cannot fathom what you all must be going through. I remember when Teddy, Drew, Brody and many other friends of my son's, would spend Saturday nights at our house, knowing they'd be fed a glorius brunch that my husband made each Sunday. Those boys knew how to EAT! Teddy will be missed by so many, and our hearts and prayers are with you in this most difficult time.
Kai Prenter
November 28, 2009
Teddy was a top notch bloke and always will be as far as Im concerned.
I am very sorry to hear this news.
Elizabeth Byrd
November 28, 2009
I knew Teddy in high school and he was always quick to laugh and smile. My heart goes out to his family as it is unfathomable to understand the pain associated with losing your child. My family will be praying for yours this holiday season.
Timothy Bryant
November 28, 2009
Even though I'd only see him every now and then, I couldn't help but smile when I'd see Teddy. His presence is so great. My deepest condolences for all who loved him.
Ann Hanes
November 28, 2009
Our son knew Teddy and spoke so highly of him. He told of the fun they spent playing basketball together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you as Teddy rests in peace with God in heaven.
Jan & Carla Bentley
November 28, 2009
Dear Jim,Rayona,Doris,Dylan and Riley
We had so much fun with Teddy at New Melones when he went water skiing and camping with us. He amazed me, and how I respected him, when he mastered chess in one day! His basketball game was always exciting; his passion true! His time with you was short_he struggled mightily_his warrior spirit has moved on; now he is free of addiction and the pain that accompanies it. We are all so sad that it ended this way for him instead f a lasting recovery. So few persons are fortunate enough to stay clean and sober. Peace will come and broken hearts mend, through love and caring of family, friends, and the enduring bonds of Son,GrandSon,Brother,Friend.
Jan McGeorge
November 28, 2009
Dear Rayona, Jim, Riley and Dylan,
I cannot fathom the depth of your loss of your son and brother. Your family has always been strong and I know that strength will carry you through as you have to navigate a new world without him. Your written tribute to Teddy was truthful and beautiful. I am so sorry. In sympathy and understanding,
Steven & Carolyn, Adam & Zachary Crocker
November 28, 2009
Dear Jim & Rayona, Dylan & Riley,
We are deeply moved by Teddy's dying. Our hearts go out to you who loved and cared for him. Knowing both your dignity and love, I cannot help but believe in the true heart of this young man. And knowing your sorrow, may you find comfort in the love you have for one another, in the love others have for you, and in the love that is shared for Teddy.
Gayhart Family
November 27, 2009
Staniec Family,
Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. I can only imagine the pain and heartache you are going through. Dylan and Riley stay strong and know that you have friends.
Reach out to them when you need them.
Bill, Robin, Megan and Hilary Gayhart
Gayhart Family
November 27, 2009
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
June Radicchi
November 27, 2009
Stunned and saddened by Teddy's untimely passing but happy that his passing does not define him at all; he will be remembered lovingly.
June Radicchi
Eva Nelson
November 27, 2009
Jim,
My heart aches for you and your family. I'm so sorry.
Laurie
November 25, 2009
Dear Rayona, Jim & family,
My heartfelt sympathy is with all of you. May god bless your family with strength and support and may you find comfort in Teddy's loving memories.
Araceli Saldana
November 25, 2009
We were so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Jason Barr
November 25, 2009
I am sorry for your loss. I knew Teddy back at Harbor High. He could always make people laugh. My prayers are with your family.
Jeannie
November 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Tanya Hernandez
November 25, 2009
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
November 25, 2009
No bond is as great as that between a parent and child. My deepest condolences are with you as you grieve.
KayDee Frye
November 25, 2009
I don't know any of you but that was the sweetest remerbrance I have ever read. I'm sure you gave him the best life possible under the circumstances. You have my deepest sympathy.
Barbara/Jared Krilanovich/Valdez
November 25, 2009
We will never forget your smile and those big blue eyes or how loyal you have always been to us. We could always count on you to make us laugh and you've always been an amazing friend. You are a new star in our sky and will be looked upon frequently.
We love you and you'll always be missed Teddy!
Barbara Krilanovich and Jared Valdez
Stephanie
November 25, 2009
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Cindy Cruz
November 25, 2009
Hi Ted, its your friend Cindy. I miss you so much. We all do. I just want you to know how much I have always cherished our friendship just as every other friend in your life has. We all love you so much. These past couple of days I have been thinking about all the good (great) times we had, those were the best days, im sure for all of us. And nothing will ever take those memories away from me. I will always keep you close to my heart. I love you Ted. Love always....Cindy (but you probably remember best as dondo) xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo I wish I could give you a huge hug, I remember the last time I saw you, I loved your smile, your family is right you always had a smile on your face. And I was so thrilled when you showed up at my wedding, I was so nervous and about to walk down the aisle, and then I turned around and you were there, I hadn't seen you in so long, I just wanted to run up to you and give you a huge hug.
Your friend forever. Once again I love you always.
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