Robert Straszewski

In life you get ready to live or spend your time getting ready to die. Born to eternal life on October 28, 2015 Robert Dennis Straszewski lived a full life until the very end. Preceded in death by his father Dominic and his mother Helen, he leaves behind his beloved wife Barbara "Basia" Straszewski whom he adored, three step daughters that he treated as his own: Cecilia (Gary) Young, Rashida Woods (DeWayne) Parrott, Melli "Mel" (Eliot) Wickliff, ten grandchildren to whom he delighted in being their Dzia Dzia (Jordan, Ramon, Alonzo, Grant, Ashleigh, Rocco, Gianna, Ari, Savannah, and his little Hope Marie), one great grand daughter Serenity, his sister Elaine (Phillip) Posard, and many other family and friends who faithfully wait to join him in heaven. The blue and white Messmer Bishop touched many lives as a teacher and coach to countless students and athletes across decades. His enthusiasm for sports and endless historical knowledge served as his introductory greeting. While he infected us all with his loquacious personality, his kind heart and love one another as thy self mentality served as an example to anyone who crossed his path. Mr. S, as his students would call him, opened minds by welcoming all ideas and diverse viewpoints into his classroom encouraging students to learn both from and about each other. On the court and the field, Coach Bob impacted lives not just games. His leadership was deserving of an All American – teaching his athletes the true meaning of hard work. He danced into our hearts through the Syrena Polish Folk Ensemble bringing his energetic spirit to even greater heights. Bob was a faithful member of the Order of Carmelites Seculars (OCDS) at Mary Help of Christian Province at Holy Hill. The quote of St. Teresa, "Yours I am. For you I was born. What do you ask of me" was on his mind and in his heart. We invite you to join us and celebrate the life of a good and just man who looked equally upon all whom he encountered. He was One in the Lord with all of God's children. Barbara, Ceci, Rashi, and Melli wish to thank the Aurora Hospice team: Jennifer (nurse), Vicky (social worker), and Susanne (aide) and all others who provided such loving compassionate assistance since September 21st. Arrangements: Life celebration will take place on Saturday November 7, 2015 at Our Lady of Divine Providence Parish-St. Casimir Church, 2600 N. Bremen St., visitation from 9-11 am, with Mass to commence at 11:00 am and a reception honoring Bob's life and love of food and Sprecher's root beer to immediately follow. In lieu of flowers Bob would appreciate donations to the Riverwest Food Pantry.