John M. Bronczyk (known by family as “Michael,” and, when younger, “Mikey”) passed away unexpectedly Dec. 18, one month after his birthday, when he lost his battle with cancer. He was 55.
A 1971 graduate of Lane Tech High School, he was a four-year-member of both the ROTC, serving as battalion and color guard commander his senior year, and being in the National Honor Society. He wore the gold and green colors of Lane Tech with such pride that he would sing out the school song whenever something reminded him of his high school years. He was laid to rest in his beloved Lane Tech sweater that was clearly decorated with patches from all his achievements.
Bronczyk was an active and proud 1975 graduate of University of Illinois, where he was a James Scholar, member of Phi Eta Sigma and summa cum laude graduate. He was in the Brotherhood and past president of Alpha Kappa Psi, a past president of the National Education Association of Illinois; also, he appeared in “Who’s Who Among College and University Students.”
Bronczyk started his career as a C.P.M. (certified purchasing manager) in 1976 at the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board. He moved to Sargent & Lundy LLC in 1985, where he worked for 13 years and, finally, was the senior contracting procurement officer at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago.
He loved to play piano and enjoyed the Lyric Opera. He adored life, family and friends. He leaves behind the three sisters who he helped raise in the absence of their mother: Pauline (Chester) Fields, Sally (Charles) Kuss and Marie (Tony) Carnevale. He was the uncle of Charles Jr., Danya, Lindsey, Jay, Brittany, Sarah and Joey, and a friend of many.
A private service was held Dec. 20, 2009.
Arrangements were made by Cremation Society of Illinois (773-281-5058).