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Tuesday, March 3, 2015
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The family of Robert F. Ciurczak uploaded a photo
Thursday, February 26, 2015
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David Brust posted a condolence
Friday, October 29, 2010
Mr.Ciurczak was my teacher in the early 70's.I remember him as a teacher who would always take the time to listen.God rest his soul.
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Mark LaChac posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
I knew Mr. C as a teacher, coach, boss and friend (VV'70). I had the opportunity to work for him for several summers with the Denville Recreation Program. I learned many things from Coach that continue to help me today. I ran into his son John at work several years ago and asked him to say hi to his dad for me. The next day John came back and said "hail caesar," which of course was my nickname from 30+ years ago. His touch lives on. May he rest in peace.
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Bob The Blade posted a condolence
Friday, January 1, 2010
A total sweetheart. You knew it the second you met him.
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Karin Crouch Colozza posted a condolence
Thursday, December 31, 2009
I am so sorry to read about Mr. C's death. I remember him so well as a loving father and husband. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with his family.
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Barbara Bennett posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
My deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Ciurczak. My fondest memories are of Valley View - 6th-7th grades back in the 60's - I got MY nickname accidentally - my brother was 15 years older than I, so he'd (thankfully) forgotten about him - I got my nickname one fateful rainy day while playing whiffle ball in the gym with Mrs. Lee's class. I remember whacking the whiffle ball with a big oversized Flintstone's red bat - and it made a beeline uninterrupted for the back door - which suddenly was pulled open by Mr. C - coming in from the rain - Yup - got him smack between the eyes! Everyone took a deep intake of breath - there was a brief stony silence, as I stood frozen - bat in hand - when Mr. C boomed - "WHO HIT THAT?"....well, duh - can't hide a giant Flintstone's brite red bat....so as our eyes met - and nothing came out of my mouth - I'm sure everyone else was pointing at me anyway - he said - "Nice hit, Slugger!!!" and that became my nickname for the remainder of my days at Valley View. Every time we passed in the hallway - he'd say "Hey, Slugger!" - I was very proud to wear that nickname. I am so sorry to hear of his passing - I just lost my dear cousin to prostate cancer and my brother has it as well - Will contact the group Mr. C was in for support and pass along the info. So very sorry - Denville and all of his students will always remember Mr. Ciurczak with fondness.
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Patricia Tonnesen posted a condolence
Thursday, December 10, 2009
I first knew Bob as my teacher, then teacher to my 2 girls, next as a member of the Denville Recreation Committee and lastly as a friend. He was a very special man.
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Bob Douglas posted a condolence
Sunday, December 6, 2009
I was a student at Valley View for 7th grade, before my family moved out of NJ briefly. Mr. Ciurczak was my gym teacher at VV. Throughout all my life after meeting him, never did I meet another like him. I'll be holding his family up in prayer, and thanking our Lord in Heaven,that he was a part of my life, however briefly.
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Lou Maffei posted a condolence
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Some of the best memories I have of growing up in Denville were my days at Valleyview with Mr. C. as my morning bus driver, gym teacher, and health teacher. There was passion in everything thing he did, and he was always a gentleman. He treated me especially well because my dad was one of his first students at Seton Hall Prep when he did his student teaching many years earlier. Mr. C would stop by our house years after he retired just to say hello if he saw us out in the yard. I was always amazed at his energy and vigor. He is truly one of the greats and will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family. Louis Maffei, VV class of '84
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Frank (Butch) Madarasz posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
I have nothing but fond memories of my 8th grade, balcony, homeroom teacher, gym teacher, and baseball coach. He was stern, but fair, and always a touch of levity. I believe his good friend was Mr. Lester Prentice who was my 7th grade homeroom teacher.
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Lynn Arnold posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
I was lucky enough to have Bob help me organize and run the Prostate Support Group through the American Cancer Society after we Regionalized in 2000. He helped me, and other staff and volunteers, run the Prostate Task Force for 5 Counties and run educational groups for all of those Counties, with super professional help.
Bob and I talked once or twice a month after I retired in 2007. Met for lunch a few times but he was still active in supporting men with prostate cancer by attending meetings in Morris and Sussex Counties.
Never once did I ever hear Bob complain about anything, let alone his cancer. He was so proud to have been a good teacher, coach and mentor to so many young people and a friend and helping hand to so many men who faced prostate cancer like he did.
When we had a meeting Bob was the first person there to help me set up, the last person to leave so I was 'escorted' to the door and out of the parking lot safely. The best of the gentlman ever.
Thank you, Bob, for all your help and for all you did for so many people. I will so miss the phone calls that greeted me "Hello young lady"--no matter how old I have gotten.
Lynn
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Ed Cahalan posted a condolence
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Gym class at Valleyview in 1973-74 - what a great time. Soccer, 100yd dash, the 440, climbing ropes in the gym - these activities were all fun due to Mr Ciurczak. In the dictionary, the word "encouragement" should include his picture. I was following the NASA program back then, and Mr C. gave me the nickname "Skylab". God bless his family.
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Andrew Fisher posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Words don't make the grade here.......Simply a devastating loss and he was truly one of the greatest generation. He is irreplacaceble. He was one of the great ones which are few and far between. He cared about kids which was not a pre-requisite for being a teacher. He will be sorely missed. Godspeed Mr. C
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Randy Wolf posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
When in doubt, kick it out! Wolfie kick it out! As my gym teacher for three years at VV we all came to know in our pre-gym warm-up what a leg lift was as opposed to a leg drop. Mr. C a true classic legend in Denville has left many memories for all who knew him. God Bless
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Jody Armento posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
To Amy Franze and family,
My deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved father. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Jody Armento
JDRF
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Bob Doran posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak was an amazing man. As my soccer coach and gym teacher back in 7th and 8th grade, I can still remember this man doing 100 push ups at a time while us 12 year olds struggled to do 10! I will always remember how he called me Rapid Robert on the field.
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Dale Eppel posted a condolence
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Dear Ciurczak family -
I am very sad to learn of the passing of Mr Ciurczak. Even though this is written with a heavy heart, I have a big smile on my face thinking back to what a wonderful, kind and supportive teacher/coach/friend many of us were blessed to have during our short run through the Denville school system.
As a member of the Valleyview baseball and soccer teams in '67 and '68, and gym teacher for my 4 years there, he instilled a great deal of confidence in me which helped tremendously in later years in all sports. I never forgot the gentle(?) bus rides to the games either.
I doubt we were ever late to a game!
He also managed to get the hall patrol out of school for a verrrry looong afternoon to see Gone With the Wind. Aside from the resulting king sized headache due to sitting in the front row for 4 hours (I thought it would be fun), it was awesome having a whole movie theater to ourselves.
And of course, I don't think he ever called me by my first name. It was either Curt (middle name) or, in later years, Debbi (my sister's name - I think I preferred Curt). Finally, one last memory is a saying that he instilled into anyone who played soccer and one that I used for years when I coached for a company soccer team - "When in doubt, kick it out".
Mr. Ciurczak, thank you for everything. You were loved dearly and will be missed by all.
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debbi eppel posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
What? I wasn't his favorite and everyone was? He called me 'the good Eppel' and I'm sure my 4 brothers weren't...or were they as well? He nicknamed me 'Speedy' and offered praise when at that time there was scant opportunity for girls and athletics. It was welcome and so appreciated. His eyes always sparkled, his smile hanging just so... he was one of the very few adults who 'got' the complexities of the middle school years. He treated us with the respect we so clearly sought and was rewarded with the love of his students. I am deeply saddened by his death and offer condolences and gratitude to his family for sharing him with us all.
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John Grzymko posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
Good friend , fine gentleman and a true professional
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Tammy Boyd posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
Wow Mr. Ciurzak this takes me way back to grammar school he was the best and always a happy cheery man, May he rest in peace
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Michael Mulligan posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
Mr. Cuirczak,
Thanks for all of the great memories growing up. You made Denville Recreation and gym class fun. From the Archery Champ and "Good" Mulligan
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David Moore posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the Ciurczak family! May celebration of life and relief from the pain of loss come quickly!
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Emily posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
Thinking of you during this difficult time. I have no doubt that you made your Dad very proud!
Much love from all of us at JDRF.
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Grayce King posted a condolence
Monday, November 30, 2009
Dear Carroll, I was so sorry to read about Bobby. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Grayce
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Saeed Yazdani posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Dear Bob,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your father. Knowing you in the past few months, I can easily tell that your father was a great man and a positive influence on everyone’s life.
Good bless you and the rest of your family.
Best Regards,
Saeed Yazdani
Kavlico Aerospace Engineering
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Gina Ferrone posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with the Ciurczak family.
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DOT LEE CRUZ posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
MR. C. WAS AGREAT TEACHER I WAS IN HIS HOME ROOM!WHEN I LOST MY MOM! HE TOOK ME TO THE SIDE AND LISTEN TO ME AND TALKED TO ME WHAT A COMFORT MR C WAS TO ME! WHAT A TEACHER AND FRIEND! DOTTIE LEE CRUZ
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Judith Amabile Mc Cormack posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
I will always remember all the good times we had. When you were best man at our wedding that was the icing on the cake.
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Bob Scofield posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
My memories of Mr. Ciurczak are from the summers of everyday being at Gardner Field playing ball, checkers, badminton, swimming in the Rockaway River. Also, getting the Dairy Queen gift certificates that he would hand out to the winners of all the events. Him along with my Aunt Gayle (Minervino) gave the youth of Denville a place to go where we could enhance our athletic abilities. He was tough but always fair with us when it came to sports. He was also the one person that led me to a career in soccer when football was just not for me. He was one of the most respected men I ever met and I feel the families loss. Bobby I heard that you ran into Tommy Dean and I am sure he told you that I live in Tucson and that I officiate College Basketball (full time). My prayers are with the family and thanks for sharing Mr. C with me and my family
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Bob Fordyce posted a condolence
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Bob was my phys ed teacher at Valleyview and became a mentor and friend through the junior high coaches association. I will miss his great sense of humor.
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"Tricky Dicky" posted a condolence
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Mr."C",as a father in law, you were the best. You left this mortal world way too soon. I, and especially Regina and "Ricco", will miss you dearly.
Richard (a.k.a.Dick)
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Albert, Roser, Robert and Alicia posted a condolence
Friday, November 27, 2009
Dear Bob Jr,
I always enjoyed hearing the references you use to make about your father. For sure he was a person that had a great impact on you, but alhtough we never met him we believe that through you he has left as well an impact on us. Our thoughts will be with you and your family on December 2nd.
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the great kate posted a condolence
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Words cannot describe how much you will be missed. And even before you were a great-grandfather. You were always great to me. I love you so much Grandpa.
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ed kiesel posted a condolence
Thursday, November 26, 2009
he was my gym teacher in 6th, 7th and 8th grades at main street school. I was not the most athletic person back in those days but he never pressured me. he only encouraged me. I went on to play ball in high school and college and will always be greatful to him.
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Jenna Franze posted a condolence
Thursday, November 26, 2009
My favorite memory was riding in Mr. C's purple car. We went to a fishing hatchery nearby. Love you!
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BOB FOLEY posted a condolence
Thursday, November 26, 2009
A WONDERFUL AND LOVING PERSON. OUR DEAR AND FUN GYM TEACHER AT MAIN STREET SCHOOL. BOB REMEMBERED EVERYONE AND ALL OF THEIR FAMILY AND WOULD ALWAYS HAVE A WARM SMILE AND TWINKLE IN HIS EYE WHEN HE MET HIS FORMER STUDENTS AND SCHOOL TEAM BASEBALL PLAYERS YEARS LATER. MY CONDOLENCES TO HIS FAMILY
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Maureen Knapp DeBolle & Dennis DeBolle posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Time flys - we enjoyed our time with Mr. "C". Best teacher & coach Denville ever had! He really made school enjoyable. He will be missed!
St. Augustine, FL
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Gary Hermann posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Mr. "C" was the second teacher I met when we moved to Denville in 1963 and I remember him fondly. I enjoyed his classes immensley and Mr. "C" inspired a life long love of sports for me. I'll never forget his gentle, good humor, his nicknames for everyone, and his desire to inspire and include everyone in his love of sports.
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Keith Clifford posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Mr.C was the first male teacher I ever had when I was in fifth grade at Riverview School and he was the best!!
He leaves a hole in the many hearts that he touched in all the Denville school kids who were fortunate enough to know him.
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Peter Angus posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Dear Ciurczak Family, Thanks for sharing your wonderful husband and father with the world. He was the best coach,teacher,mentor,ref,fan,
friend and 2nd Dad I could ask for. Mr.C you were so present to us all.Your gift of making us feel better about ourselves will be sorely missed.God blessed you and us.
C
Conrad Roth posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
MR "C" WHAT CAN I ADD TO WHAT SO MANY HAVE WRITTEN.HE WAS TEACHER,COACH & FRIEND TO SO MANY OF US.HE WILL BE SORELY MISSED.
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Adam Tabakian posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
My condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Holly Michaelson posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
With sincere condolences to Amy and her entire family in a very difficult time. Robert sounds like he was a pretty special guy. I am sure he will be sadly missed.
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Catherine Corcoran Botte posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
To the Ciurczak family, My thought & prayers are with you during this time of sorrow.
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Nadine Heichel posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Dear Amy and family,
What a wonderful life your father has lived. I can see that he was surrounded for loving family and friends. What a blessing to all.
Amy, your Dad sounds like a wonderful father and coach. My Dad is still going at 93 and my son just completed playing Division 1 college basketball. I can see what a big spot he will leave. Sending you thoughts and prayers, Warmly Nadine
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alicia posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
My fondest memories are from Smith Mountain Lake, how he couldn't wait for the sunrise boat ride and how much he loved feeding the carp. Bob was a great inspiration on all of his children, especially my wonderful husband. I love and miss you!
alicia
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Jeff Dring posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
As he was to so many Mr.C was a great mentor and inspiration to me during my grade school years. I am proud to say that part of what I am today is a result of his impact on me. There is no doubt in my mind as to where he is at this moment watching and waiting for a chance to "blow the whistle" on someone.
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Lisa Fay & Nicole posted a condolence
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Dear Amy and your family:
We are so sorry. Your Dad - Mr C - clearly touched so many lives. Our best wishes are with you all.
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Brian Farbanish posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The Ciurzak Family, I am so sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Ciurzak (Mr. C). The Denville Recreation Program and Valley View School both have a Guardian Angel. Mr. C had a way of making everyone even the young 9 or 10 year olds in the Denville Summer Rec Program feel welcome or like they fit in. I'll never forget how on the first day of Denville Summer Rec Archery in about 1977 he told all of the older kids to "take 5" so he could teach myself and several other 9 and 10 year olds about how to hold/shoot a bow and arrow without using "dumb thumb" or "stinky pinky". In archery he had a rule that if someone shot a bulls eye they would be given the archery target. Well, as a result of his instruction I actually shot a bulls eye before the end of the summer. I later had Mr. C as a gym teacher in Valley View. On the first day of gym at VV he actually reminded me of that bulls eye. He always remembered all of his past students. Take care Mr.C and I'll never forget you. Brian Farbanish (VV Vlass of 1982)
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Chuck Cavanaugh posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak was the best. What more can I say. I have so many memories. Thanks, Coach...
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Chris Reilly posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Mr. C. was my PAL coach in the 70's. He was the best coach I ever had. What a wonderful and kind man.
Peace and Love,
Chris Reilly
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Joe Douglas posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
I didn't have the privilege of being in his class or of his coaching on an athletic field, but he drove the bus that took me home after school. That was enough to be forever influenced by this extraordinary man.
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Sandi Reynolds posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
I had was a student at Main Street school in the late 50's and Mr. Ciurczak was our Gym teacher. Square dancing, kick ball,baseball and volleyball. What a great man. He also never forgot his students and even sent a condolence note to my brother and I on the passing of our father. Great memories of a wonderful man. God Bless
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Bob Ackerman posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
When I heard the news of Mr. Ciurczak's passing, my thoughts went back to Main Street School as a seventh grader in 1961, playing dodge ball against the school wall during lunch break. He would cheer us on by calling us "nummers". I have no idea where that name came from, but I can look back at it now as a badge of honor. So, from all us Nummers, we'll miss you.
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Rose & Mario Sagaro posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
We did not have the pleasure
of knowing you, but you had to
have been a wonderful man
to have a son like Bob, our
son in law.
M
Marilyn Rear Morgan posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
How can I ever forget my gym teacher from Main Street School in Denville? My greatest disappointment was that I never had Mr. Ciurczak as a homeroom teacher and therefore never had homeroom in the balcony!
So glad to have seen him at our 50th reunion planning get together in Albany and later at some north NJ lunches with classmates. We love him and will miss him dearly.
C
Christine Covert Miller posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Denville has truly lost a treasured community member. I was so glad to have had the opportunity to see Mr. Ciurczak a little over a year ago when he came to my dad's viewing at Norman Dean. It gave me a chance to tell him how much his involvement in the town meant to me and to so many others.
I have many fond memories of Mr. Ciurczak but one thing I will never forget is how much patience he had when it came to teaching someone like me Archery. Because of Mr. Ciurczak, I and so many other kids from Denville have many great childhood memories.
My thoughts and prayers are with the Ciurczak family. God Bless and may Mr. Ciurczak rest in peace.
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Elmer Bodnar posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Bob was a fellow classmate & a longtime friend. He will be sorely missed.
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Joann Nagel Nesbitt posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
My deepest sympathies to the family of Mr. C. I was one of the many who grew up in Denville and learned good sportmanship from Mr. C. He made sure everyone played and everyone was important to the team. I, too, was touched to see him at dad's funeral. Joann Nagel Nesbitt (VV Class of '64)
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Ellen Taylor posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak was my gym teacher for a few years in the Denville Schools. He was a "fixture" in the school community and genuinely seemed to like all the kids. He liked his job, too. You could tell by his enthusiasm in class at at sports events. My lasting image, for some reason, is him teasing me as I got on the school bus every afternoon. What a testimony that he was loved by so many of his students. Ellen Taylort Class of 1968
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Kenny Boehm posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Played sports most of my life. Mr. C was the BEST coach I ever had.
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Regina Ciurczak posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
A lifetime of love, laughter and praise. When it comes to Dads I won the lottery. Dad you're the Greatest! Love Regina Eileen
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Maryann DiGiacomo Mahnken posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Mr.Cuirczak was my favorite teacher of all time. When I was in 5th grade with Miss Farenella he would have her send me to his class to watch science movies. He would always say "Maryann Elizabeth what are you up to?" He will be missed by all. I was grateful that my sons also had him for a teacher.
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Mary Hollock posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
A man's legacy can be seen in his children. Amy Franze is a credit to Robert as a Father and a great human being. They both made the world a better place!
Love to Amy & Harry.
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Sumarni Leman posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
My god hands comforts you and your family in this sorrow times.
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Edie Orlovsky Dim posted a condolence
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
I am saddened by the news of
Bob's death. I was not fortunate enough to have known
Bob during our four years as
East Orange High School classmates, but had the privilege of knowing him from the number of class reunions that we attended over the years.
My condolences to Bob's wife, his children, and the rest of his family.
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Pat Schomer and Kevin Hurd posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
He was a compassionte man and father figure to numerous Denville students who had the good fortune to know him as a teacher, coach and mentor. He was my teacher at Main Street School and my son's at Valley View. He was a role model for all who knew him. We send our sincere sympathy to his family.
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Richard Spratley posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
God bless and watch over you Mr Ciurczak as you enter His kingdom. Comfort all he loved and who loved him.
T
Tom Kennedy posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Regina, Bob, Amy and John,
I'm sorry to hear about Coach, but with what I know he must have gone through, God has finally granted him his blessing. He was a great and memorable guy.
Great men are not measured by their money, or stature in public life, or public fame or material accomplishments. They are known by their good humor, their warmth, by the impact their lives have on others, and by the contribution they make with their lives to the common good. By those measures, your father was truly a Great Man of his community and his times. I have rarely met a man who was so positive in his spirit and who could make people feel so good about simply being in the room with him. In reading what the members of his community wrote about his impact on their lives, I can only hope that I will have but a fraction of the lasting value that Coach had on his community. That is his immortality here on earth, and about the only lasting value we can wish for the time we spend here. Coach blessed those around him with his positive outlook and manner, and, in turn, was greatly blessed and loved. I'm pretty sure he pitches now on God's ball team.
Tom Kennedy for Tom, John and George Kennedy of Utah and Louisiana
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Ray Hepper posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Mr. C (we all called him Bob behind his back) was a great guy and will be long remembered. As my Valley View gym teacher, he has a special place for me. Despite the fact that I’m totally blind, he always made sure I was included (and tortured) along with everyone else. Seeing his obituary immediately below my mom’s is yet another strange coincidence in life. Having attended her funeral today, my thoughts are with his entire family. Ray Hepper VV1969.
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Dorothy Ludgate posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Carroll, I am so sorry. I had no idea Bob was suffering so long. His voice on the phone was always so upbeat. What a nice guy. The class of EOHS "44 will always remember him. Love, Dorothy
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Amy, darling daughter posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dad - Whenever I told you that "I love you"...you told me "I love you more"...well guess what I LOVE YOU EVEN MORE. Miss you with all my heart! Promise to make you proud.
J
Janine D'Esposito posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
My thoughts are with the Ciurczak family, my neighbors while growing up on Ann Street. God Bless.
j
julie and kylin posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Regina,
I am so sorry for your families loss.
Hugs:
Julie and Kylin
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Lori McLane posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Amy,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time of sorrow.
With Our Sympathy,
Lori McLane and
The Central Jersey Chapter Staff
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Robin Marquez posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Although I never met your Dad
I'm sure he was a wonderful person who will be missed by many. May your memories of times shared with him bring you and your family comfort
during this difficult time.
His love will carry on through the hearts of many. Take care of yourself and your family. Love, Robin & Al
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Mary Anne Fox posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy-
We are all thinking of you and your family with love and sympathy. I trust that you have many wonderful memories of your father that will help you through this very difficult time.
Mary Anne Fox
JDRF
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Warren Williams posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
I will remember him as the Coach and teacher who brought out the best in me. I valued him so much as a coach and speak highly whenever baseball comes into the conversation.
Rest in Peace Mr. Ciurczak
D
Dick Fitch posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
We were very fortunate to have had Mr. C at our Class of 1957 Reunion reciently and he hadn't changed a bit. Few people leave lasting impressions on our lives and fewer are responsible for forming the character, integrity and selfworth needed as a young child during the formative years at "Main Stret". God blessed me when Mr. C crossed my path.
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Erin Miller posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy - You and your family are in all my thoughts and prayers.
C
Carol B Viktorin posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Reg,
My thoughts and prayer are with you and your family. "The girls" hope to see you soon.
Carol
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Liz Giardina Preston posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy - So sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Peace be with you.
Liz Preston and the staff of the JDRF, Mid Jersey Chapter.
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tara lynn posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
I will always remember the encouragement and support Uncle Bob gave to me during my years as a swimmer. He was always so positive and always made you feel like you were the best no matter what. I will miss him a ton. Aunt Carroll, Posie, Amy, Gina, John and Bob you are all in my thoughts and prayers. Your Dad was the best!!!!
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Steve Taylor posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
To the family: may you find comfort for the loss of this fine man in the many friendships he nurtured and lives he touched.
Years after he was my Phys Ed teacher, we both helped Riverview School mark its 50th anniversary. I was one of the earliest students and he was one of the earliest teachers. He remembered me, my brother and sister and, it seemed, the parents and grandparents of every kid in the room. An astonishing memory arising from a great heart.
Best wishes to all.
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Gerri Bostick posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
To Amy & Family,
Reading through your father's obituary reminded me that good deeds and caring about other people is what life is all about. His imprint on so many will be a lasting testament of who he was and what he believed in. His magical footsteps in the sands of time will be followed by all those he touched and loved in his life time, especially his family.
I light a candle for the angel that your father was. God's peace be with you and your family.
Love,
Gerri Bostick
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Tim McEntyre posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Gym class during the week, his bus route, class trips at all hours of the day, night, and weekends, Summer Recreation (including my archery class), one would think that Mr. C. were triplets, he made Denville a great place to call home, and gave two generations of my family memories to last a lifetime, he will truly be missed - Tim McEntyre, Brick NJ
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Laura Western posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy and Family-
I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
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Laura Maciag posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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Gabby Lambesis posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Amy and Family, What a great Dad - this is a beautiful tribute! I am sorry for your loss and hope you are surrounded with love and comfort during this difficult time. With deep sympathy, Gabby JDRF
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Kevin Chlodnicki posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Of course MR Circzak gave me the nick name babcia [BAHP-chah]. Wich mean grandma in polish....we had an Undefeated 8th grade baseball team in 68 with Mr. C. never had more fun.....RIP....Coach, teacher and friend for life.
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Becky Jackson posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy and Family,
What a wonderful tribute to your Dad!
I am so sorry for your loss but know you have wonderful memories that will last a lifetime!
Hugs and Prayers,
Becky Jackson
JDRF
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Claudette Downs posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
To the family of Mr. Ciurczak - you are all in my thoughts and prayers. I have many great childhood memories spent at your home with much laughter and love. With deepest sympathy, Claudette Ernst Downs.
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Maryann Jacobson posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Amy,
Thinking of you and your family as you remember your father's extraordinary life.
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Brooks Biagini posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this deeply sad time, Amy. Your father has left a wonderful legacy in you and your family. May God bless you all and give you the strength, peace and hope to keep faith in the days ahead.
My sincere condolences,
Brooks
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Wendy Lovgren Halliburton posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Dear Ciurczak Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember Mr. Ciurczak as my gym teacher, bus driver, recreational organizer when my son, Craig, was little. He was always very up-beat and inspiring. He will be greatly missed.
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Sridhar Thodupunoori posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
This must be very difficult for you and your family. Please accept our sincere sympathy. Our prayers are with you and your family.
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Rick Barnes posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
My thoughts and prayers to the entire Ciurczak family. Thank you for sharing this wonderful man with all of us. As a born "non-athlete", I was still treated with respect and dignity by Mr Ciruczak, and I will never forget that. May he rest in peace, and may his family be comforted by the fact that this man was a positive influence on thousands of lives.
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meghan posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
He was a great teacher- truly loved his work. My thoughts and prayers.
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Dave Hedden posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
He was my baseball coach, my soccer coach, my bus driver, my gym teacher but most important of all, he was my friend. Unbelievably, after not seeing him for 32 years, he came to my father's wake in 2001 to support me and my sister. He was one of a kind and will be missed dearly by all who knew him. R.I.P. coach.
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Stacey Schinella Turner posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
My thoughts & prayers are with your family during this difficult time.
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kim and travis carpenter posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
I did not know Mr "C" but having known one of the generous, kind, coaching spirited daughters, I am aware of what a wonderful man he was. His legacy is a gift to those he so enjoyed helping.
My thought are out to the entire family.
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Jennifer Fishkind posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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E. Gore posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Was a good man and a great educator. Will be missed by so many.
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Ken Mc Elroy posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
There are too many memories of the truely wnderful teacher,coach mentor,and above all man. Someone else wrote he was larger than life and he was. He only knew one way to do things "the right way" He encourages the best of athletes exactly the same way as he encourages the most challenged athletes. He greeted everyone everyday with a smile referred to everyone the same "Oh it the Good (fill in the last name)"
He would have carried everyone on his soccer teams and baseball teams if there were only enough uniforms and bus seats for away games. But if your name did not appear on the roster the next time he saw you he would say "keep working at it and you will succeed" what we never realized then was that he was referring to life not to middle school sports. A great man joined the chior of angels. I am sitting here typing this envisioning him discussing the state of Seton Hall basketball with my DAD over breakfast in Heaven! God Bless the Ciurczak family for allowing us to share in the life of a wonderful man. Rest in Peace Mr Cuirzak there are literally thousands of former VV students and Denville kids who learned what life should be about from YOU!!!!!
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Marion Cunic posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
Such a wonderful man and a very fine example to all of the children whose lives he touched. My four children had Mr. Ciurczak at Valleyview and our daughter, Anne, worked with him at Denville Recreation. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers to the entire Ciurczak family.
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Leslie Vatter Moore posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
I was "what's the matter, Vatter" at Vallyview Junior High from 1983-1985. Athletics was never a strong point for me, but Mr. C made it fun. I remember he made me redo the shotput cause I didn't yell loud enough when I threw it. He will always be remembered with a smile.
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Linda McEvoy posted a condolence
Monday, November 23, 2009
God bless you and your family. So fond are my memories. Gardner Field Recreation began with Mr. C. Archery will always be etched in my mind. Fine man, fine fine man. Rest in peace eternally.
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Jeffrey Reeves posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak in 7th Grade gym at Valley View said to us, "When you see a great runner, they don't stop right at the finish line, they run through the finish line and beyond it." The same goes for great teachers. Thanks Mr. C. My condolences to all his family and friends. Jeffrey Reeves, Hollywood, CA.
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Pat Mulligan posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
What a fine teacher and coach and also Summer Recreation Director -- Bob was fantastic with all children. I have many fond memories and countless stories of Mr. C with my four sons. May he rest in peace. My thoughts and prayers are with him. My deepest sympathy to his wife and family.
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Peterson Family posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Bob had all three of our sons in school but the most memorable was when our son Mark (age 5 or 6 at the time) threw a bucket of ice cold ocean water in Asbury Park right on Bob. I thought Bob was going to kill him, but he took it well and we had a good laugh
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The Rackowksi Family posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Bob was a favorite of our children -- but most definitely of Ed and myself. He always had a smile and the kids always enjoyed having him around. They all respected him and looked to him for advice. He was a wonderful role model -- wouldn't it be great if all teachers could follow in Mr. C's footsteps. Our sincere sympathy.
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Joe Schomer posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
A beloved coach and mentor. As good a man as God ever put here on earth. I have nothing but fond memories of Main Street school and Mr. Ciurczak yelling "Sit on it Joey!!" when a hot ground ball came my way as I was daydreaming in the outfield. Truly a great American and a good Christian man. His generation were the absolute best. A wonderful guy.
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Ricco posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
I wish you had survived,
until you were one hundred and five! I miss you already.
When you get to heaven please my dads' dad all about me.
I Love You.
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Barbara J. Parker posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
I never had the honor of knowing Mr. Ciurczak but in knowing Amy, I know that he was a wonderful man.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ciurczak family at this difficult time.
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Francis Maher posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
He was a great person and a dear friend to all of his students.
I bet his is blowing the whistle in heaven looking for all of his students from Denville.
Francis Maher Class of 57
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nancy brangwin posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
To All Of the Ciurczak Family, I had the privelege of having "Mr.C" for my teacher for so many years.
He was simply, the best of the best! I have thought of Him many times over the years and it always brought a smile to my face.He is a wonderful human being and brought so much joy to so many of us that were fortunate enough to have known Him. I will treasure Him in my heart forever. With Heartfelt Sympathy to All of You.
Love, Nancy Brangwin
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Joe & Linda Small posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Bob, We know you only from our conversations with Amy and Harry. Seems lives run together, when we learned of your knowledge of the Black family, in the Highlands.To learn of you thru your departing is so very sad, as we would have liked to share thoughts of a time long ago on the Jersey shore. Amy spoke with such warmth about you. Rest in piece and may God bless you and yours. Joe and Linda Small
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Dan Price posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
My condolences to Bobs family. Denville will miss Bob. Rest in peace knowing that you made a difference in this world.
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Scott W. Baldwin posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak was the best, always full of energy and positive things to say.
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Jean & Harold Fischer posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Always a smile and a friendly greeting. We'll miss him from our community. His family and friends will be comforted that he now rests in the company of the Lord.
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Judy Brangwin Baker posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
I will never forget that happy face greeting me on the school bus and calling me by my brothers name....every day!!! He was a great teacher and truly cared about every single student. My last memory of Mr. C is a blessed one. I walked into Norman deans early for my moms wake and there in the register was the name Robert Ciurczak. I cannot tell you what a warm feeling that gave me as I had graduated 30 years prior. He was truly one f Gods Angels. My sympathy goes out to the family for this tremendous loss.
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Bill Ferraiuolo posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
I have been blessed with having had a few special people who have served as role models and mentors. I believe that they have helped shaped my life. "Coach C." was clearly one of them.
He had a great passion for people and he loved to teach. Sports served as his tools to teach the greater lessons about integrity and fair play.
It has been decades since I last spoke to him, but I have thought about him a great many times. I am very glad to have had the opportunity to have known him and to have learned from him.
My thoughts and prayers go to his family.
Bill Ferraiuolo
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Michael Ferraiuolo posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mr. C was the "Glen Holland"
for so many generations of Denville students and like Mr. Hollands Opus, Bob Ciurczaks legacy is the imprint he made on so many with his gentle humor and high standards. My brothers and I knew him at Valley View School from 1965-1968 or so. I have not had the pleasure of seeing him since then, but when our mother passed away in 2006 he kindly telephoned the Dean Funeral Home to extend his condolences. How very thoughtful after so many years, and how like Mr. C to do it.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.
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Dot (Duke) Kelley posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
My thoughts and prayers go to all of Mr. C's family and friends! You will be missed!
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Christine (Peters) Gneiding posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Deepest Sympathy to the family of Mr. Ciurczak.
Lessons he taught many years ago have become fundamental life lessons that we have given to our children. His memory will live on in future generations.
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John McLellan posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mr. Ciurczak. You have been, are and always be my hero. From the first day we met, could it have been 1959, you embodied what I hoped our educators would be; a strong, but compassionate figure with an unwavering commitment to be a positive influence in a child’s life. I recall a kind of quiet confidence that made you a pillar in the otherwise stormy existence of pre-teen life.
How often have I pondered what it was that made you so special? Unfortunately, I learned later than I would have liked, that it was knowing who you are, what you want from life and feeling good about it. How many of us go through life and never reach that point. Fortunately, for those of us who you touched, you had that all figured out.
About five years ago, I spoke with Bob and told him how much he meant to me. I’m so glad I did.
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Dawn Findlay-Linzey posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
I will always remember the big yellow Denville Recreation bus that would arrive with you in it to take us kids bowling, movies, etc....You had unlimited patience with us and I still tell my children about those summers. You are already missed.
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Larry Schaefer posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
He was one of my favorite teachers in school. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family
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charles mandala posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
always with a smile and a joke, a quiet hearty laugh, and the only one who called me "Doctor" M. Love you Bob,
Dr. Charles
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Bill/Barbara Vanderbrg posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
We will always remember Bob's wonderful smile and happy shared times at his home. He has touched so many lives and I was lucky to be one of them. God Bless, Bill and Barbara
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Barry B. Snowden posted a condolence
Sunday, November 22, 2009
My condolences to Mr. C's entire family. He was a postive influence on all students and a larger than life personality.
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Lois K Tarquin posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Mr C was my teacher in 7th and 8 th grade, Main Street School. He was a wonderful teacher, a terrific role model and an inspiration to a generation of Denville students. We loved him and he loved us. We all knew that. It was what made him so special. My thoughts and prayers to his family, who loved him and who he loved. He will be greatly missed.
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Susan Lorenzo posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Mr. "C" was my PE teacher at Valleyview although I knew of him through my parents involvement with the Denville School system. Both my sons loved and respected Mr. "C" as students in the Denville school system. He blessed us all for his dedication to children thoughtout his years in Denville.
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REMBRANDT posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
In memory of the best father in law a person could have. He raised a wonderful daughter who is the treasure of my life. I will miss him and all his wonderful stories.
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Stacy Garbasz-Casella posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
I had the pleasure of having Mr. C as my gym teacher in middle school and that was a long time ago. I am so happy to hear he led a long, happy life with family and friends, and doing the things that made him happy! I am sorry to hear of his passing. The world lost another awesome soul, but is a better place because when he was here, he made a difference to many and he will be missed. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. Rest In Peace Mr. Ciurczak
Stacy Garbasz-Casella
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Arnold J Bakke Jr. posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
So sorry for your loss, Heavens gain. Mr. Ciurczak was my coach at Valleyview school 1972-1973. He was a great help to me in those akward years.Thanks BOB signed Arnold Bakke ST. Pauls NC
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Kenneth Marek posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Mr. C was my favorite gym teacher and my baseball coach at Velleyview. Aside from coaching he was one of my favorite people. I will miss him dearly.
God Bless
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Jeffery Fogg posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Mr.C was just one of those Special people that came into your life only once. He was not only a great teacher of health and sports but also a great teacher of Life. I had the pleasure of talking to him on the phone a couple of months before leaving for Antarctica. He remembered me and my brothers also. He was one of Gods "Special" persons and will be missed by many !! RIP Mr. C !!!
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Donna "Wiedman" Cook posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
What a great man and a great teacher. I knew him from the old Valleyview days. Rest In Peace Mr. Ciurczak.
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Michael T. Masciale posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
I know how difficult this must be for you and your family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. If there is anything I can do to make this time easier for you please do not hesitate to ask. May God bless you and your family during this time and always.
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Maurizio Morsellillli posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
My thoughts and deep prayerss tot to the family
May the onderful memories of this wonderful man sustain you
In celebrating the legacy of af this wonderful man
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Amy (Cunningham) Jones posted a condolence
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Our Thoughts and Prayers are with you during this time of loss. He touched so many lives in such positive ways. He will be missed. Amy (Cunningham) Jones & family
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Gary Carl posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
"For when the One Great Scorer comes to mark against your name,He writes not that you won or lost but how you played the Game."
A true gentleman, an inspirational teacher and a wonderful human being. My sincere condolances to his family.
Hon. Gary R. Carl, Oakridge, Oregon
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Janet Wargo (Opp) posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
A truly remarkable human being who touched my life from the first time I met him, when he became my 4th grade PE teacher. So many of us became teachers because of Mr C. I will miss him and his wonderful smile....always a kind word. In the last few years I have had the pleasure of knowing his family and thought of him as the grandfather that I never had. I will truly miss this Giant of a man!
God bless you Mr Ciurczak....I know you are at his side.
Love,
"Oppy"
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The Valle/Amabiles posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
Uncle Bobby, we will miss your smile, your quick wit and that beautiful heart. Jessica adores you and always asks about you. Even shy little Gracie would give Bob her coy little smile. Dan and I frequently talk about how your face lit up when your "blond bombshell" walked in the room. That's the way we want to be with each other after ____ years of marriage. We love you and we miss you.
Mary, Dan, Jessica, Gracie and DJ
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John Ciurczak posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
To the Worldest Greatest Father.
I miss you and will see you soon.
Love your son John
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Bruce Parks posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
Blessed peace to you, Mr. C. You were the guiding inspiration for my life and teaching. I'll miss you!
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Cassandra Waggoner posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
Dear Amy, Harry & family,
My thoughts are with you at this difficult time. Losing a parent is one of the hardest things to experience and yet the loving memories we carry with us help the spirit live forever.
With love, Cassandra
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Kathy Dunlap posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
I am one of his many past students who fondly remember him and am sincerely sorry to hear of his passing.
My sincere condolences to Mrs. C and all of Mr. C's children.
Kathy Popow Dunlap
Valleyview School 1965
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Todd Bataille posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
The man was a legend in his own time. There must be hundreds of people who knew him and loved him and will miss him. Count me as one among the many.
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Mike Bradford posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
Mr C. was not only my gym teacher in 1974 but he also drove our bus to school.
"Let's get the troops out of the hot sun" he would say as he picked us up in sub zero weather! We will all miss him.
Mike B Atlanta
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Pat, Lisa and Felicia posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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Pam Swenk posted a condolence
Friday, November 20, 2009
To Amy and the entire family -- our very best thoughts and wishes are with your family during this time of loss -- as well as in subsequent period of healing and rejoicing in the memories and love of a man who was so very dear to you all.
Pam, Kirk and Elizabeth Swenk
