Patrick "Pat" Eugene Pazak

Patrick Eugene Pazak (“Pat”), age 75, of Cedar Lake (formerly Schererville) passed away on September 8, 2026. Pat was born on July 27, 1951, in Gary, IN. Pat is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Joan, his beloved daughter Grace, his cherished siblings, Most Reverend John S. Pazak, C.Ss.R. of Phoenix, AZ and Canada, retired Col. Michael G. (Mary Jo) Pazak of Scottsdale, AZ, and Kathleen A. (Daniel Klecker) Pazak of Cambridge, WI; and numerous nieces and nephews whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his sister and brothers, Mary E. Dolan (Pazak); Thomas P. Pazak, and James F. Pazak. Pat graduated from Andrean High School in 1969 and then enlisted in the Air Force where he honorably served 4 years as a Korean translator. After discharge, Pat pursued his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree at Indiana University Northwest, where he was a member of Delta Sigma Pi. Pat then worked as a Bank Examiner for the Federal Government, specializing in Savings and Loans - first at the Office of Thrift Supervision, and then the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency for over 30 years until retiring in 2016. He was formerly a member of St. Michael’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Merrillville, IN. In addition, Pat was also a member of the Gary Sportsmen Club, loved his monthly Poker Club of close friends, couldn’t wait for summer to participate in his golf leagues, and always looked forward to the corned beef and cabbage at the Friendly Sons of Erin every year with his friends, cousin, brothers, or nephews. Pat was an extraordinary husband and father - truly devoted to his family, and in true in Irish fashion ready to greet you with a smile, a beer, and a story inspired by one of the three newspapers he devoured each morning. Pat loved life, always lighting up a room with his welcoming smile. When given the opportunity to recount any of his many childhood (Glen Park) tales, Pat could break into laughter so hard he couldn't breathe. Pat's love of music was legendary. While he couldn't identify much recorded after 1975, he never missed an opportunity to share his appreciation for Hank Williams Sr., Roy Orbison, Bob Dylan, Patsy Cline, or a beloved Irish folk tune with anyone fortunate enough to be within earshot. Among Pat's many skills included speaking Korean and having the patience of a saint, though swinging a hammer was not among them, as Joan would attest. He had far more important priorities: enjoying time spent with the family he loved and cherished from across the country and celebrating every milestone he wouldn't dream of missing. Patrick will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew and loved him. Memorial service details are pending and will be shared at a later time.

Patrick "Pat" Eugene Pazak

July 27, 1951 - September 8, 2026