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Rastenis, Nicholas
November 8, 1979 - October 19, 2020. Nicholas Rastenis ("Nick"), age 40, of Chicago, Illinois unexpectedly passed on October 19, 2020. An indescribably devasting loss. Nick, precious husband to Kerri Swiatnicki, beloved son to John and Judy (Trzaskus) Rastenis, and dear nephew of Jerry Rastenis. He studied set design at the University of Texas, Austin and attended Yale School of Drama. Nick's presence was felt by all, his passion was inviting and contagious. Most of all his energy, which saturated, defined the spaces he inhabited and the relationships he cherished. His kindness was only matched by his passion, which may have led to the occasionally coffee mug thrown across the room. He was purposeful, active, and embraced his life. He did not simply exist. Nick lived. Hard. He did not believe in playing it safe, fading into the background or accepting the status quo. He sought to live with impact. His fearless unconventionality allowed him to take risks that others would not and experience obstacles and disappointment and many wonderful successes. Nick allowed these experiences to continually shape and grow him. Nick was known for his energy and smile, which always brightened the room. Nick's passion and love for art led him to be part of theater communities, companies, and projects from Austin to New York to Nashville and Chicago. His ideas and creativity were endless and his eye for design was amazing and unique. Nick is also survived by his cats Joe and Uncle Leo whom he loved immensely. He is preceded by his cat Derry with whom he shared a very special bond. We are having services on Sunday October 25, from 3 to 9 pm at Pomierski Funeral Home, 1059 West 32nd Street, Chicago, IL 60608. Please understand, due to Covid 19 protocols, your visitation time may be limited due to capacity. Please wear masks. There will be a virtually viewing through Zoom @ https://bigshouldersfund-org.zoom.us/j/91546712066 between 4 pm and 6 pm with a wake viewing at 4:30 and 5:30. In lieu of flowers, a request for donations to My Block, My Hood, My City @ 47 W. Polk St. STE 100 Chicago, IL 60605 or online at https://www.formyblock.org/donate
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4 Entries
I'm at a loss for words. Rest in peace and power, Nick. Donated to For My Block in his memory.
Stephanie
Friend
November 20, 2020
I was at Yale School of Drama with Nick and saw the tragic news of his passing on YSD's social media account last week. He keeps coming to mind across the days. In his gaze, you could read his shrewd brilliance and different way of looking at the world. Love to his family, Anna and Jamel
Anna Jones
Classmate
November 10, 2020
Nick was such a talented person. I am so sorry to hear of his passing. My family has fond memories of his visits when he first moved to Chicago. We spent many holidays celebrating together. May his memory be a blessing to us all.
Suzy Trzaskus
Family
October 26, 2020
Our hearts was filled with sorrow and our eyes with tears upon hearing the distressing news of Nick’s passing. We extend our most sincere condolences.
Peggy & John Dunsmore
Family
October 25, 2020
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3:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Pomierski Funeral Home - Chicago1059 West 32nd Street, Chicago, IL 60608
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Pomierski Funeral Home - Chicago1059 West 32nd Street, Chicago, IL 60608
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