John Cina Obituary

To John's family and friends,
Although this is 15 years since his passing, I want you to know that he was an inspiring, enlightening, and supportive music teacher during my time at Tuley High School. He taught me that I sang as an altogether soprano, and introduced me to the Chicago All City Choir, which I became a member of. He also eloquently introduced a few of students to music traditions of the Jewish faith. Peace, Mr. Cina.

It's not too late to add a message to my friend and former teacher John Cina Before he moved on to Lane Tech John taught at Tuley High school. I too learned to tie a bow tie at his insistance . More than that I spent my early years learning to sing in tune . I remember helping in small ways to help John build not one but two harpsicords from kits to completion. I don't think there was ever a musical instrument he could not learn to master. John did it all.

A great man and friend..very missed!

My deepest condolences to the family! I was a student of John's at Lane.

I don't know quite what to say. I'd been told that Mr. Cina passed away, but didn't quite believe it. I give Mr. Cina the credit for opening up a whole new world to me--that of classical music. I should have thanked him while he had still been around to thank. He pushed and pushed, but, my God, the result of his pushing. I hope to honor his work in me by pursuing my instrument again. Rest in peace, Mr. Cina.....

What can I say, I was very much saddened when I found out just today that mr. Cina passed away 3 years ago. I was trying to find him online and instead I found this. I wanted to visit him; maybe surprise him. He was a great mentor to me. He always thought I could be someone great and was always there to encourage me. I have many memories of him at lane. He was a great teacher. I could still hear him thumping through the corridors of the studios up there saying," Get practicing"! as he swung open the door. He use to scare me to death, especially if I was there just lounging around. He was very dedicated. He was like a second dad to me; he always watched out for me and if I didn't have money for lunch, or if he saw me at lunch time up there practicing he would say,"hey johnny here's a couple bucks go to taco bell and get yourself something to eat".A lot of times I'd say no thanks, but there were the times I was really hungry, so I would say yes and fill my stomach. I'd come back later and crush cans for him; and he was real particular in how he wanted the cans crushed. I wish I could have seen him again. The last time I saw him was in 97. I came up to visit him and to introduce him to my girlfriend who later became my wife. He hugged me for what felt like an eternity and said how he missed me, it brings tears to my eyes; to know that was the last time I saw him; so long ago. He told me to keep practicing and I said that I would. I give My love and appreciation for all the time he gave me. I played the viola and I sang. I was one of his librarians along with others. Now I will teach my daughter how to play. I hope I can do as good a job as he did, when he taught me. I will never forget him. Mr. Cina God bless you and keep you. Till we meet again. Thank You Mr. Cina. class of 94

What is there to say about Mr. Cina? He taught me how to tie a bow tie.
He taught me about camembert cheese.
He taught me how to make a living in music in Chicago.
He taught me how to enjoy yourself in the choir loft in-between the down time of a church service.
He taught me that, in a musical competition, the judge will choose a slow, well-performed piece over a flashy, poorly-performed piece.
He showed respect to his elder, Louis Frasca; he invited the well-known teacher Ghertzovici over to teach us, who once said, "Who thinks that your violin is not good enough to play?" Some kid raised his hand. Then Ghertzovici took the "poor quality" violin and played the Moto Perpetuo by Paganinni. "Sounds OK to me" he said.
The friends who knew Mr. Cina form an unusual bond of friendship; and all have been to his home over by the basilica for fun, knew his mother, his sister who died so young, his father and his brothers.
I would often cut class and hang out in the practice rooms "Up There" in the music studios. Mr. Cina never questioned me; as long as I was practicing, he would never report me.
He was very lenient with all the kids. One day, as Concertmaster, I jokingly said to all the orchestra; Why don't the girls get together and cook us some cookies for the concert. Well, the next minute I knew, I was surrounded by a group of girls, jokingly, who picked me up and carried me and dumped into the nearest huge green dumpster.
The last view I remember before being thrown into the garbage was Mr. Cina, looking at me, shaking his head as if to say, "Tsk, tsk. you will have to learn sooner or later."
Later that year when everyone got together to buy me flowers, and my homeroom teacher would not let me get them, Mr Cina went and got them himself from the teacher.
Oh well. There were so many good memories of the man.

There is a lovely rendition of Meditation by Thais performed by Erik Stolzer at the memorial service for John held in late June 2009. Goto

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nh7vfpW9ES0

Eventually, I will have the entire videotaped memorial service available to all whom were not able to attend.

All I can say is that I miss him, and that I wish he were still here.

As a former student of Mr. Cina, I enjoyed the excitement of being an orchestra student, of playing at orchestra hall in Chicago and experiencing the beauty of music in a dynamic way. He taught music appreciation, discipline and integrity. He gave us so much in 4 years that it will carry over for a life time.

When I picked up the recent Northwestern University monthly magazine, I was profoundly upset to read about John's departure from us.

How unfair it now seems that I could not get away from Houston to go to Northwestern's 40th reunion. It was my intention to see John again on that occasion. Up to that point, I could only tell my wife Carole stories about my college experiences with John and Jim Trapp: "You just wait; when we see John (and perhaps, Jim), he'll tell you all about it" -- but it didn't happen. But then after all, it really does no good to try to put into words what amounts to one of the very best times in a person's life.

In the mid 60's, we were the Three Musketeers of Northwestern University's School of Music -- John Cina, James Trapp and me -- Stephen Field (followed later by a fourth musketeer, Phil Laurensen). Who at that School did not know us? Perhaps very few. Who could ignore and not appreciate John's thoughtfulness, humor and kindnesses? None that I know of. John was the glue that kept us all together.

What friends we were!! What fun we had! From performances with choirs and orchestras to intentionally spinning Trapp's '65 Mustang, from one end of the icy Basilica parking lot to the other -- at 2 in the morning, with the top down, of course. Yes, there's a whole spectrum of memories that will always be a part of me; and when I get my chance to meet John again, we will have fun renewing them together.

No testimonial can do justice to John; certainly not mine. But to his family: Please know that John was a dear friend and an inspiration to many throughout his life. He continues to live in our memories and in our hearts.

My heart is heavy with this news, received belatedly during a websearch to contact John. We were fraternity brothers at Northwestern, worked together on University Orchestra staff, and best of friends. Sadly, procrastination and life's "busy" preoccupations delayed my attempt to make contact until this unhappy day.

The testimony is clear for John's heritage, living now in the lives of so many former students and memories of those who loved him.

What a shame to hear about Mr. Cina. He was such a great musician who never got the professional recognition he deserved. But he was an inspiration to a whole generation of students and his many “words of wisdom” still ring true today after many years. The high school experience would not have bee the same without his leadership of the orchestra. I’m sure all of his former students feel the same.
Gregory Steyer ‘81

I remember having an enormous amount of joy being a part of such a great orchestra at Lane. I loved the sense of community that orchestra gave me. Mr. Cina’s love and devotion to music, not to mention his expertise, has stayed with me and inspired me to seek music as a profession. Once in a while, I’ll be driving in my car and an orchestral piece will come on that is vaguely familiar. When I find myself humming the cello part I am transported to the wonderful times at Lane with Mr. Cina.
Christine Steyer ‘86

When I started at Lane in '87 I had no idea about the music department. I was singing barbershop music at a young age and always loved music. I was invited into the chorus my sophmore year (more like drafted- thanks Sasha!). The music department, for those who even knew it existed, was almost impossible to find- which made it a haven for all of the music students. We were a close knit bunch but without Mr. Rico and Mr. Cina it would have been just a class.

I began singing in the chorus but always wanted to play and instrument. I would hang around as the orchestra practiced and really enjoyed watching him conduct. He was an amazing musician and an even more amazing teacher. I could not afford to rent an instrument, he made sure I got one for free. I could not afford lessons, he made sure I had all the resources to learn- including himself. His amazing patience, kindness and generosity will always stay with me.

I will continue to tell stories of his antics, his rants, his jokes and his incredible talent as a teacher, musician and mentor. This is a true loss; he was like family to many of us. My deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

My condolences to Mr. Cina's family. I am a former music student (1975-1979) who was lucky enough to be involved in the orchestra as well as the musicals. I always remember him when I visit White Pines State Park and Loredo Taft's Blackhawk statue on the Rock River at Lowden State Park. He took a group of us there for horseback riding and hiking. Now, I go there with my husband and son, always grateful that I know these places because of Mr. C. Thanks for the memories.

John Cina kept me in school.
He truly changed my life.
I miss him very much.

John was my music teacher in 1972 at Tuley H.S. He was a great teacher and became a good friend. I remember visiting him at Lane while I was on leave from the Army. He was a good man.

I attended Lane Tech between '74 and '78 and fondly remember John Cina's dedication, love, and joy in being a mentor to each of his students. I learned to play violin under John's guidance. He had faith that each of us could do much more than we thought ourselves capable of. That faith brought out amazing things.

I still vividly hear the musical performances in my mind and remember with detail every piece of music that we played. He brought the music to life and life into his students.

I feel sorrow at learning of his passing. He put a lifetime of joy into the people he touched.

God Bless you! I'm sure that John's music is adding to the joy in heaven.

I was in the Lane Tech Orchestra under John Cina's direction as a string bass player in 1977 and 1978. Although I was not a music major, through John's dedication and patience (lots of patience), he gave me the foundation of a love of music that continues on to this day. In fact, I can say that involvement in the orchestra under him was a highlight of my high school years.

Thank you, Mr. Cina.

James and Jerry,
We have lived in the Sauganash neighborhood now for 16 years, and your brother was one of the wonderful neighbors who welcomed us and made us feel right at home. We would wave whenever we would pass by and he always had a smile for us. Being compassionate as he was about our neighborhood, it was a pleasure talking with him and just listening to his wonderful stories. We will miss him and may he be guided by the angels and may he always rest in peace.

Like many others, I will miss Mr. Cina's passion for music and life. He inspired so many of us and brought so many people together. I'll never forget how he drove downstate to come to my senior recital at U of I and how he once stayed all night to listen to my jazz trio as we played in my living room. His devotion to his art and "kids" will be missed. As a teacher, I only hope I can inspire some of my students like he did all of us

I had the pleasure being in Mr.Cina's music theory class in 1974-75, and I also played string bass in the Lane Tech orchestra for 3 years (75-78) under Mr.Cina, and played in the pit orchestra for some of the theater productions he produced. There are few people that you meet in your life that have a positive impact on you, and Mr.Cina was one of them. I'll never forget his professionalism, sense of humor, and the warm environment he created for all his students. Orchestra was the highlight of my day, and Mr.Cina was responsible for that.

After leaving Lane Tech, I received a degree in music, and returned to Lane as a young substitute teacher, and Mr.Cina was incredibly helpful to me. I was so over my head and intimidated by being back at Lane as a teacher, and Mr.Cina was incredibly generous with his time in helping me.

Thank you for everything, Mr.Cina.

I was fortunate enough to be involved in some way with the Lane Music Theater all four years of High School. 'JC' inspired us to do our best; because to disappoint, annoy, or otherwise cause him to YELL at you was a fate worse than death. He always treated his 'kids' as equals, and never talked down to us-probably because he really was an overgrown kid at heart.
I have many wonderful memories of time spent with him, on and off-campus. He will be missed.

John, you are missed so much. Thank you for the wonderful times we had together at Ken and David's house and at the Grieters. You were an inspirtation to so many. Please count me one of those inspired. Thank you for our special friendship. All my love, Jane

John was a good and gracious person who generously shared his gifts of music with others. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Rev. Dr. Anne Hoflen
Paw Paw Presbyterian Church

My two sons went to Lane Tech High School. They both played the violin. They started lessons when they were 3 and 4 years old. I have to say they probably hated their lessons and me for having them take the lessons. When they went to Lane, I insisted that they join the orchestra. That is when we met John Cina. He took these two boys under his wing and they flourished. Up to now they had had only female teachers which didn't help. They began to take a real interest in music. They decided that the orchestra room needed to be painted, old music needed to be filed, and just get in there and help Mr. Cina tidy things up. He would smile and let them do whatever they wanted.It was free help after all. John attended our graduations, birthdays and played the organ for our son Timothys wedding. He was very generous with gifts for the boys. One day someone rang the doorbell and left some magazines by our front door. When I answered the door there was no one there but I thought I saw someone lurking behind a parked car. I went in the house and told the boys. They both piped up "Its probably Mr. Cina". I never told him we saw him, but that was how he was. Didn't want praise or to be the center of attraction. Doing nice things for people and didn't want to be made a fuss over. I have many stories I could tell but it would take much time. The Newbold family wants to thank Mr. John Cina for his friendship and we will miss you.

Mr. Cina was my Orchestra Director while I attended Lane Tech. His extreme love and dedication to music and his craft was obvious to all his students at Lane Tech. I fondly remember Mr. Cina telling us we were "off key" with us playing only the opening note of the piece we were rehearsing. A music legend has passed...there will be no other to fill his shoes...Mr. Cina will be in our hearts and memories forever...

My two sons attended Lane Technical High School.Both boys had been taking violin lessons since they were 3 and 4 years old. I believe they hated those lessons. And then they went to Lane, where they met Mr. Cina. He took them under his wing and both boys began to flourish. They began to love violin. And for the next four years they took an interest in keeping up the Orchestra Room,which included painting, filing music and just keeping the place neat and tidy. He played the organ for my son, Timothys wedding. He came to our graduation parties, birthday parties and was always very generous to the boys. I was so glad they found a music mentor. I know they will never become great musicians but they have learned a good appreciation of music from John Cina. Another time, he dropped off some magazines at our house but didn't want anyone to see him. So he hid behind his car when he saw us coming out of the house. I saw a man lurking behind a car and told the boys and they guessed right away, "Its probably Mr. Cina"!!! He didn't want to be made a fuss over nor really want much recognition. We love you and will miss you greatly, Mr. John Cina.

I had the pleasure of growing up with John and attended St. Hedwig Grammar School with him. He was a womderful young man and truly lived a wonderful life. You, his fanily and John are in my thoughts and prayers.

It was my pleasure to know John when he visited David & Ken in Paw Paw. He was such an interesting and loving gentleman.

I met John a few times only, through his good friend, Ken. I will remember his remarkable sense of humor that one could not help but snicker at everytime and just join in on the fun. My condolences to his family and close friends.

We will always love you, our dear friend. Your music and your kindness is your legend, from which many will continue to enjoy and benefit. We will continue your legacy of music - sharing it by educating others in scholarship. Thank you for sharing the many houors of laughter, music and fine conversation. We shall see you some fine day.

I was one John's students during his first couple years at Lane Tech. He taught me how to be a real musician: show up on time and be prepared. He had a fine sense of humor and I often thought of him after high school. He came to hear me play at a restaurant once and asked the hostess to seat him as far away from me as possible because I was his ex-wife! I still laugh when I remember that. He will be missed here, but now the angels in heaven have someone new to pal around with. God bless.

HOW does one use words at a time like this? October/1974 moved into our home next door to CINA family home...35-years of being 'friends' and 'neighbor' to JOHN is chuck-filled with tons of memories...

#1--knew first day we met, JOHN and I had much in common---being 'church musician' myself until 1984...

#2--2002 in planning 'surprise' 50th Jubilee Party honoring my brother, Rev. John Witek,S.J., JOHN enlisted his friend/Soprano Eileen Berman to entertain with 'music par excellence' ...our family/friends will always remember your glorious music...

#3--year 2007: believe city 'demolishing' 6232 house next door to CINA home, was more than John's body,
heart/soul could withstand...our neighbors 'owe' JOHN much for the legal/financial fight & 'protest'
against city permit of sub-dividing one lot into two, then allowing building of two 2-1/2 story houses
'without' community approval...all our Keating neighbors 'thank you' JOHN CINA!!..

#4--as the wrecking ball 'began' JOHN dug up three rose bushes from 6232 & transplanted into my flower bed...but 2008 the area 'squirrels' breakfasted the new leaf growth...we didn't have John's garden stick standing next to newly transplant bushes as he has next door...

#5--2009: between chemo visits U.of C. hospital & Grieder family home, other day JOHN rang my doorbell all excited with news resting on my rear patio "Joan, the raspberry planter is out in back, bring the planter inside your garage this winter---it will be OK---and Joan. set it out again next Spring & never never plant the raspberry bush IN the ground"...yes, John and...thank you JOHN for your wonderful 'last gift' to us!...when brother Johnny soon visits home he and I will miss you at our patio August breakfasts & Christmas/New Year dinners...

#6--will save the hundreds of hand-written letters you wrote even at 3:00AM pouring out your troubled heart during the '2007' devastation at 6232, as proof of the political shenanigans YOU and our block suffered...

#7--our neighbors owe much to you and
now deceased neighbor FRANK GAYES for the 'new' city zoning preventing future 'more of the same' on our block...

#8--unable now to sing "STO LAT-STO LAT": translated--"may you live to be a 100-years"--your next 02/26 birthday--you forever will 'live in our hearts'...

#9--Slovak folk song: "dobru noc, ma mila, dobru noc, nech ti je, sam Pan Boh, sladke sni"---only wish I could sing again to you by phone!

...brother, Fr.John S.J. and I now pray each nite by phone for brothers JIM and JERRY that the LORD will renew their courage and strength in their period of mourning...

John playing at our wedding, May 26, 1973 at St. Francis Borgia. We heard him play at Queen of All Saints and knew that he was the only one for us.
What fond memories he gave us. Thank you and God bless you, John.

To James and Jerry:

You do not know us, but we were very good friends of your Mom and Dad, and were members of the Knights and Ladies of the P. R. C. U.with your Mom and Dad. We are sorry to hear of the passing away of your brother. To this day we remember the funeral Mass celebrating the life of your Dad and your participation in the memorial services. The music was inspirational and not easy to forget.

I am 95 years old and dependent on a mechanical chair to get around, so I will not be able to be present at the memorial services for John. You, however, will be in our prayers.

Maes (that's what we called him...short for maestro-rhymes with eyes) was a major influence in my life. Taught me how to ride a motorcylce. Took me on my first real camping trips (how I miss Quetico); taught me how to play bridge (Sundays...penny ante bridge followed by Lin's chinese food...every week); taught me to appreciate music; got me 'into' theatre; taught me to go my own way. All of which I still do to this day.
He is partially responsible for me choosing to be a teacher and drama coach.
I think about him every time I set up a tent, or listen to a musical, or coach my drama kids. I am very sorry to learn of his passing. He will be missed.

I recently had a conversation with a colleague where I teach math. Ironically, she plays bassoon, too. I told her about my Lane experience in Band and Orchestra. I told her about how many great pieces we played in Orchestra and she told me that she only had opportunity to play and perform that level of music in the Atlanta Youth Symphony. We played it every day. I am sorry to hear that Mr. Cina passed away.