John Padjen Obituary

I was a student at new trier west high school class of 70 John was my phys Ed teacher he was a class act and a wonderful teacher he was tough on us but we needed that so sorry to hear of his passing my sincere condolences to his wife and family I am proud to have known him my name is Bill Nash

John was my advisor at NT High School. He really cared about all of us, everybody knew and felt this. He was a wonderful teacher and an even better man. RIP Padj.

Mr. Padjen was my advisor through High School. Going through the most difficult time of my life, I don't know what I would have done without his support. He was unconditionally kind and stuck up for me. I was fortunate to bump into Mr. Padjen with my wife many years later. He took the time to write a beautiful letter to my parents after that meeting. John Padjen you made such a difference in my life. With Love & Gratitude Always.

To the Padjen Family, especially Lana & Joe,
Your father was a guiding light to my future as a youngster when I played football and he coached the Thornton Fractional HS team in 1959. The football team included both North & South HS's, our last year in the Chicago South Suburban League. Without his guidance my life would not be what it is today. I'm so fortunate to have shared time under his tuteledge, followed by a year of football @ NMMI with his brother Nick. My most sincere condolences to your families.
George Bohlin
Ogden Dunes, IN.

John (Papa) Padjen was my grandfather. He was the most generous man I've ever known. I am what I am today because of him and my grandmother Elizabeth. I miss them very much. Anyone wishing to reach out or wanting to share a story, I can be reached on FaceBook.

John Padjen was one of my best friends at New Trier West High School. He had the knowledge of an athlete and the needed sensitives as a department chairman. I have never forgotten how kind he was to an advisee growing into manhood when he arranged for him to be the swimming team manager. We often attended "Us, Too" meetings together when he was fighting prostate cancer. He had a beautiful sense of humor. a big dmilr, and time for everyone. His passing leaves a hole in the heart.

John and I enjoyed carpooling to our teaching jobs at New Trier high school with his son, Joey. We would talk about sports, especially football at the University of Michigan where he played football and I played baseball. He picked up my daughter at the airport when I could not. He mourned the death of my wife with me with his attendance at her funeral in 2005. He celebrated the wedding of my grandson with his attendance at the wedding in 2006. We communicated by phone when it became difficult for us to see each other. I will miss him and his friendship.

Lana, My deepest sympathies to you for the loss of your father.

Paul,
Please accept our deepest sympathy. We are sorry for your loss.