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Sarah Szafranski Obituary

Szafranski, Sarah Therese beloved daughter of Mary Catherine (nee Leeson) and Ted Szafranski; dear sister of T.J. and Katie; dearest soul mate of Brian Phelan; cherished granddaughter of Edward and the late Lillian Leeson, the late Theodore and Lottie Szafranski; loving niece of Ray (Joanne) Szafranski, Barbara (Michael) Stance, Ed (Debby) Leeson, and Tom (Pat) Leeson; devoted cousin and friend to many. Visitation Friday, 3 to 9 p.m. Funeral Saturday, 9:15 a.m. from Lawn Funeral Home, 7732 West 159th Street, Orland Park, to St. Damian Church. Mass 10 a.m. Interment Good Shepherd Cemetery. Funeral info: 708-429-3200.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Feb. 7, 2008.

Memories and Condolences
for Sarah Szafranski

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Joann Pilarski

February 17, 2008

Dear Ted & Mary Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of Sarah. She is at peace now with Grandma & Grandpa. I have no other words to help ease your pain. God is watching over all of you. Joann Pilarski(Bill The Fireman's Wife)

susan zimmer

February 13, 2008

I would like to express my deepest sympathy. My thoughts and prayers are with your family in this very difficult time. May Sarah rest in peace.

Kelly Judge

February 13, 2008

I just wanted all of you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time I literally broke my heart when I heard the news...Sarah was such a beautiful person...so sweet. May god bless you all. You are in my prayers along with my families.

Michelle Labriola

February 11, 2008

Dear Szafranskis,
My condolences are with you at this very difficult time. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I used to babysit Sarah, T.J. and Katie. They were wonderful children and we had great times playing games! Sarah was such a sweetheart with a kind smile. I always will look back fondly on those memories.
Take care,

Al & Mary Nishimura

February 11, 2008

Mary & Ted,

It has been a long time since we've been in touch (Chicago Title days), but you have never been forgotten. My husband and I are so sorry to hear about your family's loss. Our thoughts are prayers are with you during this painful ordeal.

Mary (Barkhurst) and Al Nishimura

The Stearns Family Bill, Debi, Sara, Samantha and Brianne

February 10, 2008

We just wanted to extend our sympathies. We realize there are no words of comfort at this time, but hope that you are able to find a bit of comfort in the outpouring of affection displayed for Sarah. She touched so many hearts during her time here. You have much to be proud of.

Our hearts, prayers and thoughts are with you.

"To share often and much...to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Paul Sowa

February 10, 2008

Ted and Mary;
Carolyn, Jon and I are heartbroken over your loss and all of you are in our prayers. God Bless you all.
Love;
Carolyn, Jon and Paul Sowa

Jean Ferraro

February 9, 2008

I would like to express my sympathies to the family of Sarah's. My thoughts and prayers go out to you at this time. Know that Sarah is now looking down at you and she is with you in your hearts and in your memories.
May God Bless you and yours at this time.

Lee Labriola

February 9, 2008

Dear Mary, Ted, T.J., and Katie,
Each time I drive past your home, I say a little prayer for each of you. I remember your smiley Sarah playing out in front and waving to me when I drove by when she was a child. She was always polite and well-mannered. I hope that you, too, can keep those wonderful memories of her childhood foremost in your mind. That's what your heavenly angel would want. May God be with you and give you all that you need at this time. Our love, friendship, and prayers, Your neighbors, Joe and Lee Labriola

February 9, 2008

Szafranski family: Our thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. Steve, Chris, Nicole, Patty and Sarah Ochs

Joan Duddleston

February 9, 2008

My name is Joan Duddleston. My father, Vincent Mikolajczak, was the son of Josephine Osinski and James Vincent Mikolajczak. My dad had an Aunt Anna Szafranski who I remember very vividly from my childhood. My dad could always get her going. When I saw Sarah's name on the news, I then began to pursue family ties. On behalf of the Mikolajczak & Ochwat families, we all are sending our heartfelt sympathies and will keep Sarah and her family in our prayers. God Bless.

Cathy Buxton (Holmquist)

February 9, 2008

Dear Ted and Family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers as you face the terrible loss of Sarah. Ted, I imagine her to be like you, smart, thoughtful, thorough, and a delightful person with whom to work. I am so sorry for your loss.

The Williams

February 9, 2008

Please accept our deepest sympathies. Our heart goes out to you in this time of need. You are in our thoughts and prayers. When we heard about this tragic event, thoughts of sorrow and pain came to mind. God bless you and your family.
God is watching over your daughter now and will be your families guardian angel.

Theresa Frachalla

February 9, 2008

To Brian (her soulmate) and Sarah's precious family,

I don't know any of you personally, but wanted to extend my thoughts of sorrow for your loss. It's a shocking, unbelieveable tragedy. Stay strong and stay together. May all of your good memories sustain you and may you realize that Sarah would want you to be happy in the future. Live for her!

God Bless You and Keep You!
Sincerely,
T. Frachalla (Frankfort)

Laurie Vacco

February 8, 2008

Dear Szafranski Family,

I am so sorry and heartbroken for all of you. The only advice I can share with you is trust in God, cling to your family and know that everyone is praying for all of you.

With heartfelt sympathy....
Laurie,Becky,Nick and Jess Vacco

Linda Henry

February 8, 2008

I am very sorry for your loss.

Myrtis Caudill

February 8, 2008

Dear Szafranski family,

My heart is breaking for you at this difficult time. May the Lord of Heaven & Earth give you peace, comfort and understanding in the days ahead. My prayers are continuing for you. My heartfelt sympathy to the whole family.

Erin Williamson-Boers

February 8, 2008

Dear Szafranski Family:

I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.

Ernie Lamm

February 8, 2008

Dear Mary and Ted,
Although we never met your daughter I'm sure she was as sweet and lovely as her mother. I could always tell by your words that you were very proud of her. Please know that Vicki and I have you and your family in our prayers and may God bless your family in this most difficult time. May he give you the strength to find peace.

The Oak Forest Hurricanes Baseball Team

February 8, 2008

T.J.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time. No words can express how sorry we are but draw strength and comfort knowing that your friends stand beside you. May God Bless Sarah and your family.

Sophia Salem-Barton

February 8, 2008

Dear Ted and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
This is just so horrible. You and your entire family are in my prayers. God Bless

Kathy Butler

February 8, 2008

I am Janice Ramiszewski's friend. Although I didn't know Sarah personally, I am shocked and saddened by this tragic event. Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of your daughter. Your family and friends are in my prayers.

Leslie DeMichael

February 8, 2008

I met Sarah at Oak Forest H.S. in 2004 when my daughter, Lisa, was a freshman and Sarah was a sophomore. Sarah became a friend to Lisa in band. They shared many good times in band and as volunteers at Palos Community Hospital. I clearly remember Sarah's smile. May your reliance on the Grace of God sustain you and remain in your hearts as you travel on your road of life. It will not be easy by any means but "with God all things are possible". She is truly an angel to you all. Rest in peace, Sarah, and thank you for being a friend to Lisa.

February 8, 2008

We are so sorry for your loss. Your family is in our prayers.
Love, The Pinto Family
Rich, Doris, Ashlee, & Richie

Debra Foley-Dian

February 8, 2008

Dear Mary and Family,

We wanted you to know that the Foley family from Riverdale are all praying for you. May God bless all of you during this most difficult time.

With deep regret,
Mrs. John Foley, Susie, Paula, Debbie and John Foley

Jeanette&Marty Walsh

February 8, 2008

Dear Ted,Mary,Katie&TJ,
Our hearts and prayers go out to you.We hope someday the sun will shine for all of you.What a senseless tragic loss.
Love,

Sally

February 7, 2008

My heart breaks for your loss - though I did not know Sarah or her family personally I want you to know many in your neighborhood and all over the country will never forget Sarah. I will keep praying for all of her loved ones to be able to get through this terrible senseless loss of their loved one. God Bless all of you

Rosanne Domato

February 7, 2008

My heart aches for the loss of your dear daughter. No words can ease your pain but I truely know Sarah is in heaven. She and your family will remain in my prayers. God bless your family. I have many memories of your sweet daughter and siblings. Rosanne Domato (Miss Rosie former Acorn Library Librarian)

February 7, 2008

May your family find the peace and love needed during this trying time. God bless you and God bless Sarah. May you all find comfort in knowing that Sarah had many many friends.

MaryCarol Audy

February 7, 2008

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.

Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."

It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."

God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.

When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.

I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.

There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.

If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.

And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.

Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008

Jackie Barkauskas

February 7, 2008

Ted, and the rest of Sarah's family,

There aren't any words to describe the deep sorrow I feel for you on the sudden loss of Sarah. Words can't provide the comfort you need at this time. Although I never met Sarah I remember how proud you were of all of your children. I believe the Virgin Mary held her hand during those last moments so she felt no pain, only the arms of our Lord bringing her to heaven. In the meantime, I will keep Sarah and your family in my prayers and thoughts.

Patty (Farlow) Bertaut

February 7, 2008

Dear Mary Catherine, Ted, TJ, and Katie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. I know its been awhile since we have seen you, but I want you to know that our memories of Sarah are from all of our crazy summer family picnics. We are all going to miss Sarah's beautiful smile. All our Love

Vivian Davis

February 7, 2008

Dear Szafranski Family:
We have never met personally, I have only become acquainted with your daughter through the media. Despite that I feel compelled to tell you how hurt and saddened I am by the senseless death of Sarah. May the words at John 5:28,29 provide you will comfort as it has done me. Vivian D. Davis

Beth Graham

February 7, 2008

We're sorry about the extreme loss to your family. The Mid Michigan Mortgage Lenders Association - friends of Mike.

Mary Joost

February 7, 2008

My son, James, graduated from NIU with a degree in Finance this past May with Sarah. He said she was such a smart girl who never had a mean thing to say about anybody. It is hard to believe that such a remarkable young woman who had nothing but promise and hope for the future could be taken away so tragically. Please know that you, Sarah's family and friends, are in my thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. May God bless you.

Mandy R

February 7, 2008

Such a senseless act, such a beautiful life lost. May God be with the Szafranski family at this difficult time. Sarah is in a lot of people's thoughts and prayers.

Frank Carano

February 7, 2008

May God bless the Szafranski family during this sad time. Although I didn't know Sarah I'm sure she was a great person. I was a childhood friend of her dad. All of the Szafranski family and all of Sarahs friends now have a guardian angel watching over them.

Suzanne Kronenberg

February 7, 2008

Our prayers are with you all at this time of sorrow. The memories of Sarah's smiling face will always be with us all.

Tracy E

February 7, 2008

I am deeply sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ellen Moriarty

February 7, 2008

There are no words that can convey how sorry I am for your heartbreak. Know that my prayers and strength are offered for you at this time.

S Jackson

February 7, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family and the other victims families are in my prayers. May God bring your family peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Valerie, Bob and Bryan Porter-Keefe

February 7, 2008

Sorry to hear of your loss. We will keep you in our thoughts, hearts and prayers at this difficult time.

William Dillon

February 7, 2008

I was so sorry to here about your loss. Our prayers and thouthts are with you today. It is such a tragedy for for such a wonderful and beautiful young girl.

Kim Richardson

February 7, 2008

I'm so sorry for your tragic loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

L. G.

February 7, 2008

Though i did not know Sarah, it touched my heart and know you are in thought and prayer.

Sarah Woods

February 7, 2008

I haven't seen Sarah since high school but I can still remember her everlasting smile, good nature and warm heart. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones during this very tragic time.

D. Marie

February 7, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sorrowful time. Such a senseless end to someone so full of life. God Bless all of you.

Beth Nichols

February 7, 2008

Mary and Ted and family,

Words cannot express how terrible I feel for your loss.

My wish for all of you is that in time you can remember Sarah without too much pain and the joy of knowing her will comfort you in the future.

Carol

February 7, 2008

I am so sorry to hear about your terrible loss.

From our family to yours, God Bless

February 7, 2008

May we please extend our condolences on the loss of your beloved daughter. We hope your memories of her will somehow help to carry you through this unbearable time.

Donna Serafin

February 7, 2008

Szafranski Family:

So sorry to hear hear of the loss of your beloved daughter. She is in Heaven now rejoicing with the Lord. My prayers are with you for God's healing power. You are truly a wonderful family. We are sorry. Sincerely, The Serafin Family
(My daughter Jennifer used to play with Katie when they were in kindergarten together at St. Damian.)

Arlene White

February 7, 2008

Szafranski Family:

From our hearts to yours
Deepest sympathy and prayers.

mike maslanka

February 7, 2008

Dear Mary, Ted, TJ, and Katie,
There are no words we can think of to express all the emotions we feel for you. Just please accept our love and sympathy and prayers, and know that your whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. Love, Mike, Mary Ann, Rosemary, Michelle, and Nicholas Maslanka

Annemarie B

February 7, 2008

Dear Szafranski Family,
I did not know Sarah, but I knew Carrie Chiuso. I am so sorry for your loss and may God bless you during this difficult time. Sarah is with our Maker now and may He bless her always.

Dawn Andersen

February 7, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss of a life cut way too short. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mary Sue Kempton

February 7, 2008

There is little a stranger can do or say. Please know that you are in my prayers. Sarah sounded like a great gal with everything to live for. May God comfort your broken hearts.

Tinley Park Residents

February 7, 2008

Dear families of Sarah,

As a Tinley Park resident, I am/was deeply saddened about the tragic events that occurred. Please know we are holding you all near in our hearts, and continue to pray for your strength through this difficult time. Sarah sounded like an absolute wonderful, young lady - how proud you should be of her. We will continue to think of you. God Bless you all. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Tinley Park Residents

Ellen A

February 7, 2008

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

Lin The Williamson Family

February 7, 2008

Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this most difficult time. Our hearts ache for you and your family. God Bless You.

Randi Rexford

February 7, 2008

As a former employee of the Lane Bryant store in Tinley Park. My deepest sympathy you and her friends. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Jennifer (formerly from Naperville, IL)

February 7, 2008

My thoughts and prayers are with Sarah's family and friends.

ann gillio

February 7, 2008

I am so sorry for your loss. May God continue to watch over you in the coming days.
Ann Gillio
Oak Forest, Illinois

Marcie & Don Barnett

February 7, 2008

May God's peace be with you.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

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