Ray Pendzinski remembered as a friend to the community

 

By Tricia Goecks
Editor
POPLAR GROVE – Boone County lost a friend when Ray Pendzinski passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 22 of cardiac arrest.
He is survived by his children Brittany Ann and Jordan Ray; partner and best friend Jennifer Riley; mother, Rita Pendzinski-Corl; siblings Karen Stone, Gail (Rick) Kopacz, Lois (Howard) Prather, Dan Pendz...inski, Alan (Heather) Corl. He was formerly married to Krystal. Nieces and nephews, Kristin, Tony, Michael, Steven, Danielle, Drew, Grace, Ryan and Blake. Adored by, Patrick, Michael and Alexandra. Predeceased by his father Raymond Pendzinski Sr., and Step-father James Corl.

Pendzinski was known for his commitment to Boone County, constant smile, and confidence. A natural leader, Pendzinski sought positions in which he could make a difference in his community, whether it be serving the people of Boone County as an elected official, serving his brethren at IBEW Local 364, or leading the efforts of his fellow electricians in working on the Habitat for Humanity home, or helping with the Belvidere Boone County Food Pantry.

Pendzinski was running for an open seat on Boone County Board District 2. Other candidates in the race are Francis Eagan, Jeff Carlisle, and Karl Johnson. Pendzinski’s name will remain on the ballot for the Nov. 4 election. “If he wins, then his position would be considered a vacancy and the Boone County Democratic Party would fill his vacancy,” Boone County Clerk Mary Steurer explained. Voters can cast their vote now through Nov. 1 at the Boone County Clerk’s Office. Election Day for the mid-term elections is Nov. 4.

An electrician by trade, Pendzinski was a member of the IBEW for the past 19 years. Pendzinski served on the IBEW’s executive board from 2004 – 2007 and served a term from 2007 – 2010 as the union’s vice president. In addition, Pendzinski served as the IBEW’s press secretary.

“Ray was a good guy,” Tom Sink, business manager at IBEW 364 said. “He always had a smile on his face. He was a good electrician.”
“Local 364 mourns the loss of Brother Ray Pendzinski and extends their condolences to his family.”

Belvidere Mayor Mike Chamberlain remembered Pendzinski as a good friend. “He was a friend and colleague. He truly was a gentleman - which is rare in today’s world,” Chamberlain said. “I liked Ray a lot and he will be missed.”Chamberlain got to know Pendzinski as a colleague when they both served on Belvidere City Council. Pendzinski was the fourth ward alderman from 2007 – 2011. “Even if we had different opinions on a specific issue, we could always work together,” Chamberlain recalled.

 
“I worked for his campaign when he ran for state legislature. That was the first time I met him,” Boone County board member Bill Pysson said. “For a grass root person, he was so able and confident.”
Pendzinski ran against State Rep. Joe Sosnowski in 2010 in the State Congressional race for the 69th district. “"I am saddened by the sudden passing of this community leader,” Rep. Sosnowski said. “My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family."

Boone County Board Chairman Bob Wahlberg recalled Pendzinski as a kind man. “Everyone in the county has his family and friends in their thoughts and prayers,” Wahlberg said.

Funeral Service will be held at 10:30 am Monday, Oct. 27 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel) 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford. Burial in St. James Cemetery Belvidere. Visitation from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, October 26 at Fitzgerald Funeral home & Crematory (Mulford Chapel). Visitation will continue Monday morning from 9:30 until the time of service Monday. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Habitat for Humanity or the Belvidere Food Pantry.