Joseph Cech Obituary

Dear Family of Joe Cech:
I too took piano lessons from Mr. Cech in the early 50's when his studio was at 3737 W. 26th St. in Chicago, a buidling owned by my great uncle, Dr. Ernest Malter, who had his dental office in the same building. Uncle Ernie was very fond of Joe whom he always referred to in one syllable as Joecech. For years I heard him speak fondly and frequently of his tenant and friend. I was pleasantly surprised to see that he lived such a long, rich life, continuing for so long to enrich many generations of children musically. The obituary in the Sun-Times brought back a flood of happy memories. May he rest in peace.
Roberta Lesner Bernstein, Chicago, IL

Joe was my first piano teacher, way back in 1948. He came to the house on Saturday afternoon, just when I wanted to go out and play with my friends. But, mom's rule. May God bless him and his family.

Roy Odman, Oak Forest, IL.

My condolences to the entire family. I took ten years of lessons from Mr. Cech in the 70's and 80's. He saw me grow from a child whose mom dropped her off for lessons in our town to a young woman who drove herself from another town to her own lessons. Even when I stopped my lessons in high school (an extremely difficult decision I had to make), he opened so many doors for me. I had initially joined choir in middle school so that I could play accompaniment on the piano, but I also quickly developed a joy for singing and eventually took private voice lessons. My choir teacher in high school as well as choir directors at the University of Illinois and my voice teacher were always impressed with my musical knowledge, all I attributed to Mr. Cech. I later became a teacher and have been teaching English for 20 years. Being my beloved piano teacher, Mr. Cech was one of the teachers I had over the years who showed me what it takes to be a superior teacher. His influence on my life has followed me to this day and has gone beyond simply the piano and my love for classical music. I am lucky to have had you in my life, Mr. Cech!

Dear Doris, the positive impact Joe and his 'manager' Doris made in my life has never been taken for granted. I’m sending you all my strength, love and prayers. -- Fran Walker

You were the best piano teacher a guy could have asked for, and you pushed me when I thought I couldn't play anymore. You developed my love for classical music, and even after we parted ways, we remained good friends. You lived an amazing life, and I am so happy to have crossed paths with you. You will be sorely missed. Also, I promise not to "screw it up" ;)

Doris
I am so sorry to hear of Joe's passing.In our life we don;t always get to meet such fine people as Joe was, so when we do we cherish the moment.

I feel so blessed that I have know you and Joe and greatful that Gwen and I got to hear him perform when we met you for lunch earlier this year.

My God bless you at this time and Gwen is to pick me up for the funeral so I hope to see you on Friday.

I will greatly miss my friend

Thanks for teaching me how to make music. It is a gift that continues to enhance my life.

Joe, You always lit up hte store as soon as you walked in and brightened my day. I have missed your humor! You touched many lives and will truely be missed.
Kathy Rambo (From the Beautiful Music Family)

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

My Dearest Joe,
You were my sons teacher a wonderful friend to me. Our years together will be cherished. I will forever enjoy the memory of our lunches and trips through the Arboretum. Top down and loving life. Rest now.
With Love
Mari