Russell Witek Obituary

Russell Brent Witek entered heaven on March 29th, 2009. His final days were spent surrounded by family and friends singing, remembering, laughing, and crying. He was born on June 16th, 1994. Russell's life would seem to too short to many, but those who were touched by Russell understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. His gentle smile could melt the hearts of those around him. His quick wit would even catch the treatment team off guard. Diagnosed with leukemia the day before his 4th birthday and then with a brain tumor a few weeks after his 13th, Russell has had what most people would call a rough life. Most people except Russell. During his five years of treatment, he faced some of the most painful and unpleasant conditions and procedures humans ever experience with almost never a complaint. Russell riveted all who came near him with his courage, patience, and of all things, inexplicable grace. With his courage he led us to believe that each day is a blessing and an opportunity to create lasting memories. He could spend hours working on his Carepage memory book or hanging with friends playing Wii. He was quite the hugger and his hug would make a lasting impression. He enjoyed music, doing art, dogs and anything history related. He loved hanging with the Northwestern University Mens Soccer Team and celebrating after their games. With Russell's passing we remind others that his life is one to be celebrated. Although we will miss him every day, especially his winning smile, he will forever remain in our hearts. Through his teachings about life, we were able to create wonderful memories and it has been a privilege to be his parents and brother. Russell's life crossed paths with many wonderful doctors, nurses and hospital staff that helped provide love and comfort during his stays in Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago. We are quite blessed to have such a caring team of people that would help us in any way during our stays, especially in his final days. Russell is survived by his loving parents, Brian and Karen, and brother Garrett of Geneva, IL; paternal grandmother Donna Witek of Downers Grove, IL; maternal grandparents Dan and Helen Dennett of Downers Grove; and many uncles, aunts and cousins on both sides of the family. He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather Joseph Witek. A visitation will be held from 3:00 to 9:00 pm Thursday April 2nd, 2009 in the chapel at Christ Community Church, 37W100 Bolcum Road, St. Charles, IL There will be a short visitation on Friday morning, April 3rd from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm, followed by a celebration of Russell's life at 1:00 pm in the church auditorium. Services will be web-cast live at www.conleycare.com and later available as an on-demand video. An ice cream social and fellowship time will follow in the youth Hub. All of these events will be held at Christ Community Church 630-485-3300 www.ccclife.org. Arrangements entrusted to Conley Funeral Home, Elburn. 630-365-6414. www.conleycare.com. In honor of Russell his family asks that you wear anything that has a Cubs logo or your favorite sports team, anything blue or anything with a picture of a dog or animal on it to any of the services. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to: Camp One Step at a Time 213 W. Institute Place Suite 209 Chicago, IL 60610 Camp Sunshine 35 Acadia Rd. Casco, ME 04015 Children's Memorial Hospital 2300 Children's Plaza Chicago, IL 60614 Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Donor Services PO Box 4072 Pittsfield, MA 01202 Living Well Cancer Resource Center 1803 W. State St. Geneva, IL 60134 Ronald McDonald House 622 W. Deming Place Chicago, IL 60614 Russell Witek Leukemia Fund 643 McKinley Ave. Geneva, IL 60134