Ross H. "Ross P" Pawlak

“Oh, Ross. My dear friend. This is so not my thing, writing to you here. But I need to. Say it. All. And writing is our thing.

I cannot stop thinking that I am so blessed to have had you in my life. To care for you, to care for your family as you did mine. You were ever learning and always sharing and I am so lucky to have been a recipient of your wisdom and affection.

You taught me so much that truly shaped my life, my education of the world via Ross P. You gave me my very own unique 20 year degree in coolness: a literary, an artistic, a political, a historical, a spiritual education. But especially musical. Every instrument you played, every word you wrote, every rhyme you spoke, you became that art, it was purely born of your creative brilliance. It was always inspiring to witness whether in a crowd or a small huddle. You taught me damn near everything I learned about hip hop after age 15 and you were always sending me amazing rock and metal albums because you always knew exactly what I would like. This is just the type of friend you are.

No matter where we moved or how we changed as people we always stayed in touch, even if only through letters and care packages. Even if you did not know it, this helped me through some hard times. We would send each other 10 page letters along with the most random and wonderful trinkets: from mix cds (that's right, probably even mix tapes at the start, haha) and photos to garbage pail kid cards and fantastic 80s movie soundtracks. This is just the type of friend you are.

My friend, you had your struggles like the rest of us, and you always stayed strong. Everyone you loved, you loved so genuinely and generously, and we all adore you just the same.

I am also so very glad that I got to stick around to see the man that Heidi brought out in you, the way you told me about how much you loved this woman, and her son like your own, you were completely enamored and inspired by her. You later told me that she saved you. (and for that, Heidi, I will be forever grateful to you.)

As we continue to mourn our friends and family we have lost before (April, Luke, Dad, all) it comforts me that you're with them now.

Ross Pawlak, my friend my brother, my darling, the world is a shade darker without you in it, but the love and wisdom and kindness you were always bestowing upon those who love you, will forever be where you cannot. I love you and miss you, now and always.”

~ B-Rizzle

Ross is survived by his mother, Michaelene; sisters, Natalie Hansen and Maureen Pawlak; niece, Cadia Rose Hansen, fiancée Heidi Castle; and her son Mason Faussett; and aunt, Alicia (Michael) Needham. Many cousins and friends also survive. Ross was pre-deceased by his sister, April. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ross’ name may be directed to Michaelene Pawlak in care of Muehlig Funeral Home.

Please share a memory of Ross on his on-line guestbook.