Walter John Pentek

Walter was born in Chicago’s Southside at Illinois Central Hospital on October 1, 1936. He attended Myra Bradwell School, Chicago Vocational High School, Chicago Teachers College BE, and Chicago State College MA. Most of Walter’s family is resides in Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana.

Walter lived on Saint Simons Island for his retirement years and was married to his beloved Janet Lee Wright Pentek. He taught Business Education at Christian Fenger High School in Roseland. He also taught geography, World History, and Macro\ Micro Economics at Thornwood High School in South Holland. He also taught geography at Indiana University Northwest, and Saint Joseph’s College in East Chicago.

Walter was a Boy Scout, in the Order of DeMoley, and Illinois Geographical Society. He shook the hand of Sir Edmond Hillary, was a Mason and Shriner. He taught boating skills and seamanship as a Public Education Officer in the United States Coast Guard for 18 years.

Playing the drums with his paternal brother in the Shriner Pipe and Drum Band was something Walter really loved. The Pentek brothers took first place in competition. Sailing his 31ft hunter sloop, “Weatherly”, was another passion.

The Pentek family motto is:” Sivivitas”-(We Served). This father and his two sons served with honor. Peter Walter Pentek, Walter’s Father, was an immigrant from Europe, WW1 survivor, and the best person you would want to meet. Walter’s younger Brother, Robert served in the US Air Force and Walter himself served in the US Coast Guard Auxiliary, National Guard and then went to active duty with the 33rd US Army Infantry from Illinois.

Walter was a grateful citizen of the United States of America. His parents and country gave him a good life and he was eternally grateful.

Walter's life will be celebrated with a graveside service on Friday, January 20, 2023 at 9:30 am in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.edomillerandsons.com for the Pentek family.