Peter "Pat" James Relzda

Peter “Pat” James Relzda, 91, of Springfield, died at 3:17 a.m. on Saturday, July 30, 2005 at St. John’s Hospital. Peter was born on July 24, 1914 in Springfield, the son of Joseph and Marcianna Plauskaite Relzda. He married Frances LaRocca. He played professional baseball under the name of Pat Ralsh and was a baseball scout for the New York Yankees and the Chicago White Sox. He was a pitcher and broke several records during his baseball career. During the offseason he was employed by Pillsbury Mills. He then served in the U.S. Navy during WWII receiving the Asiatic-Pacific and Victory medals and then joined the Army Reserves. After retiring from the service, he was employed by Sangamo Electric and retired in 1979 from Peabody Coal Mine #10 after 35 years of service. After his retirement, he took great pride in the time he spent with his family. He was an avid sports enthusiast and loved watching and attending all sporting events. Peter was a charter member of Eagles Aerie 437, member of American Legion Post 32 and a former member of VFW Post 755. He was preceded in death by one son: Patrick J. Relzda, two brothers: Edward and Jack Relzda and one sister: Delores Mulhenbeck. Peter is survived by his wife; Frances of Springfield; one daughter: Marci (husband, Bill) Haines of Springfield; two granddaughters: Danielle Haines and Cristine (husband, Jeremy) Nation both of Springfield and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Cremation accorded by Cremation Tribute Center. Graveside Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 3, 2005 at Camp Butler National Cemetery where the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon will conduct military honors. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Hospice, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62702. The family of Peter 'Pat' James Relzda is being served by Kirlin-Egan and Butler Funeral Home and Cremation Tribute Center, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield.