Dr. George Slezak
Dr. George Slezak, passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 19, 2019 at the age of 94. He was a true gentleman and lived his life with humility and respect for others. He had a great sense of humor, never treating life more seriously than it needed to be, despite his professional demands.
He was born to Gustav and Vlasta Slezak in Chicago, IL on March 25, 1925, raised in Berwyn and eventually Western Springs, IL along with his brother Roy. They had a fun Bohemian-style extended family that shared many laughs and love (George’s elder, Aunt Blanche still refers to him as “Baby Georgica”). After graduating from McClure Jr. High and Lyons Township HS, George served in WWII as a front-line medic in France. He graduated from University of Illinois and went to medical school in Chicago where he met nursing student Donna Joyce Pitsch, a cowboy’s daughter from Garryowen, Montana. Donna was as beautiful inside as she was outside and they both embraced each other’s families. George and Donna married in 1954, started a family while George was doing his medical residency in Detroit, and then moved to Western Springs in 1959 where they raised 5 kids; Brent(Sheryl), Gretchen(Ron), Alison(John), Lisa(Steve), Braden(Elizabeth). George and Donna made many great friends and provided a welcoming and loving home that was a hub of activity and celebrations, all while George enjoyed a 40-year career as a General Surgeon and Chief of Surgery at LaGrange Memorial Hospital. “Papa George” got his greatest pleasure spending time with his 24 grandkids and great grandchildren, and also enjoyed playing cards, photography, fishing, traveling, and golfing. George supported Donna with grace and dedication as she suffered through Alzheimer’s which ended her life more than 20 years ago. In 2008 George moved to Plymouth Place where he stayed active and continued to enjoy his time with friends and family. He was a loving father and a great example to us. A memorial service will be held at the Presbyterian Church of Western Springs (5250 Wolf Road) at 2pm on Saturday June 29, 2019. For additional information call Hallowell & James Funeral Home at 708-352-6500 or hjfunerals.com
Alison,
Very sorry for your loss. Your dad seemed like a special man. Cherish your memories of him.
My sincere love and prayers are with you all through this time. I mostly remember uncle George and aunt Donna went much to my surprise mom and dad let me fly across the country and spend the summer. What magical moments and memories I still have. I. Will always remember that special time.
This man was full of grace, dignity and love. Always warm, always friendly, always in the center of his wonderful family’s life. How we loved this man. And always will. Condolences to the family.
Dr. George Slezak: It was a privilege to be his pastor and friend for 30 years at the Presbyterian Church of Western
Springs. George was a faithful member of the church. In addition we were tennis partners for many years on Monday evenings. He was a fun player and that also was a joyous time.
When Donna began her long journey George was a dedicated caregiver through the difficult transitions. Donna was a beautiful person and among one whose diagnosis and struggle first startled, then saddened us and George was attentive in every way.
I also remember fondly his parents as members of PCWS, Vlasta and Gustav. There is a rich heritage in this wonderful family.
Braden,
What a class act your father was! A wonderful example of Christian love and such an honor to have leading your family! Blessings to you and yours. Sending warm hugs!
Dr. was the most kind, gentle and caring man I have ever known. I was privileged to work for him for many years. He will be missed. Condolences to his family.
I am a bit behind time but I knew George when I lived in Western Springs and also went to Lyons Township High School. I lived nearby the Slezak’s house and was a very good friend of his brother Roy. Roy and I were high school tennis doubles partners and we were roommates when we both went to the College of William and Mary in Virginia. George and Roy both went of the University of Illinois for their medical training whereas I went to the University of Illinois law school for my legal training. I am now 91 years old and live in California. Both Roy and George were great guys and great doctors.