Henry Brzezinski

Henry "Hank" Brzezinski, age 86, Iron River, MI, passed away Wednesday, July 11, 2007... four days before his 87th birthday. Henry was born July 15, 1920 in Caspian, MI. The son of the late Frank and Monica (Prawdzik) Brzezinski attended the Bates Public Schools and graduated from Iron River High School in 1938. Henry enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and was a decorated soldier, having fought in both the European and Pacific Theaters of World War II. Henry retired from the Marine Corps during the Korean War as a Major in 1958, having served his country for 20 years. While a Marine Captain, Henry married the former Harriet Erickson in 1946. The couple celebrated their 60th Wedding Anniversary in 2006. They raised two sons while in the military. Ted was born in Hawaii and Rodger was born in Quantico, Virginia. Mr. Brzezinski earned both a Bachelor's and Master's Degree at Northern Michigan University. After college, Henry taught middle school classes for the Stambaugh Public School System. Hank was fondly referred to as "Mr. B" by his students. Henry retired from teaching after 15 years. Hank will be remembered as being a hard working outdoorsman. Hank and his sons built their family home as well as multiple hunting retreats. Hank enjoyed his minnow business, taxidermy, making maple syrup, oil painting, deer hunting, and walleye fishing. He loved bringing family and friends together in all of his pastimes. Hank enjoyed reading and storytelling. His favorite listeners were his grandchildren and students. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Dr. Edward Brzezinski and Walter Brzezinski, and one sister, Helen Mr. Brzezinski is survived by his wife, Harriet Two sons, Ted (Sally) Brzezinski of Green Bay, WI Rodger (Chris) Brzezinski of Gladstone, MI One sister Ann Kurek of Chicago, IL Six grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren Visitation: Friday, July 13, 2007 from 12:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River Funeral Services: Friday, July 13, 2007 at 2:00 p.m. at Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River, with Rev. Matthew Norlen to officiate. Interment: Resthaven Cemetery, Iron River, MI, Full Marine Military Rites will be accorded. Funeral arrangements by the Jacobs Funeral Home, Iron River.