Life… more or less

September 9, 2009

Yesterday was our first day back to life… more or less. The kids went to school and I went to my husband’s office to sort things out.

We made it through… but not without tears.

What seems to help the most.. is imagining Peter in heaven.   This hope of heaven we all have has never been more real for me.   I imagine him in perfect peace and perfect love. Perfect health too.  I know he’s spent plenty of time with his mother already and that he knows the answers to things he only imagined while here on earth.

Life without Peter seems so overwhelming… so steady me Lord and be my strength. Help me to comfort and guide my children as best I can.
Heal our hearts with your Love.

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3 Responses

  1. Amy says:

    Oh my Pati friend… praying that you and your children are surrounded in this hard place by the Father’s great strength, great grace, great comfort and great healing… so love you! I pray as you walk through your days, that it just washes over you… waves and waves and waves of it…

    Heaven… mmmmm… such a glorious place…

    That book that you got for Peter sounds wonderful! It sounded just like the description that I had read from a John Eldredge book called The Journey of Desire…. it forever changed my perspective of heaven… it’s going to be so amazing!
    Such a powerful picture of what this life is really about, and that it is truly a practice run…a rehearsal, so to speak, before the real deal!
    Makes me all giddy just thinking about it! Just think, you and me, we get to be apart of THE original worship team one day! Worshipping and playing along side the angels.. gracious what a sight that will be!

    Such a beautiful picture of what Peter is doing… so beautiful!
    And probably around the time he sits down to have lunch with Paul or his momma… you will be walking up to join him :) Isn’t that so cool?

    My sweet friend Noelle has terminal cancer, and we got that book for her.. she is LOVING it! I can’t wait to read it too! Thankyou for mentioning it!

    Love you so! A

  2. Kurt von Rice says:

    Pati,
    I just heard this news and it saddens my heart immensely to hear all of this. I don’t know if you remember, but you and Peter, years ago, sat in my living room and talked when he and I were both involved with the AAC. Our career paths took us in different directions, and perhaps I should have done a better job of staying in touch with Peter during the years, but I must say, I never had anything but good thoughts about your husband. Peter was always ‘top shelf’ in my book, and always will be. I have had my share of bad news the last couple of years and lost my father last August, so I know your life will never be the same, and it hurts me to know what you must be going through. I guess I just wanted to tell you that I always felt that Peter was one of the ‘good guys’ and God must have needed another one at his side right now. If there is anything I or my family can do for you and yours, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
    Sincerely,
    Kurt von Rice,
    AAC Past President.

  3. Stephanie says:

    Pati,

    I have been a patient of Dr. P’s for many years and went in today hoping he could squeeze me in. I was stunned and so sad to hear that he is gone. I’m so sorry for you all and can’t quite imagine the world without Dr. P’s positive, hopeful, and faith-filled presence.

    My very young children often ask if we can stop in to see Dr. P when we drive by his office. They remember him for his kind and funny ways — and his Donald Duck impression. He was so supportive and kind when I brought my daughter to him after surgery. And I know he was loved by many people…who considered him more than “just” their doctor.

    May God bring comfort to your family…I’m so sorry for your loss.

    Stephanie

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Video Montage ~ Peter Pakulis

September 6, 2009

My apologies…   due to copyright issues, the complete montage will not play with the audio.  However,  I have included 2 links that will play the montage for you in 2 separate parts: 

I would suggest you view it “unstretched” for better image quality.

Blessings ~ Pati

A Celebration of the Life of Peter Pakulis – Part 1:

<script type=”text/javascript” src=”http://widgets.clearspring.com/o/4805fc0db4a3562c/4aa40c004057c234/4805fc0db4a3562c/a4f2157d/-cpid/32b87cb898ea97e8/-/-/-EMH/240/-EMW/432/widget.js”></script>

A Celebration of the Life of Peter Pakulis – Part 2:

<script type=”text/javascript” src=”http://widgets.clearspring.com/o/4805fc0db4a3562c/4aa40bcbe0d2020d/4805fc0db4a3562c/a0adaa5f/-cpid/b50a9576398c232/-/-/-EMH/300/-EMW/540/widget.js”></script>

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A celebration of the life of Peter Pakulis – Kukas

September 3, 2009

In loving memory of An Exceptional Man ~ Peter V. Pakulis
A life well lived!
Husband, Father, Brother, Son & Friend
June 12, 1960 – August 28, 2009

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14 Responses

  1. Amy says:

    And WHAT a life!!! My goodness! A part of me is so so sad, Pati, that I never got to know Peter more. Wish that we would have done date nights and hung out more with our families.

    Beautiful beautiful collages of your honey! Beautiful love that you shared with him…. love you!

    You and your lovies have been so in my heart and being lifted up to Papa daily… can’t wait to hug you…

    Much much love,

    Amy

  2. It was an honor and a blessing from God to have been a part of Peter’s, Dr. P, Dr. Pakulis’s life. When I walked into his office 6 years ago, I had no idea God’s plan–and how Peter, you and the children would change our lives forever. Your photos tell the beautiful story of how he lived his life as a husband, Dad, and brother. He was always smiling, loving and enjoying life–Never complaining- I always loved hearing about the next book he had read and the parts he found most fascinating. Just his excitement of sharing. He was so brilliant. A tribute to a Great Man who we will hold forever in our hearts. We love you!! Clint and Johnnie

  3. These are all so great Pati. What a beautiful family you have. Peter’s legacy lives on through you guys. I see him in your kids so much! Love you friend. xoxo

  4. Lisa Mortensen says:

    Pati,
    These are great pictures of Peter, with family & friends. This is a beautiful collage & tribute of your husband. I went to school with Peter in Canandaigua. He was a great friend and had an infectious smile. My prayers are with you and your beautiful family.
    Love,

    Lisa Quayle Mortensen

  5. Sheila Turner Lischwe says:

    Dear Pati,
    I also went to high school in Canandaigua with Peter, and will always treasure his friendship. In addition to being a talented athlete and loads of fun, he was very compassionate. When my father suffered a stroke in the early 1980s, Peter visited him regularly during his recovery, and was a great source of comfort to our family. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your childen. He was a wonderful person.

  6. Pati, these are all so amazing. Your family is truly sweet and gorgeous!!! You all look so happy and in love. You are so blessed to have had him in your life. Thanks for posting these so we could all see what a special man your husband was. May his legacy live on forever!! xoxo

  7. Terry Asiala says:

    I have never met you or Peter, just prayed as one of the prayer warriors during his illness and now for you and your kids. My heart breaks for you and know that the Lord will hold you in his hand until you meet Peter again. I can hardly wait to get up with the Lord as I have lots of questions I want answered too! My thoughts and prayers are with you. Terry Asiala

  8. hey there i admire your website maybe you like my Cialis kaufen online blog

  9. Denise Bowman says:

    September 19, 2009

    Hi Pati,

    My name is Denise Bowman, we have met a few times over the years, I am Jerryd Bayless’ mom and I use to see you from time to time when we came to the office.

    I just found out about Peter’s passing and I am saddened to hear of your loss but I am joyous for the life that you and your family have shared with Peter. He was a good man and my family appreciated him very much.

    I know that Jerryd contacted Colin on facebook but if you need anything please feel free to contact me.

    Denise

  10. Betty Tencer says:

    The photos are wonderful and I thank you for sharing them. I am so sorry for your loss. Peter Pekuis was my chiroprator for about 10 years and I considerer him to be one of the best people I have ever known. He was always so giving of himself as a healer and good for a smile and a positive outlook. I will miss him dearly.

  11. Debbie Ward says:

    Hi Pati. I’m not sure if you remember me, but Mike knew you and Peter way back at Sun Valley Church. Our daughter Allie was born a year after Collin. My mom, Diane often went to see Peter. We were so heart broken to hear this news. You have done a wonderful job celebrating his life with your wonderful pictures of your beautiful family. Peter was a blessing to everyone he encoutered and you are strong and beautiful and will pass this on to your beautiful children. With much love, Debbie Ward

  12. Sorry to hear about your husband’s death. My thoughts are with you and your family. Bart

  13. Arthur Pena says:

    I believe I knew Peter when he lived in Geneva, NY. In fact, I think the picture of him swinging a baseball bat might be taken in front of my old house on Maxwell Ave. We played ball together. It must be him. Could you let know for sure? Did he live in Geneva at one time? I’ve been trying to find news of him for the past few years….

  14. Pastor Dave says:

    Dear Pati and Family,

    I’m so sorry for your loss. I just discovered the information today while searching for your updated contact information when I found an old letter from the both of you (9-9-2007). I know that I will see him again.

    In His Grace, Pastor Dave

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On August 28th ~ 2009

August 30, 2009

My husband Peter Pakulis went to be with the Lord. Our hearts are broken… but he is free.

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Arrangements have been made to celebrate Peter’s life.

Wednesday, September 2 at 10:00 am
Memorial Service
Grace Chapel Foursquare Church
8524 E Thomas Road
Scottsdale AZ 85251
480-946-3464

Cemetery Service
Valley of the Sun Mortuary and Cemetery
10940 E Chandler Heights Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
Phone Number: (480) 895-9232

Reception – Immediately following the Cemetery Service
The Springs church (the sign on the building says Desert Springs).
6135 W. Detroit Street
Chandler, AZ 85226
480.785.1850

26 Responses

  1. Lisa Quayle Mortensen says:

    Pati,Colin,Julia&Alyssa,
    I am so sorry to hear of your great loss. He suffers no more. This is extremely hard for all of you now and with the Lord’s strength and your faith each day, each memory will bring you closer to peace. May God watch over you and be with you all.
    My prayers and deepest sympathies are with you.

    Love,

    Lisa Quayle Mortensen

  2. Kris Pribadi says:

    Farewell, my friend, Dr. Peter Pakulis. You are on a good journey to the Kingdom of Light, where there will be “no more tears”. I want to thank you for your life of service and love to us, humble yet you lead by example, always encouraging and positive. You know Christ and are known by Him. I pray for His many blessings for your wife and children here, blessings of love and abundance of grace for years to come. Amen!

  3. Mary (Lahue) Murphy says:

    Pati, Colin, Julia & Alyssa, I am so sorry for your loss. Words are just so inadequate in the face of this grief. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  4. Pati, I’m so sad that I won’t be able to be with you at the services for Peter. I knew that would probably end up being the case. I leave for Vancouver on Wednesday morning but my heart will be with you my friend.

    In a totally separate note, I am loving your new blog and logo! Seriously so great.

    Love you my friend.

  5. Regina says:

    Sorry for your loss.

  6. Tonya Pruitt says:

    Pati, I am so sorry for your loss. I was a patient of Peter’s since 1997 and always found him to be a wonderful, warm and kind man. Colin was a classmate of my daughter’s in the 1-2 multi-age class, so I saw both of you occassionally at Milenio.
    One thing I know is that Peter loved his family; he always spoke of you and the children – he was very proud of all of you. I can’t imagine the emptiness you feel with his passing; I hope you see your wonderful children as a reflection of him and his love. If there is anything I can do for you and the children, please let me know.

    Tonya Pruitt

  7. Randi says:

    Oh Pati….I’m soo sorry…love you,
    Randi

  8. Smitty says:

    Pati, Jadon called Saturday to tell of Peter’s passing.
    Somehow, I was led to your blog. The beautiful pictures of your family, the feelings of love and faith that you express so wonderfully, and the kind words of friends have filled me with a sense of grief and sorrow that was so unexpected. Please accept my condolences for your family’s loss.

    The heart asks pleasure first,
    And then, excuse from pain:
    And then, those little anodynes
    That deaden suffering;

    And then, to go to sleep;
    And then, if it should be
    the will of its Inquisitor,
    The liberty to die.

    Emily Dickenson

  9. Dimitri says:

    Dearest Patti,

    I just found out about Peter’s passing! I am so sorry to hear about it but I know he is also free of suffering and pain now. He has been a very brave, courageous and wonderful human being. I will always remember him and his wide smile when seeing me or coming through the doors of our coffee shop. I will always remember that one evening, when, after working late (both of us), he invited me over his office for a bottle of cold beer and a bit of shooting the breeze. He always made me feel great!

    On behalf of my family and our crew here at The CoffeeBuzz, please accept our deepest condolences. Let me know if there is anything I can do.

    Dimitri

  10. Carol Schade says:

    Pati and family — my heart and thoughts are with you. I received a message from your sister and appreciate the notice. I will let those of us who grew to know and love Peter over the years know about the service.

    I know that your faith will help you through this. I know that it helped Peter — he never faltered in his faith even with the battle that he faced and we all hoped he could be the victor.

  11. Mario Mendia says:

    Peter always brought in a smile to his many friends at the Coffee Buzz next door to his office. We will dearly miss him…..and his smile. Our best to his wife and children who he was so proud of. He would always beam with joy whenever we talked about his wife’s music.

  12. Hi Pati. I originally read about your family on Melissa’s blog a few weeks ago and I did say a prayer for all of you. I was so sad to read of Peter’s passing. I’m so glad he is in heaven but I feel so deeply for you and your children. (((hugs))). I am praying for each of you to receive God’s overwhelming comfort during this time. God Bless You.

  13. Nancy Branch says:

    Pati, Colin, Julia, and Alyssa ~ You have all been in my thoughts and prayers constantly. My heart is so sad with yours. I pray that God will comfort you all and hold you so close that you can feel his heartbeat. Peter fought such a courageous battle and he glorified God every step of the way. I know God proclaimed “well done, thou good and faithful servant” when Peter met him face to face. What an amazing testimony and legacy he has left. I love you all and will see you all on Wednesday. Let me know if there is anything I can.

  14. Hilary says:

    I am so saddened by the loss of this special soul. I met him as my practicioner several years ago…but got to know him a bit over years in the Ahwatukee neighborhood. I didn’t know him well…in time…but knew him well in quality of time well spent. So sorry for his family’s loss. So happy at the gift he gave me and others! A gentle, special soul! May we all remember and carry on his legacy of health and kindness! Hilary Cummings

  15. Mike McAuley says:

    Pati , I knew Peter in High School and we had the opportunity to catch up a few times over the years . I feel lucky to have known him ! Peter was a special person and it is easy to see that his family is as well ! Peter always had a kind word and positive outlook no matter what the subject or circumstance . A rare man ! Please accept my deepest regrets and condolances for Peters passing . God bless Peter and your beautiful family !

  16. Tamie Gray says:

    Pati, My thoughts and prayers are with you and the children. My family saw Peter on several occasions, he had such a great gift. My daughter Rachel has attended school with Colin since Kindergarten. My prayer is for God’s loving comfort and peace be with you and your children. Tamie

  17. Terri Rolinger says:

    Pati- Mark and I just heard about Peter….we’re so sorry for your loss. Even though we’ve been out of touch for awhile many memories come flooding back especially as we look at the beautiful pictures of your family on this blog. We’re praying that today you’ll know His peace to the very core of your being and that the Pakulis household will be filled with the assurance of His love and protection. Love, Mark and Terri

  18. Stacey Hanzal says:

    Pati, on behalf of the Hanzals, we send our condolences. Peter was such an awesome man of God! He was passionate about life and it was very evident. Now he is face to face with the father and you can only imagine what Jesus is saying to him, “well done my good and faithful servant.” We will continue to be in prayer for you, Colin, Julia, and Alyssa. We love you
    Trent & Stacey Hanzal

  19. Susan Holzmann says:

    Pati and children – Norbert, Melanie and I are were saddened to hear of Peter’s passing. Peter was one of the kindest and loving men, not to mention a gifted doctor and we are honored to have known him. He loved the lord and he loved his family – it was quite evident. We wish you comfort.

  20. Darla Gray says:

    Dearest Pati and family –
    We prayed with you for God to let you keep your loved one with you here on earth, but God wanted him more. He must have been a wonderful father and spouse. The pictures are incredible. We will see your family united again in the life ahead. God bless you and keep you at this time in your life. All my love to you.

  21. Cate Roth says:

    Pati and your beautiful family – we both went to CA with Peter and have been following your journey ever since hearing about it at our class reunion last year. We just wanted you to know that Peter was always special, even way back then – his infectious smile was amazing and he was always so positive about life. The Class of 1978 will miss him and will honor him whenever we are together. You are in our thoughts and prayers, and we know your strong faith that you will see him again will pull you through. Please know that Canandaigua is thinking about you and that you are always welcome here. Love, Cate and Jim Roth

  22. Bob and Sue Marchiando says:

    Pati – Our sincere condolences to you and your family on Peter’s passing. We had been keeping up with Peter through Jadon and were deeply saddened by the news. We came to know him from our college days with Jadon and Anne. Peter is truely a special person, who welcomed us into the Canandaigua circle with open arms. We will always remember that smile on his face and that sincere “how are you?” Thank you for sharing your beautiful pictures. It brings out the Peter we all know. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. God bless you.

  23. Matt Smythe says:

    Hello Pati.
    I wanted to take a moment and offer my condolences on your loss. My mom and dad are Steve and Beth Smythe…my dad coached Pete in high school. I remember going to practices and games, and always being amazed at how much bigger-than-life the guys were. They were all like sons (or maybe little brothers is more apt) to my dad. As long as I can remember, it seems as though I’ve known Pete’s name… both mom and dad always spoke glowingly about him, his heart, his great spirit. At any rate, I just wanted to let you know that you and the kids are in our prayers.

    Matt

  24. Denny and Nora Reichert says:

    I met this special person 14 years ago when my back went out and I needed a miracle. I walked into his office on 40th Street and I was changed forever. Peter had a special glow like an aura around him. He was kind, intelligent,healing and made you want to be a better person. He lit up when he spoke of his family which made me respect him even more.
    I never thought he would lose this battle because we needed him here to make us all better folks but God clearly wanted him for bigger reasons. Our best to his beautiful Pati and the kids.

  25. Gisele says:

    Pati…I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My heart is broken and I cannot imagine how hard is for you and your family. I know can be difficult to accept it, but remember he is not suffering anymore and he will be looking over you all. All my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Please let me know anything I can do for you… Be strong and always have in your heart all the beautiful memories of him.

  26. Santos D. Felix & Nora E. Diaz says:

    My husband Santos, was a client of Peter. He always spoke so kindly of him. I met him once he came across as honest, caring, and warm.
    We do not have enough words to take away your pain. We also have had tragedies in our lives. I just want to comment on your pictures of his life and how full of life and love he was.
    When you are feeling like you do not understand the why….remember how many lifes he touched. Your family was
    so blessed to be a part of his life. May his memory stay close to all who knew him. God bless your family.

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From the heart….

August 17, 2009

I wanted to take a moment to thank my wonderful friend Melissa Jill for the family photos she recently took. I cherish her friendship and her photography is a truly a gift the Lord has given her to share with the world!

XOXO Melissa!!

To see the entire post go to: Pakulis Family Photos

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Well… as you now know, life has been back into high gear a bit! It’s been a very sort of surreal time for us. I continue to try stay focused on my family, my photography and certainly my faith. It is truly what sustains me.

I will simply say this… that even with our new situation, I continue to believe. Through this entire journey, I’ve asked many times, has the plan changed Lord? The answer that I always seem to get is that I am to continue to beLIeVE. So unless I hear otherwise…that’s what I do.

I beLIeVE!

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One Response

  1. Anonymous says:

    HI PATI,PETER AND FAMILY,
    ITS LISA (QUAYLEY) MORTENSEN, AN OLD HIGH SCHOOL CLASS FRIEND AND AN OLD FRIEND OF ANN MARIES. I'M HAPPY TO BE WRITING YOU AFTER ALL THESE YEARS BUT SADDEND TO READ OF YOUR BATTLES. WHEN SOMETHING OF THIS MAGNITUDE IS THROWN AT YOU, YOUR STRENGTH, FAITH, LOVE AND HOPE AS A WHOLE WILL HELP WITH EACH DAY. PETER I CAN PROMISE YOU I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AS YOU FIGHT THIS BATTLE AND I HOPE AND PRAY TO GOD THAT IN SOME WAY I HAVE HELPED YOU FIGHT THIS FIGHT. I HAVE BEEN PRAYING SO MUCH FOR YOU SINCE I READ YOUR STORY LAST NIGHT FROM YOUR BEAUTIFUL WIFE. GOD BLESS, LOVE LISA (QUAYLEY)

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