Ewan William Pieczynski Education Fund

Andrew Pieczynski, 44, a resident of Chicago, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, June 5, 2019. He was born on October 24, 1974 in Winfield, IL to William and Margaret Pieczynski. Andy is survived by his loving wife, Antoinette Higgins and their miracle seven-month-old son, Ewan Pieczynski. 
 
Andy was beloved.  He was a loyal son to his mother, Margaret “Peggy” Pieczynski. He was a devoted brother to Jeanne (Jarrett) Stevens and Eddie (Leah) Pieczynski.  A proud uncle to Elijah and Gigi Stevens, as well as Luke and Marlee Pieczynski. He was a faithful friend to many and a respected businessman in the sports sales industry. 
 
Andy, like his father Bill Pieczynski, left this world far too soon. 
 
Andy, who was affectionately known as “Bison” had a heart as big as his stature.  He grew up in Wheaton, IL with his family. From the time he was a young boy, baseball was one of Andy’s greatest passions. He played little league baseball in the Wheaton Park District and then became a standout pitcher for Wheaton North High School.  He went on to the University of Kansas and as a redshirt freshman, was a member of the 1993 Jayhawks who went to the College World Series. Andy loved KU, but his passion for baseball led him to play at Brown Mackie Junior College in Kansas. After spending a year playing ‘JUCO’ ball he transferred to Illinois State University to complete his four-year collegiate baseball career. Andy spent his summers playing on collegiate summer baseball teams.  His passion for the game transferred to his younger brother as they eventually became battery mates. The connections he created from the game manifested into friendships that have lasted a lifetime. Baseball, like many sports, creates a bond amongst teammates and coaches that transcends the time spent together. While his time was cut short, the friendships he shared provided an opportunity to live life to the fullest.
 
Andy is described by his friends as someone who everyone wanted to be around. He was a man you could always count on or call for advice in a time of need.  He had the biggest heart and a contagious laugh. As one of his friends said, “when I hugged that man I just knew it was sincere.” His deep love can be seen most prominently through his relationship with his wife, Antoinette and their son, Ewan. This past year they were blessed to welcome baby Ewan into this world. Andy was born to be a dad. He gave all of his love, affection and attention to their newborn son. 
 
Andy not only loved being a dad, he also loved being Bill and Peggy’s son. He had a deep and defining relationship with his father, Bill as well as a special relationship with his mother, Peggy. After his father passed, Andy stepped in to help with all of the details and demands that his father had once carried, loyally and faithfully loving his mother through such a difficult and daunting time.
 
Above all, Andy Pieczynski was a good man. A devoted husband. An exceptional father. A loving son. A loyal brother. An outstanding uncle. A dedicated co-worker. And an amazing friend. His goodness reverberates throughout all who were blessed to know him. He will be deeply and sorely missed.
 
A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 9, 2019 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. 
at Hultgren Funeral Home (304 N. Main Street, Wheaton, IL). 
 
A memorial service will be held Monday, June 10, at 1:00 p.m. 
at Parkview Community Church (764 St Charles Rd, Glen Ellyn, IL). 
Interment will follow at Wheaton Cemetery (1209 Warrenville Road, Wheaton, IL).