Edward Pawlak

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing on October 10, 2024, of Dr. Edward John Pawlak, Ph.D., a beloved professor, dedicated family man, and lifelong community servant.

Born on October 28, 1937 in Detroit, Michigan, Edward spent his life fostering knowledge, compassion, and service. He earned a Bachelor of Philosophy, magna cum laude, from the University of Detroit, a Master of Social Work from Wayne State University, and, in 1972, a Ph.D. in Social Work and Social Science from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Ed devoted his life to teaching and mentoring, spending the bulk of his academic career at Western Michigan University, where he was a cherished professor and mentor to graduate students in the School of Social Work for 22 years from 1978 to 2000.

Edward authored more than 20 publications, including the book entitled Designing and Planning Programs for Nonprofit and Government Organizations. Eschewing the ivory tower of academia, his work drew from his early career experiences working with community organizations in inner-city Detroit providing services to families, juvenile offenders, and troubled youth in schools. His commitment to achieving social justice and to improving the lives of others left a indelible mark on his students, colleagues, and the community.

In his personal life, “Fast Eddie” was defined by his love of family. He was a devoted husband to his wife of 64 years, Maureen, whose unfailing support, encouragement, and love were the cornerstone of his life. Together, they built a beautiful family that was the source of his greatest pride and joy. Edward is survived by his sister, Sylvia, and his children and their spouses, Margaret (Donald), John (Alma), Brian (Beeda), and David (Biljana), who have been inspired by his legacy of kindness, gratitude, personal discipline, and unwavering integrity. His ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren brought him tremendous pride, and he was known to them for his wisdom, patience, majestic singing voice, Scrabble prowess, grandpa-jokes humor, and endless support.

Beyond his professional and familial accomplishments, Edward was deeply involved in his community and a dear neighbor and friend. He was an advocate for those in need, always seeking to uplift others through his volunteer efforts and exceptional neighborliness. An avid reader, and amateur etymologist with a passion for excellent writing, he was always quick to lend his talents to help others improve, be it a youngster’s homework assignment, a Ph.D. dissertation, or community service grant proposal. His impact on the lives of many, based on countless simple and engaging day-to-day interactions, will be remembered as a testament to his jovial spirit and generous heart.

Dr. Edward John Pawlak will be profoundly missed by all who had the opportunity to know him, but his legacy will carry on through the many lives he touched throughout his lifetime of teaching, service, and good-natured support for others. With heavy hearts, we send off our dearest Fast Eddie with one final “Big Polish Bear Hug” like he so often extended to others.

A celebration of Edward’s life will be held at a later date in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Seita Scholars Emergency Fund which supports Western Michigan University students who have been part of the child foster care system. Donation link: https://secure.wmualumni.org/s/give?funds=sfos%20sjss%20edss%20epln%20ercs%20psss