Theodore "Ted" M. Gapinski

Theodore “Ted” M. Gapinski, 84, passed away on November 14, 2016 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on March 4, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois to Fred and Dora [Eaton] Gapinski. He was preceded in death by his parents, parents-in-law, Neal and Kathleen Kimmel, brother-in-law, Jim Kimmel, foster parents, John and Beth Russell, an infant brother, Fred John, sisters Marie Hubbard, Myrtle Balestino, and Violet Mayfield. He is survived by two sisters Lucille Niedra and Francis [Richard] Anson, and a foster brother Jay [Anne] Russell.
Ted married Virginia Kimmel on June 19, 1955 in Morrison, IL. Together they have three children; Alan [Keni Fay], James [Ann], and Kathy [Tim] McGuire, 12 grandchildren, and 15 great grandchildren.
Ted moved to Princeton, Illinois at the age of 8 to live at the Swedish Covenant Children’s Home. Ted later lived with John and Beth Russell until his graduation from Princeton High School in 1950. Ted attended Western Illinois University on a football scholarship from 1950 until 1952. Ted served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He then returned to Western Illinois University where he met his wife, Virginia. They were married 61 years. Ted earned his Bachelor of Education Degree from Western Illinois University, and a Masters Degree and Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University.
Ted began his career as a teacher and coach at the Prophetstown Junior High in Prophetstown, Illinois in 1956. He was promoted to the Superintendent of Prophetstown Elementary School in 1961. In 1967, Ted became the Superintendent of the Forreston School District and retired after 32 years of service from the Forrestville Valley Unified School District.
A private family service is planned for a future date. In lieu of flowers or donations, honor Ted by supporting a child in need during this holiday season.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF TED GAPINSKI
1932-2016

That Man Is A Success
Who Has Lived Well, Laughed Often and Loved Much
Who Has Gained The Respect of Intelligent Women and Men
And The Love Of Children;
Who Never Lacks Appreciation Of The Earth’s Beauty
Or Fails To Express It.
Who Follows His Dreams And Pursues Excellence In Each Task
And Brings Out The Best In Others
And Gives Only The Best Of Himself.

~Taken from the Works of Ralph Waldo Emerson