Casimir “Cas†Paprocki, a man of faith, service, and family devotion, passed away peacefully at his home, on March 14, 2026, at the age of 91. He was a loyal and devoted husband to Cathleen (O’Donnell) for over 55 years.
Born on March 6, 1935, in Steubenville, Ohio, to the late Stanley and Eleanor Paprocki, Cas spent his life building a legacy of hard work and loyalty. A 1952 graduate of Steubenville Catholic Central, Cas followed his passion for aviation to Pittsburgh Aeronautical Institute where he earned his Airframe & Powerplant License. His expertise led him to his service in the United States Army. He served from 1958 to 1960 and was recalled to service from October 1961 through mid-1962.
Cas began his career with Capital Airlines in 1955, staying through the merger with United Airlines. He worked at United for over 47 years when he earned his well deserved retirement in 2002 as a Lead Mechanic. Beyond the hangar, he was a staunch advocate for his peers, serving as an Assistant General Chairman for the International Association of Machinists Union for many years.
Cas was a man of steadfast conviction. A devout member of St. Theresa of Palatine, his faith was in action through his 60-year tenure with the Knights of Columbus, where he was elevated to a 4th Degree member.
Cas was known for his kindness, steadfastness, loyalty, hard work for his family, friends, and loved-ones. Cas was always willing to help, loved working with his hands, fixing things, projects around the house and thoroughly enjoyed good food. He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and attending many of their events.
Visitation will be Friday, March 20, 2026, from 4-8 PM at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Hwy., Palatine. Funeral Saturday, 10:30 AM from Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home to St. Theresa Catholic Church, 455 N. Benton Street, Palatine for Mass at 11 AM. Luncheon will follow. |