Lincoln-Way West Band Director Steve Nedzel Dies

Steve Nedzel, the Lincoln-Way West High School band director, died shortly after 1 p.m. Friday, friends close to the family said. He was 32.

Members of the West band were informed at 5 p.m. According to an employee at Lincoln-Way District 210, Nedzel suffered head trauma from a fall as he was going to his apartment in Chicago on Tuesday morning.

He is survived by his brother and his parents. A memorial service has not yet been set.

According to the Lincoln-Way West Music Boosters' website, Nedzel directed the Wind Symphony, Marching Warriors, Pep Band and Percussion Ensemble. He also taught Music Technology I and II classes.

Before coming to West in 2009, Nedzel was the assistant band director at Lincoln-Way Central for eight years. He directed the Wind Symphony, Symphonic Band, and Pep Band, taught Music Technology, Piano, and Guitar classes and also assisted with and wrote drill for the Marching Knights.

According to the website, Nedzel grew up in Palatine and attended Fremd High School. He received a bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Illinois and completed his Masters of Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in 2005 and his Masters of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Northeastern Illinois University in 2009.

Friends and students of Nedzel's began to share their memories of the beloved music director with New Lenox Patch.

"You meant so much to so many. You will be missed as a teacher, role model, instructor and friend. Rest in peace Mr. Nedzel." — Bailey Naughton, via Facebook.

"Mr. Nedzel was the most passionate, dedicated band director I have ever met. He taught his students the importance of pursuing excellence and it showed every time the band played. He was a wonderful role model and mentor. He will be missed immensely. He now goes on to play beautiful music in paradise." — Mary Leahy, via Facebook

"You were a fantastic teacher and touched many lives. You were nothing less than a supportive, encouraging, and helpful colleague to me. My condolences to all of Steve's colleagues and students, both past and current. He will be missed."  — Stephen Cannon, via Facebook

If you knew Mr. Nedzel and would like to share memories, please call editor Michael Sewall at 708-203-4925 or write them in the comments below.

Check back to New Lenox Patch for more information.