Michael L. Pandzik (Navy Cap’t, ret) passed away on November 7, 2022. He had lived bravely through 3 previous cancers but lost the battle with the 4th. He was loved by many, but none as much as his wonderful family. He is survived by his wife of 21 years Cary Danielson Pandzik, his son Alex Pandzik (Rachael) and daughter Emily Pandzik. Stepchildren Eric Danielson (Allison) and Julie Danielson (Chris Clements) and his 3 precious grandchildren, Hank, Josie and Teddy Danielson.
Michael was born in Corpus Christi, TX in 1945 to George and Peg Pandzik. He and his siblings, Susan Pieper, Barbara Hibben and James Pandzik, traveled the whole United States with their father, a Naval officer, until finally landing in Beatrice, Nebraska. Michael graduated from Beatrice HS, went to on get an undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska and a Master’s degree in theatre from the University of Kansas.
Michael founded the National Cable Television Cooperative in 1984. It grew to be the 5th largest cable company in the US and continued to flourish after his retirement in 2006.
Michael’s passions in life were motorcycling and travel. He was stationed in over 70 countries during the 24 years he served as a Naval Reserve officer. After he retired from NCTC, he and his wife, Cary traveled worldwide until his health declined.
Michael was an avid reader and a lifelong learner. Up until his final weeks, he was studying French and Italian on a daily basis. He completed his EMR training at age 70 and was a huge support of the arts.
Some of his last words were:
“Death comes to us all – it is as natural as being born and living a full life. It just came to me sooner than I had hoped. If you are reading this, then you were probably a close friend or family member. I love you and am confident that we will see each other again one day. Be good to each other and be kind to strangers. Treat immigrants the way you want to be treated. Set a good example. Never give up. Love your friends and family and take good care of them whenever you get the chance. It’s all just that simple!”
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00am on Sunday, November 20th, B&B Shawnee Theatres, 16301 Midland Dr., Shawnee KS 66217.
Donations may be made to the Julie Tree Fund, Providing live music for all Music Theatre Kansas City productions
www.MTKC.org/donate