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Norwood Park Imperials Alumni Forum

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Sad news- Gary Czapinski

Gary “Chops” Czapinski passed away quietly December 13 as a result of a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Marie (Grana) Czapinski.

It was Gary’s request there be no wake or funeral. There will be a private memorial at some later date (tentatively planned for January 11). Marie will advise of the arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Gary Chops Czapinski Memorial Fund (C/O Marie) would be appreciated.

Marie appreciates all who have sent letters & other communications, it really means a lot during this very difficult time for her.

Gary joined the Imperials in 1959, I believe, after having marched for several years with the Spectacle City Mariners drill team. He was a baritone bugler while in the corps.

But, his real skill was marching and drill design. Taken under the wings of Imperials manager and drill designer, Rick Maass, Gary became the drill designer and instructor for the Imperials in 1964. He continued with the Imperials for several years and also branched out to other corps.

He later became a marching and GE judge and continued to design field programs for many corps and competitive marching bands. His accomplishments were many. He truly became a drum corps icon with his work. Note that both he and Marie have been entered into the DCI Hall of Fame for their contributions to the DCI activity.

Contact information for Marie:

Marie Grana Czapinski
7757 Van Buren - Unit 408
Forest Park, IL 60130

e-mail for Marie: mczapins@gmail.com