Obituary of Henry A. "Hank" Pavenski

Henry A. Pavenski, 91, of Peabody, MA. passed away Saturday, May 21st after a brief illness. Henry or “Hank” as family affectionately referred to him, was a well-traveled, fiercely independent man with a keen intellect. He could argue a point with great enthusiasm and willingly shared his wealth of knowledge. Henry graduated from Peabody High School at the age of 16 and was drafted into the U.S. Army 2 years later. He held a position as an Armorer during his military career. At WWII’s end Henry’s passion for hunting and fishing exploded and he could not get enough of either sport in his adopted state of Maine. Seeking further self-enrichment Henry not only taught himself Russian but took on the German dialect while enrolled at Boston University. Versed in four languages and a Geology degree in 1960 Henry explored a variety of avenues testing his knowledge and skill as a Geologist. Later in life he changed his occupational course and joined The Laborers Union, retiring at age 62. Henry was a very proud union member. He is survived by his sister Irene Pappas of Rowley; many nieces & nephews and their children. He was predeceased by his parents Anastasia and Stanislaus Pavenski of Peabody as well as sisters Cecilia Klemczuk, Helen Regali, Alice Wozniak and brothers Peter, Theodore and Adam Pavenski; dear to his heart, nephews James “little Jimmy” Pappas in 1959 and Arnold “Arnie” Pappas in 2015. He leaves behind his kindred spirits; niece Sharon, nephew Lenny and “buddy” Hugh who brought immense joy to Henry’s life over the years. Anything from homemade polish treats, stimulating conversation, cup of tea or tasty brew to “a walk down memory lane” especially the fishing stories told over and over again! Henry loved and appreciated all they shared. At Henry’s request a short family memorial service will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 1 p.m. at Conway, Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, 82 Lynn Street, Peabody, MA. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited and may pay their respects from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Interment will be at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Peabody. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, www.Stjude.org or a charity of your choice. Please visit www.ccbfuneral.com for directions, online obituary and memorial guest book.