Steven Thomas Pankowski

PANKOWSKI Steven Thomas Pankowski, 41, of Rochester, passed away unexpectedly September 6, 2011. He was born April 10, 1970 in Sioux City, IA to Donald and Kathleen (Zagor) Pankowski. Steve attended Bishop Heelan High School in Sioux City before moving to Rochester in 1988. During his high school years in Sioux City, Steve worked at Courage Homes, which is a care center for the physically and mentally handicapped. Steve graduated from John Marshall High School in June of 1989. He worked as an EMT in Rochester, Minneapolis and Omaha. Steve was also a flight attendant for American Airlines until shortly after 9-11. He then moved to Phoenix to attend photography school. Steve was diagnosed with an early onset of M.D. and he returned to Rochester in March of 2010. Steve is survived by his parents, Donald and Kathleen Pankowski of Rochester; sisters, Katherine (Mark) Opheim of Omaha, NE, Karie Pankowski of Rochester; 3 nieces; 2 nephews and 1 great-niece. A memorial mass will be held 11:00am Friday, September 16, 2011 at Pax Christi Catholic Church 4135 18th Ave. NW, Rochester. Friends may gather from 10:00am until time of mass. Celebrant will be Father Fogal. Arrangements entrusted to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester. Www.ranfranzandvinefh.com