Covenant News

Memorial Service Held for Dr. Paul Sebestyen

CHICAGO (July, 1999) - CHICAGO – A memorial service was held Sunday evening (July 25) for Dr. Paul Sebestyen, well-known North Park College professor who died earlier in the week at age 95. He was a resident of the Covenant Home of Chicago at the time of his death.

Dr. Sebestyen briefly taught German, but was better remembered as a professor of philosophy and religion, serving as a member of the North Park faculty from 1957 to 1977. He considered North Park his "home" during his post-retirement years and could often be found on the campus engaged in deep conversation with students.

"He retained interest in many former students who would seek him out whenever their travels brought them back to the campus," said Dr. David G. Horner, North Park University president.

The memorial service was led by Rev. Steve Peterson, co-director of the Center for Student Missions at North Park. A display of photos and other memorabilia filled the lobby of Anderson Chapel, where the service was held.

A letter to Dr. Sebestyen on the occasion of his 95th birthday, sent by Dr. Glenn Palmberg, president of the Evangelical Covenant Church, captured the essence of the sentiments expressed by the many who knew Dr. Sebestyen over the years.

"You have helped many, many students to think more deeply about life and faith – myself among them," Palmberg wrote. "Your love for learning, and your understanding of the tensions and paradoxes of this life, have continued to affect our thinking long after we left the North Park campus," Palmberg continued. "Thank you, Paul, for your lifetime of teaching."

"Dr. Sebestyen will be remembered for his keen intellect and ability to communicate on a deep level, Horner said. "He will be missed. Peace be upon his memory."

A memorial fund has been established in Dr. Sebestyen's memory. Donations may be made payable to Covenant Home of Chicago and mailed to Ruth Werstler, 3115 West Foster Avenue, Apartment A-2, Chicago, Illinois, 60625.

Condolences may be addressed to his nephew, Paul Csia, 2107 Concord Drive, Lakewood, Ohio, 44107-5326.

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