We miss you so much my love
mama

My Dear Baby,
I know today supposed to be a happy day.
22 years ago I was so lucky and blessed, I could hold you in my arms and feel your heart beating but...
today it was not easy to smile.

If tears could build a stairway,
and memories a lane,
I'd walk right up to Heaven
and bring you home again.
No farewell words were spoken
no time to say goodbye
you were gone before I knew it,
and only God knows why.
My heart still aches in sadness
and secret tears still flow,
what it meant to lose you,
no one will ever know.

Kocham Cię Skarbie
mama

Kochanie - dziś twoje 22urodziny, w tym roku kończyłbyś studia…wiem,ze tam gdzie jesteś, jest pięknie,że opiekujesz się nami i jesteś szczęśliwy…
Mimo to ogromnie za tobą tęsknie.
Każdego dnia, ta tęsknota rozdziera moje serce na miliony kawałków…ale postaram się,żeby to był też radosny dzień! Taki jak ty!
Postaram się zrobić dziś coś,co sprawiłoby Ci radość.
każdego dnia.. GDZIEKOLWIEK JESTEŚ-MY…

Phil, the seniors and juniors at Cornell Phi Tau think about you all the time and miss you.

Scott Conroe

You are always with us baby.
love
mama

You've been a blessing from the start,
I love you son with all my heart.
I know you are happy but I wish to see your beautiful smile again, here with us blowing up 21 candles on a tiramisu birthday cake.
I miss you so much...
Every day
Happy Birthday, sweetheart!
love,
mom

Byłeś dla mnie błogosławieństwem od swoich narodzin Filipku.
Kocham cię synku całym sercem.
Wiem, że jesteś szczęśliwy, ale chciałbym znów zobaczyć Twój piękny uśmiech, tutaj z nami dmuchając 21 świeczek na urodzinowym torcie tiramisu.
Tak bardzo za tobą tęsknię...
Każdego dnia...
Wszystkiego najlepszego kochanie!
Kocham Cię,
mama

Kochanie…
Dziś Twoje 21urodziny…
Tęsknimy do ranic możliwości. 
Ale wiem, że tam gdzie jesteś - jesteś szczęśliwy! I to daje ukojenie.

Hey Phillip,

It's about time I wrote something here. I know it's taken me a long time. Too long. I think I was just waiting for a moment when it would feel easy but I am starting to realize it won't magically get easier the longer I wait.
There are so many things I wish I told you. I thought you would be around forever so there never seemed like any rush. I wish I told you that I loved you like a little brother. I hope you knew that anyway. I wish I told you how much I appreciated your genuine kindness and your infectious giggle and how great you were with Remus. I hope you knew that our Italy trip meant the world to both Matt and me. We were so lucky to have you with us.
I have thought about you every day of the past year. There is a route I take when I walk home from work with a section that cuts through a small patch of trees. I don't know why but I always imagine you are walking with me through those trees. It has become a little ritual, the time of day when I send some thoughts in your direction. I hope wherever you are that it is beautiful and peaceful. We are doing our best to hold down the fort down here.

Love,
Tess

„Gdziekolwiek jesteś,
Ta sama ziemia, to samo niebo.
Gdziekolwiek jesteś-my”

Kochanie-każdego dnia, jesteś przy mnie, mówię do ciebie, nasłuchuje, tęsknie i…nadal wierze, że jeszcze się spotkamy-gdziekolwiek by to nie było….
Agnieszka

Hey, just want to say that I'm thinking of you. Not just today, but literally every day.

I miss you mate.

Phil, the Phi Taus gave out the first scholarship in your name last week to a sophomore transfer, Brandon Lin. First of many. You really made a big impact in your short time with us.

There is a place between Good Night and Good Morning
Where I always hope
I’ll see you again
I’ll hug you again
I’ll hold you again
I’ll see your beautiful smile again
I’ll protect you and nothing bad will happen to you
And when I wake up I will know that last year was just a horrible dream…

I love you so much my Sweetheart
                               mama

Jest czas kiedy mówimy Dobranoc a następnego ranka Dzień Dobry
Pomiędzy tymi dwoma słowami jest czas I chowa się nadzieja, że
Znów Cię zobaczę
Znowu cię przytulę
Znowu cię utulę w matczynych ramionach
Znowu zobaczę twój piękny uśmiech
Ochronię cię i nic złego ci się nie stanie
A kiedy się obudzę, będę wiedziała, że zeszły rok był tylko okropnym snem…

Bardzo Cię Kocham mój Skarbeńku gdziekolwiek teraz jesteś!
mama

Dear Phillip,

I'm writing to you during the last four minutes of your birthday. The other day I passed a place where we talked about calculus, and thought of you and smiled. I wanted to write to you tonight to send you extra love and light, wherever you may be. Grinnell is much different than it was our first year, and I dearly miss your presence here. I think many of us here miss you. You'll be happy to hear that I'm going on a date with a really nice guy tomorrow. I remember you being so upset when I was hurt by the guy I was dating our first year, and telling me I deserve the very best. I'm really grateful you said that to me, friend. Anyways, I wanted you to know that I still think about you, that you still bring much light and love into my life. I hope that I can pass that on to you as well, and anyone else reading this. Love, Emma

Tyle razy słyszałam „wiesz o co prosiłem ciocia, jak dmuchałem świeczki? Żebyście przyjechali za rok na moje urodziny”
Nigdy mi się nie udało spędzić z Tobą tego wyjątkowego dnia... ale sercem i myślami zawsze przy Tobie byłam i teraz też jestem!
Kochanie - codziennie budzę się i zasypiam z myślą o Tobie. Dziś to mógłby być taki... piękny dzień, Twoich 20tych urodzin.
Zawsze sobie wyobrażałam jakim będziesz nastolatkiem, potem młodym mężczyzną, a potem dojrzałym facetem...
Śniłeś mi się tylko raz, 9 maja..
To była uroczystość podobna do absolutorium, szedłeś po scenie, niezwykle zadowolony i dumny, patrzyłeś przed siebie. Widać było,ze jesteś szczęśliwy. Jakiś głos w megafonie wymieniał Twoje sukcesy i zakończył, że piękna przyszłość cię czeka, ze możesz wybrać cokolwiek zechcesz. Nie obejrzałeś się za siebie ani razu...
Wiele razy rozmawialiśmy o tej uroczystości...

Wierzę,że przed sobą widziałeś piękną przyszłość i teraz tam jesteś! Wiem, że twoja energia jest także przy nas.

KOCHANIE - GDZIEKOLWIEK JESTEŚ, BĄDŹ SZCZĘŚLIWY!

Dotychczas radosną datą dla nas był dzień 12-ty listopada, dzień Twoich urodzin Filipku. Dziś kończyłbyś 20 lat. Przez te wszystkie lata dałeś nam tak wiele radości, przyjeżdżając do nas na wakacje i spędzając wspólnie czas. Przeżyliśmy wiele pięknych chwil i wiele przygód. Wszystkich tych dni nie jesteśmy w stanie opisać.
Twoja tragiczna śmierć 8-go maja 2021r, pozostanie dla nas datą smutku na zawszę....
Zawsze będziesz w naszej pamięci i w sercu, jako uśmiechnięty, radosny i wspaniały wnuk. Dałeś nam wiele powodów do dumy. Bardzo cię kochamy.
Babcia i Dziadek.

Dear sweetheart. I would like to wish you all the best on your birthday, give you hugs and kisses. I would like to eat a piece of your birthday cake together in a cheerful atmosphere, go to Rosa's for pizza as always. Last year we laughed that this is your last - teen birthday. Today, I would like so much to turn back time, keep you safe at home, and protect you from danger. I would like to wake you up every morning and complain that you stayed up late at night, made noise on your keyboard, and overslept for breakfast or lunch again :)
I would like to complain that you did not take out a dirty glass from the room or the candy wrappers.
For me, you have always been a little ray, a treasure, a huger, despite the fact that you grew up to be a tall (tallest in the whole family) handsome man. You have brought so much joy into my life and have never given cause for worries or anger. You have always been so responsible and full of love for people. It was always so easy for you to forgive or forbearance, you couldn't be angry with others, and you always put others' needs above yours. Giving was so easy for you, taking was a bit worse ...
Every day I miss you more and more, I wake up and go to sleep with you in my mind. You always had so much to say. Now, only a monologue remains. When I ask you to come back, you don't answer, when I'm angry with you, you don't excuse yourself, when I'm crying, you don't wipe my tears and you don't cuddle, when I don't know what to cook for dinner, you don't search for new recipes for me, when I listen to music, you don't play new melodies to me. I hope you can hear me even though you don't answer, I believe you are by my side. Just like in my dream I will tell you one more time, I would give my life for one more moment with you.


I never want this to go unsaid,
So here in this poem is for it to be said.
There are no words to express how much you mean to me,
A son like you, I thought could never be.
Because the day you were born, I just knew,
God sent me a blessing- and that was you.
For this, I thank Him every day.
You are the true definition of a son, in every way.

I want you to know that you and your brother were the purposes of my life,
Out of everything I did- it was you and him that I did right.
Always remember that I know how much you care,
I can tell by the relationship that we share.
For a son like you, there could be no other,
And whether we are together or apart,
Please do not ever forget-
You will always have a piece of my heart.

I love you so much!


,Kochany mój Skarbie. Tak bardzo bym chciała życzyć Ci wszystkiego najlepszego w Dniu Twoich urodzin, uściskać, ucałować i razem w wesołej atmosferze zjeść kawałek tortu, pójść tak jak zawsze do Rosa’s na pizzę. W zeszłym roku śmialiśmy się, że to Twoje ostatnie -naste urodziny. Dziś tak bardzo chciałabym cofnąć czas, zatrzymać cię bezpiecznie w domu, ochronić przed niebezpieczeństwem, codziennie rano budzić Cię i narzekać, że znów siedziałeś długo w nocy, pukałeś w swoją klawiaturę i znów przespałeś śniadanie czy lunch:) lub, że nie wyniosłeś brudnej szklanki z pokoju czy papierków po cukierkach.
Dla mnie zawsze byłeś małym promyczkiem, skarbkiem, przytulaskiem pomimo tego, że wyrosłeś na wysokiego (najwyższego w całej rodzinie) przystojnego mężczyznę. Wniosłeś tyle radości w moje życie i nigdy nie dałeś powodu do gniewu czy złości. Zawsze byłeś taki odpowiedzialny i pełen miłości do ludzi. Wybaczanie czy wyrozumiałość przychodziły Ci z taką łatwością, nie potrafiłeś się złościć na innych i zawsze stawiałeś potrzeby innych ponad swoje. Dawanie przychodziło Ci z taką łatwością, z braniem było już trochę gorzej…
Każdego dnia tęsknię za Tobą coraz bardziej, budzę się i zasypiam z myślą o Tobie. Zawsze miałeś tyle do powiedzenia. Teraz pozostaje tylko monolog. Kiedy cię proszę abyś wrócił nie odpowiadasz, kiedy jestem na ciebie zła nie tłumaczysz się, kiedy płaczę nie ocierasz mi łez i nie przytulasz się, kiedy nie wiem co ugotować na obiad nie wyszukujesz mi nowych przepisów, kiedy słucham muzyki nie puszczasz mi nowych melodii. Mam nadzieje, że mnie słyszysz choć nie odpowiadasz, wierzę że jesteś przy mnie. Tak jak w moim śnie powtórzę ci jeszcze raz, oddałabym życie za jeszcze jedną chwilę z Tobą.
Bardzo Cię Kocham
mama

I can’t believe it’s already been six months. It’s been really tough, but I’ve tried to keep giving myself little goals to aspire to - something that could make you proud of me. I recently ran the marathon and training helped keep me sane. As silly as it sounds, I always felt you around me whenever I ran. I called my last lap that I would rally for each night my “Phillip lap”.

It’s your birthday this Friday and I’ve decided to always celebrate it in a way I thought you would like - an annual Phillip day. This year, we’ll keep it simple - quesadillas and a game night. Next year, the League world championships will be held in the US (in LA) and as it coincides with your 21st, I’ll go and watch it with Matt in your honor. I’m also going to get a little memorial tattoo. I haven’t settled on the design 100% yet, but it’ll probably be a strand of RNA as a leafy, flowery vine.

I’m grateful that I can say I don’t have many regrets when it comes to my relationship with you. You were always there for me when I needed you and I hope I was able to be there for you when you needed me. I’m grateful we got the chance to get really close, even though it makes this hard. We experienced so many joys together. I only wish that we were able to have more of those moments. What we had was great, but it was only the tip of the iceberg. We missed out on so much of life together.

I wish I could say it’s gotten easier, but it really hasn’t. I’ve just gotten more used to this awful feeling. There’s no lesson to learn or positive to take away. The only thing I’ve found to help is to just sit with my sadness, embrace it and think of you. I actually miss you more as time goes along. I hadn’t realized the size of the space you occupied in my life.

I recently reread a favorite series of mine and a quote stuck out.

"You told me it will get worse."
"It will, but then it will get better. Then it will get worse again. Then better. This is life, and I will not lie by saying every day will be sunshine. But there will be sunshine again, and that is a very different thing to say. That is truth. I promise you: You will be warm again."

I’ve found it to be very apt. I have happier days and I have sadder days. Even on the happy ones, I always get a pang of hurt remembering that I won’t get to experience that particular happy moment with you. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you. I hope, wherever you are, that you’ve found a way to stay warm. I miss you so much.

Nasza historia zaczęła się, kiedy Filip przyleciał z mamą i bratem do Polski w 2003r. Zabawy, spacery, zapasy w których "nigdy nie wygrałem", zawsze NA KONIEC WAKACYJNEGO DNIA... Stał się dla mnie próbą, czy mogę być partnerem dla takiej wyjątkowej osoby, pragnącej czasu, uwagi, zabawy, grania w piłkę i innych ważnych dziecięcych potrzeb. Dorastał i z maleństwa wyrósł chłopiec, aż pewnego dnia z dumą podawał nam obrączki. Wspólne podróże po Polsce, sprawiały że nasza więź nabrała pięknych i nierozerwalnych barw.
Wspomnienia, zdjęcia, marzenia, wspólny czas, rozrywki pozostaną ze mną na zawsze.
Pamięć, modlitwa, zaduma, osób, które poznały i kochały Filipa powinny być i na pewno będą czymś wyjątkowym.
                                Tomek Augustyn - wujek

Have you ever met people that were just brilliant all around, and you knew that one day they would accomplish great things in the world? Phillip was the embodiment of such person.

I met Phillip in computer science at Grinnell. We were partners on several labs and our final project for one of those courses. After almost an entire academic year of being in the same sections and working with him, I came to know a truly incredible, talented, humble human being. I had no prior experience in comp sci, and in such a predominantly male department and field, it was difficult to find a sense of belonging and camaraderie with people who seemed so advanced. Phillip, however, completely changed my experience. I was always nervous working with Phillip because he was simply so talented and intelligent, things just came to him so quickly. Still, he always took the time to help me and encourage me. Despite being far slower at typing and grasping at concepts than he was, he was so patient, kind, and empathetic. After working with him once, he started saying hi in passing and made small talk about class and just life in general.

Phillip was a good person. He encouraged me to keep going when I felt deeply lost and confused, and he commended me for how quickly I could pick up concepts, regardless of how minute they seemed. Most importantly, he inspired me to extend such kindness and light to others. I will forever be grateful and honored to have met Phillip and considered him a friend. I hope that he and his family, close friends, and loved ones can understand how greatly he impacted the lives of people around him, even if he might not have realized at the time. His memory will live on forever, through the people he graced in his lifetime.

I didn't know Phillip....I came across his memorial page online, and felt I had to leave my condolences to his family, friends, and whoever he knew. All the memories posted are all loving thoughts of a young man, who was very special to everyone, and touched so many lives...May he forever "Rest Easy With The Angels"....God Bless Him 

I met Phillip one night at a party with my best friend Julia. He was with whom we came to refer to as, “the boys,” Eric, Aaron, and Pierce. I remember being nervous to talk to them; four attractive guys laughing in the corner at one of my first college parties. Eventually, Julia and I started talking to them. We immediately clicked as friends, laughing and making stupid jokes. From there on, Julia and I hung out with “the boys” almost every weekend. I have fond memories of sitting in Phillip and Pierce’s room laughing about life. Phillip is one of the kindest people I have ever met. I remember running into him once after my calculus 1 class and asking how his day was going. He talked about a hard calculus 2 exam he just took, and we laughed because math is confusing. I will forever remember Phillip smiling; the way his big blue eyes would crease behind his square glasses as he beamed.
One of my fondest memories with Phillip occurred just before winter break freshman year when I was crying at a party because my boyfriend at the time had hurt my feelings. Phillip made me laugh because he was so ready to punch him, repeatedly telling me the way he treated me wasn’t right and how I deserved better. He was such a good friend. Phillip loved Bebe so much. I could see it every time he talked about her or checked his phone for a message. Phillip was always so genuine and had this radiance that drew you in when he smiled. I aspire to be as genuinely kind and caring as he was. I will forever miss his laugh, his jokes, and his generosity. I am so grateful to have known him. I will forever remember you smiling, Phillip. Rest in peace.

A song that has helped me through this time: "We'll meet again" by The Ink Spots

It pains me to know that a few weeks ago we were just playing games online, talking about college classes and just relaxing in a call and now you are gone. Of course, we were not the closest in high school, but my that did not stop me from viewing you as one of the kindest, funniest, and skilled debaters in the Debate Team. I also knew you through my cousin, to who I am sure you have brought immense happiness and cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Rest In Peace brother, you will be missed greatly.

Phillip,

Even though I did not know you deeply, your kindness, sense of humor and genuine personality shone through in the times we shared during Dr. Rabl's physics class and beyond. You never failed to put a smile on my face, both with your witticisms in real life and over the video games we played together. My one regret is not spending more time with you that day we randomly met at Trader Joe's.

My mother always says that it's the purest of people that leave this world first. While she did not know you, she mourns and prays for you and your family as well. I will look upon the memories we shared with fondness and warmth. May you rest in peace.

Pierwszy raz spotkałam Filipa i jego rodzinę w Poznaniu, na ślubie mojej przyjaciółki Agnieszki. Byłam bardzo ciekawa tego spotkania, ponieważ wcześniej znałam siostrę Agnieszki, Grażynę, jedynie z opowieści oraz ze zdjęć, które Agnieszka tak chętnie pokazywała mi, gdy mieszkałyśmy w akademiku. Jak to często w życiu bywa, przez kolejne lata naszej przyjaźni, najbliżsi Agnieszki stawali się też bliscy mojemu sercu. Dlatego bardzo się cieszyłam, że na zbliżającym się ślubie wreszcie poznam ich osobiście.
Tymczasem tego sierpniowego popołudnia to właśnie Filip absolutnie skradł moje serce. Miał wtedy sześć lat i choć onieśmielony sytuacją , dzielnie sprostał powierzonemu mu podczas uroczystości zadaniu. Urzekł mnie swoją dziecięcą naturalnością i jednocześnie świadomością powagi sytuacji. Wyglądał przy tym wyjątkowo elegancko w swoim garniturze i chłopięcym krawacie. Mam jedno zdjęcie zrobione już po ślubie, na którym stoi obok Agnieszki i Tomka i uśmiecha się tak niezwykle czarująco. Takim go właśnie zapamiętałam, mimo że z biegiem lat widziałam jeszcze dziesiątki kolejnych zdjęć, dokumentujących jego dorastanie i wakacyjne pobyty w Polsce. Uśmiechał się radośnie na wielu z nich, bo wyrósł na wspaniałego, młodego człowieka, dobrego i wrażliwego, pełnego miłości i troski o innych, co zawsze podczas rozmowy o nim podkreślała Agnieszka. Ten szczery uśmiech był po prostu odzwierciedleniem pięknego wnętrza Filipa i dlatego nie przeminie nigdy, lecz pozostanie z nami na zawsze…

Phillip was one of the smartest and most considerate people I met at QHSS. We met Freshman year and became closer later on through the Debate team and the coding program at Columbia. He was always available for late night argument run-throughs before our debates and was incredibly helpful whenever I couldn’t fix my code. Phillip was a great friend, mentor, and classmate. I knew I could always approach him if I wanted to talk to someone or just randomly catch up; Phillip always managed to brighten up my day with his witty comments and lightheartedness. Phillip, may you rest in peace, you will be dearly missed.

Grace and I worked together as colleagues for 15 years and we became close friends. Our European heritage and similar upbringing brought us even closer. I've met Philip many times at IPS, and he was just like his mom. Philip was intelligent, polite, kind and a gentle soul. But I knew him more through all the stories Grace has shared with me. The latest was when Grace came to me and asked me to read one of Philip's essays that he wrote for his collage application. In it Philip talked about the deep connection and love he had for Poland, the culture and for his heritage. The love for his Grandparents and his family over seas was undeniable. I felt his words,  they were more than touching and beautiful, they were truly coming from his heart. Dearest Philip, go now wherever your heart takes you.  You will always be remembered.

I met Phillip at the beginning of this semester in a computer science class where we first met as partners for a project.

Working with classmates can be difficult and uneasy, but Phillip had such a welcoming and warm presence that once we met I immediately felt at ease around him.

We shared a lot of the same interests in computer science and in what we might want to do after graduating. I know Phillip was really interested in joining a tech start-up, and he frequently mentioned his brother during these conversations. I too could tell Phillip truly admired and looked up to his brother from how much and often he spoke about following his same steps. 

I also never minded the late-night sessions we'd spent programming together reaching last-minute deadlines because, with the easy-going and bright mood Phillip carried, I always felt so reassured during these otherwise stressful nights.

It was an amazing pleasure to know Phillip, and I cherish the memories and conversations I was so fortunate to have with him.

Rest easy, Phillip.

Filipa znałam głównie z opowieści Agnieszki i wielu zdjęć o których często mówiłam, że są "kwintesencją radości i pasji życia"... Miał w sobie ten rzadki rodzaj światła, który łączy ludzi...rozum nie może ogarnąć, a słowami wyrazić nie sposób...wyrazy współczucia dla całej Rodziny...

Woadomosc o smierci Waszego Syna jest dla nas szokiem.
Nie mozemy wprost uwierzyc, ze nie ma Go juz wsrod nas.
Jego smierc spowodowala pustke w sercach wszystkich, ktorzy go znali.
Prosze przyjac szczere kondolecje.

Rodzina Bachar z Kanady

Poznaliśmy Filipa latem 2013 roku, kiedy przyjechał do nas razem ze swoją ciocią, wujkiem i bratem ciotecznym. Zapamiętaliśmy go jako wyjątkowego chłopca-ujmował wszystkich swoją pogodą ducha, życzliwym stosunkiem do świata, wrażliwością na innych, chęcią pomocy. Był wyjątkowym człowiekiem. Jednym z tych niewielu, którzy idą przez życie obdarzając innych wyłącznie dobrem. Jakby miał w sobie światło....Wierzę, że wszyscy ci, którzy mieli szczęście go znać, poniosą je dalej. Na zawsze w naszych sercach...

I have worked with Grace for many years, and she is a dear colleague and friend.  I can say that I have seen Phillip grow up mostly through his mom’s voice . Not a day goes bye when Grace doesn't share a story about her children and when I read some of the stories about Phillip now, they are not unfamiliar to me.  Seeing him from time to time I was always impressed with how much he had grown. I also remember a boy who coached his Mom for some part of an IPS teacher talent show, in how to act and danse Michel Jackson style.  Of course "Ms. Grace" won the show. I didn't spend a lot of time with him, but I do have a memory of warmth and kindness and a young man who doesn’t like injustice.  I can say that having worked with Grace for a long time, Phillip became part of my life and he is in my heart.

Miss Babette

My heart aches for this tragic loss. Phillip was my son Eric's friend at Grinnell. As Eric left home for the first time, he was fortunate to encounter Phillip, whose exceptional capacity for human understanding and love were a help to so many.

I met Phillip at the beginning of this spring semester, and I quickly recognized his rare ability to make me feel like I had known him for a lifetime.

Part of this was his welcoming and unforgettable smile; part of it was his incredibly intelligent sense of humor; part of it was his contagious excitement for the future; most of this ability, however, came from Phillip’s unwavering dedication to accepting you for exactly who you were. Phillip’s heart was simply too big to allow him to judge you, his mind too understanding to allow him to make you feel like you weren’t enough.

It was the honor of my lifetime to know Phillip these past few months. The world was robbed of one of its sweetest souls. Rest easy, Phillip.

I first "met" Phillip when he was still inside his mother's tummy. I then remember him at IPS - as a student at 35th Street and then as a visitor over the years. Grace and I worked in classrooms next door to each other at 45th Street for many years. Whenever we had the chance, we used to proudly talk about our children and all their accomplishments and their experiences.....and what special sweet kids we were lucky enough to have in our lives. I don't ever remember Phillip visiting IPS without a warm expression and friendly smile on his face. I cannot think of words to comfort your family at this time...it's an unimaginable loss. But the world was a brighter place with Phillip in it and I will always remember the happy times we shared together.

I'd been getting to know Phillip since the day he was born through the eyes of his aunt, Agnieszka, who is my close friend. When he was a little boy, I also met him in person and continued to accompany his life in many stories until the very end. Hence, I have the knowledge and certainty that his presence in the family was felt very deeply, and his existence in the world made the whole family and loved ones — both the ones in the USA and Poland — extremely merry. Philip brought a lot of joy and goodness. He was the light of the family, life revolved around him. For him, you wanted to be there and try harder. His frequent visits to Poland activated the whole family. I remember how much effort Agnieszka put into the precise preparation of their annual trips around Poland. She took care to show Phillip our country, its beauty, and history. She wanted to make him happy, but also for Phillip to know and experience his own roots. Thanks to his visits to Poland, the summer was always anticipated and intensely experienced. For Janek, his cousin, he was like an older brother and role model, and being with him was the greatest adventure. I know how much he meant to the grandparents - how much love they had for him. I also know, above all, how much his brother Matt and his parents loved and cared for him.
I felt so close to Phillip, because my daughter, Natalia, is almost the same age. We were facing similar problems, dilemmas, and we shared the same stages of growing up. Not long after Natalia applied to college, he was filling out his applications too. They both shared similar interests. Phillip's mum, Grace, also helped my daughter move from Poland to the University of Wisconsin. Today, with Natalia, we join Agnieszka and the whole family in mourning the loss of Phillip. I am deeply convinced that Philip is happy in the arms of Jesus. That he smiles as beautiful as always, and that his eyes are full of light and warmth. His life was full of empathy and openness to others as Philip in his wisdom quickly managed to capture life's essence and its greatest sense.
Till we meet again!
Joanna Rennwanz and Natalia Koszałka

Filipa poznawałam od samego urodzenia oczami Jego cioci Agnieszki, która jest moją bliską przyjaciółką. Gdy był kilkuletnim chłopcem, poznałam Go również osobiście i towarzyszyłam Jego życiu w wielu opowieściach do samego końca. Stąd mam wiedzę i pewność, że Jego obecność w Rodzinie była odczuwana bardzo głęboko, a Jego istnienie na świecie uszczęśliwiało wszystkich
bliskich – i w USA, i w Polsce. Filip wniósł do rodziny ogrom radości i dobra. Był dla niej słońcem. Wokół Niego kumulowało i toczyło się życie. Dla Niego chciało się być i starać. Jego często przyjazdy do Polski aktywizowały całą rodzinę. Pamiętam jak wiele zaangażowania Agnieszka wkładała w precyzyjne przygotowanie corocznych wspólnych podróży po Polsce. Dbała o to, by pokazywać Filipowi nasz kraj, jego piękno i historię. Chciała sprawiać Mu radość, ale też umożliwić poznanie i doświadczenie własnych korzeni. Dzięki Jego przyjazdom do Polski lato było wyczekiwane i intensywnie przeżywane. Dla kuzyna Janka był jak starszy brat, a przebywanie z nim - wielką przygodą
oraz nauką wzorców. Wiem, ile znaczył dla Dziadków – jak wiele mieli dla Niego miłości. Wiem też przede wszystkim jak bardzo kochał Go i troszczył się o Niego Jego brat Mateusz oraz Jego Rodzice.
Filip był mi bliski, bo niemal w tym samym wieku jest moja córka, Natalia, dotyczyły nas więc podobne problemy i dylematy, łączył ten sam czas wzrastania. Gdy ona starała się o przyjęcie na studia, wkrótce starał się i On. Oboje mieli podobne zainteresowania. Mama Filipa pomogła również mojej córce w przeprowadzce z Polski na uniwersytet w Wisconsin. Dziś z Nią, ale także z Agnieszką i całą Rodziną, łączę się w bólu i modlitwie. Mam jednak głębokie przekonanie, że Filip w obecności Pana Boga jest niezmiennie szczęśliwy i radosny. Że uśmiecha się tak samo pięknie i całym sobą, jak
zawsze, a Jego oczy są stale pełne blasku i ciepła. Jego życie było niezwykle uważne, pełne empatii i otwartości na innych. Bo Filip w swojej mądrości prędko wychwycił jego istotę i największy sens.
Spoczywaj w Bogu!
Joanna Rennwanz i Natalia Koszałka

I didn't know Phillip, but, as a parent, I'm grieving for him and for his family. I'm so very sorry for his loss.

I am so saddened by the news of Phillips passing. I worked with grace for a few years as co teachers. On 9/11 grace was very pregnant with Phillip. All of the trains had shut down and so grace in her denim overalls with a big pregnant belly walked with me to my apartment. We stayed at my apartment until very late that night when the trains opened back up. Right after Phillip was born I came to visit in the hospital and his face was as beautiful as an Angel. When Phillip or Matthew would visit our classroom they were always so polite, sweet and very helpful. Grace you raised amazing boys who I’m sure became amazing men. Phillips life ended way to soon. I am praying for your family and sending you hugs during this extremely difficult time.

I had met Phillip many times over the years when he visited his mother at IPS. But I know him through the eyes of his mother, Grace. We shared many conversations about our children during the fifteen years we worked together. I got to hear about all of his accomplishments over the years. I enjoyed seeing the light of pride in her eyes when ever she spoke about both her wonderful sons.
Phillip was taken from her way too soon but his bright light will continue to glow in his mother's eyes.
May his memory be for a blessing.
My heartfelt condolences to the Phillip's family.
Sending light and love,
Amy

Phillip joined the fantasy hockey league I run along with his brother a couple of years ago. I always really liked talking about hockey and the Rangers with Phillip, since we tended to agree on a lot of things. It was always fun trying to work out trades with him too, since he wasn't afraid to go for a big move and make things interesting. I'm heartbroken to know I'll never get to meet him in person at a game like we were all hoping to do once things settled down. Here's hoping we can all get to one some day, in Phillip's memory.

We may have never met in person, but chatting in that group with everyone every day really helped myself and I'm sure a lot of us stay sane and get through the COVID lockdowns in the past year, and Phillip was a big part of that. Rest in peace Phillip, we'll miss you.

The first time I met Phillip was at a basement concert during first semester of our first year at Grinnell. My friend Emma and I saw Phillip and his friends standing in the back laughing, and we decided to approach them to try to talk to them. For some reason, Emma and I picked Phillip out as the most approachable so we decided to talk to him first. Little did I know, that was the beginning of very special friendship.

Fast forward a week later, and the six of us (Phillip, me, Emma, Eric, Aaron, and Pierce) are spending time together almost every day, and having so much fun together. I think what initially drew us to Phillip was his infectious smile and kind eyes. When I picture him in my mind, he is always smiling, always laughing. He was so funny, too-- even if Phillip was making fun of you, you could tell by his eyes that he was laughing with you, and never at you. His witty humor and fast jokes will be sorely missed.

I have a few favorites memories of Phillip, but I'll start with Halloween. Pierce and I both had birthdays on what Grinnell students call "Halloweekend," and so Phillip insisted on throwing us a joint birthday party in his and Pierce's room. Of course, absolutely everyone was invited, because Phillip never left anyone out. Phillip is probably the kindest and most inclusive person I'll ever know. He shared everything he had with the people he cared about. The night ended with the three of us sprawled out in Phillip and Pierce's room, talking about everything and nothing. I remember Pierce talking about how badly he wanted love, and Phillip saying that Pierce should want it- because "love is life-changing." We all knew he was talking about Bibi.

My next memory of Phillip is more of a collection, really. I just remember how much he loved Bibi. I remember him talking to Bibi everyday, sometimes for hours!! They would even study together. I remember one time, I went to meet him studying at the library, and I decided to sneak up on him. What I didn't realize was that he was Facetiming Bibi, while studying. Phillip didn't mind my scare, of course (which didn't even scare him in the first place). He had unending patience for all of our shenanigans.

My favorite memory of Phillip comes from one of our last nights at Grinnell before we were sent home due to the pandemic. There was this huge party in the lounge on the floor that he and the boys lived on, and of course Emma and I went. I remember that I was having fun until a sudden wave of sadness washed over me when I realized we would all have to leave soon. I stopped dancing and sat on the couch. Phillip noticed and came to sit next to me. He asked me if I was okay, and then started cracking jokes about the other people dancing until I was laughing. He would do this thing sometimes, where he would narrate what other people (particularly Pierce, Eric, and Aaron) were doing (especially if they were being weird/funny), and add his own commentary. He had so many running jokes that he would just slip into his narration, like Eric and Aaron not knowing they were in love with each other. It was so funny!!

Talking to Phillip always made me feel so steady, like a heavy rock in the middle of a quick-moving river. I'll miss is greatly. He had this energy that drew you in, so you always wanted to talk to him and hear what he had to say. Maybe it was his kind eyes, or maybe it's just the way he was. Phillip was truly one of the kindest, open-hearted, understanding people I've ever met. He deserved so much more. Rest In Peace, Phillip. You are loved, remembered, and dearly missed.

My heart is breaking for Phillip's family, friends, and loved ones. By all accounts, Phillip was a beautiful young man, full of life and promise. May he live on in the hearts and memories of all who knew and cared about him.
My son is a 2015 Cornell graduate and member of PKT fraternity, so I feel close to this tragedy. May Phillip rest in peace and may those he leaves behind find solace in their love for him.

"They who one another keep
Alive, ne'er parted be." 
~J. Donne

I have worked with Philip on IPS Sumner camp 2018 and the was the last summer camp I worked. I'm happy that I got to know such a kind and happy soul . Now working with his mom from last 2 years and hearing about Philip and Matthew everyday feels like I know them personally. Philip was Grace's forever baby boy and I think he will be... rest in peace Philip.. you will be missed ❣

Sharing a small freshman dorm with someone is an experience like no other and allows you to truly get to know someone. Phillip was like no other, he had such kind eyes, an inviting smile, and the way he laughed you couldn't help but laugh as well. He was unconditionally kind, and was a computer science wiz. I could tell he really admired his older brother, he looked up to him in every way. Without fail, I would come back to our room and Phillip would be chatting away with someone, sometimes Bibi or other times a cheerful conversation in Polish with his family. I could tell he had a lot of love to give, he passed way too soon.
Rest in peace

Phillip was a sweet, kind, gifted young man. I very much enjoyed the summer he spent with us at IPS. He was a natural with the kids and brought us all so much joy. He was the light in Grace's heart. She always lite up when she talked of Phillip. Rest in peace Dear One.

Phillip was an incredible individual who will be dearly missed. I first met him travelling to and from QHSS as a freshman and weekly bubble tea trips to Elmhurst or QCM with our other friends became the highlight of my week. I also remember how Phillip would always brighten up BC Calc when he sat in the back with Bibi and never failed to make us laugh during class with his quick wit. He was so intelligent, thoughtful, kind and remarkably perceptive. He always noticed when someone was upset and tried to cheer them up or make them feel included. I will always remember and miss his smile. Rest in peace Phillip.

Phillip truly left us way too soon. I'm devastated that we won't ever be able to meet in person. I had played video games together with him and his brother Matt in the midst of COVID and honestly, those weekends were continually one of the highlights of my week to look forward to. I will dearly miss the opportunity to hear Phillip make a clever quip to lighten the mood for his team. But more than that, Phillip showed me just how mature and thoughtful one can be, no matter the age or situation. May you rest in peace, Phillip. I will treasure my memories of you.

I met Phillip via zoom when he was rushing my fraternity. Zoom makes it difficult to be personable, establish connections, etc. but to my surprise (at the time), Phillip made such an undeniably good impression on all of us, that although he met the least amount of brothers of those that were rushing, those of us that met him just knew he would be the perfect fit for our brotherhood.

My first impression of Phillip was that he was obviously very nice, intelligent, and funny, but appeared more reserved. For that reason, a lot of us believed he would benefit greatly from our fraternity, and having a group of guys around him encouraging him to get out of his shell, be more outgoing, etc. Having spent almost every day with him for at least a few hours per day (usually lunch/dinner at the house) over the course of this semester, i realized i was half correct, and half mistaken. He is not only quite nice, intelligent, and funny, but I came to learn he is also selfless, humble, empathetic, outgoing, and most of all helpful. Though he wasn’t the most extroverted, he always spoke up when it mattered. Though he kept to himself some of the time, he was always there for anyone that needed him. Though i felt as if he would benefit from the fraternity greatly, i feel even stronger now that our guys benefitted way more from him.

Phillip is a fantastic kid, and i don’t know if I’ll ever get over the fact that i won’t get to spend more time with him, learn more about him, watch and help him progress through Cornell, or catch up in a few years post-grad. You’re forever my brother Phillip, and the time we spent together, though short, was unforgettable. Love you homie.

Funny anecdote: One time Phil saw me asking a girl a few questions, and assumed i was trying to hit on her. After i left the room, Phillip started talking to her. Once i came back, the girl gave me a weird look, and walked away. Within seconds, Phillip came up to me and said “Bro i just hooked you up. I told her you’re the best guy, and that you’re super nice.” Normally i would just explain that i wasn’t even interested in the girl, but he looked so content and happy by the fact that he thought he had helped me out, that i just smiled, gave him a big hug and told him “you’re a lifesaver”.

I was lucky enough to meet Phillip on the very first day of college, back in 2019. I remember being uneasy: I was in a totally new environment, hadn’t made any friends yet, and was worried I wouldn’t find my way. But Phillip immediately made me feel at ease—he told a joke with his signature wit—and we shared a laugh. I was delighted to learn that he lived across from me and we came to spend hours every day together. I will never forget all the meals we shared, especially the mozzarella sticks from the Grill which were his favorite, the laughs we had together in our crazy dorm hallway, but also the serious moments, in which his profound compassion and understanding shone through. 

One of my favorite memories of Phillip is our trip to the opera over Winter Break last year. I think he was somewhat skeptical but was eager to take part because he knew it was one of my favorite things. He was always willing to take a chance if it meant making one of his friends happy. He ended up liking it better than he expected, although the real highlight was going out to dinner afterwards, at our favorite New York City restaurant. He was the kind of friend you want to have for your whole life, one with whom you could share experiences like this. He was always there for me, through the struggles of college, and I will miss his contagious laughter, deeply empathetic nature, and astounding generosity. He touched so many lives with these qualities, and mine was lucky to be one of them.

Phillip, I am so thankful to have called you my friend. I miss you so much already. Rest easy, man.

Every time I picture Phillip in my mind, he is constantly smiling - a reflection of his true nature. I wasn’t very close with Phillip but every encounter I had with this kind young man felt familiar. He was soft spoken, he responded with eloquence, and he constantly smiled with his eyes. I first met him in Ms. Keeley’s class when I transferred to QHSS as a sophomore. We were conducting an icebreaker in which we had to approach random classmates and get to know them via a series of questions. For whatever reason, the first person I approached was Phillip. Despite not knowing me, he greeted me with an aura of warmth as if we had been friends forever and initiated conversation effortlessly. My heart hurts to think such a pure soul has embarked so early on his journey to peace. In these last few days of Ramadan, I pray for you Phillip and for your loved ones. May they be granted patience and security. May you be granted peace. Ameen Ya Rabb. 

You joined the young men I work with just recently, and we became Facebook friends at your request, so I was looking forward to conversations with you in the next few years. You seemed reserved, like me when I was in college (okay, like me now sometimes), but clearly you had many friends and were enjoying Cornell, a place that can seem awfully large and impersonal. You had found a circle of people since your transfer from a much smaller college. No matter how long I live, even at 65, I will never get used to seeing people leave us too soon -- and 19 is way too soon. May you be at peace, Phil. A lot of people, including me, will miss you.