Wedding Party

Raymond Paul Konz-Krzyminski

GROOM

Raymond is the youngest of six children in the late Estelle and late Raymond Konz Milwaukee Polish/German-American family—in order +Richard, Mary El, +Michael, Genie and Patty and then in 1954, Raymond. His earliest vocational interest was to be a Catholic priest and this led to four years of schooling /training. He later served in the US Navy as a Chaplain's Assistant on USS Independence (CV62). Afterwards he found a niche in the hospitality industry and prided himself in being an accomplished gourmet waiter at The English Room in Hotel Pfister, Milwaukee. During this time, he found a remarkable life partner with two children and also had a significant life changing experience. As a result, he was able to go to college and grad school concurrently during his hospitality career. He was eventually hired as a MSW at Zablocki VA Hospital and had varied and exceptional responsibilities there. Returning to his parents' duplex that he grew up in on South Layton Boulevard in Milwaukee he spent years there being a caregiver for multiple relatives. He retired from the VA in 2020 and was widowed in 2021. In the last four years he has made the lower flat his own. Son, Jeff lives in the upper flat. And now he and his husband, Chuck (and the boycat, Joshua) are looking forward to making this their home following their wedding.

Charles David Hyams

GROOM

Chuck is son of Rita Geller and the late Arthur Hyams and brother of Martin. He was born and grew up in the Edgewater Neighborhood of Chicago. Chuck enjoyed playing hockey and swim team while living in the city. He developed a love of the arts, design, and creative pursuit from his grandfather, Philip Geller who was a custom gold leaf designer and manufacturer of frames, clocks and sundials. His mother introduced him to Chicago area museums, the Botanical Gardens and cultural institutions. Through these he developed his innate appreciation of nature, design and creative pursuits. He had a passion for sketching, photography, watercolor and especially an interest in Architecture. This lead him to studies at Syracuse University. He graduated with a Bachelor of Landscape Architecture. He spent a semester studying in England and Ireland. Upon return to the Chicago area he began a career in designing high-end residential landscapes with projects throughout the country and for the last decade he has been with Martin John Company in Libertyville. He loves travel that keeps him excited, passionate and motivated--especially historical areas and cities on the east and west coast and returning yearly to Door County where his family spent 2 weeks every summer since he was 8 years old. He is active in his professional organizations giving back to new students by mentoring and teaching. He is now thrilled to be learning, sharing and exploring all aspects of life with Raymond.

Brian Culliton

BEST MAN/WITNESS

Chuck's choice for Best Man/Wedding Witness has been his dear and close friend for over 30 years and now Raymond’s as well. Brian’s talent and drive led him and his college friend to start Culliton Quinn, a Chicago-based landscape architecture studio over 20 years ago. Brian and Chuck met in the last century😜 teaching on the Landscape Illinois design committee. Both being Landscape Architects they have a passion for all designed landscape environments. But beyond that, it's apparent that they have both grown in love and respect for each other. Years ago Brian met a lovely girl, Amy. They courted, married and now have three beautiful and kind-hearted children. All of them have become close and trusted “family” to Chuck. Because of Chuck's feeling of their close and wonderful bond he told Raymond that he wanted Brian and Amy's kids as members of their wedding party and Brian as Best Man. Raymond was concerned if it may be payback time when he thought of Chuck asking him for the favor remembering the following interesting story Brian once shared. Brian, just out of school (and long before he and Chuck met) called the landscape company Chuck was with at the time and got to speak with Chuck--he said he practically begged for a position--even as for an unpaid intern. Chuck's response was an unabashedly, "Ah, no, sorry". Needless to say, Chuck and Raymond were thrilled when they all graciously agreed to being part of the wedding party.

Cara Becker

GROOMSWOMAN

Cara is a Native New Yorker. She attended Syracuse University the same college that Chuck did although they didn't know each other in those days. They met in business and have had the unique ability to turn a professional relationship into a deep personal one. They became close friends sharing their love and respect of nature, design and culture as it related to natural and designed landscapes. Collaborating together on several residential landscape designs each focused on detail, composition and rich colors and textures. Cara's favorite colors of pink, blue and purple were always integrated and carefully selected and chosen for a rich tapestry. Chuck was immediately impressed with and appreciated Cara's unique and well crafted artistic flair and style. Cara was and had to be one of the first friends that Chuck introduced Raymond to. She also was the first Chuck went to when having thoughts of marriage. Cara and Chuck have been dear friends for over 40 years and now a close friend of Raymond's. She is the proud and loving mother to 5 amazing adult sons and currently resides in the Highland Park, IL area. She is happy to be part of Chuck's and Raymond's emerging family. They are grateful for their friendship especially sharing in joy and laughter and kindness with this lovely lady.

Liza Kastelic

BEST WOMAN/WITNESS

Liza is a well respected psychiatrist at Johns Hopkins, Baltimore and devoted to her patients. She is an enthusiastic sports fan--mostly all that is Wisconsin--including her alma mater, UW-Madison. Always inquisitive and loving to learn--her studies have been at Divine Savior Holy Angels in Milwaukee, Emory in Atlanta, Western Psych in Pittsburgh and Bethlehem Royal Hospital in London amongst others. She is also Raymond's Halloween Birthday Partner. Being the youngest in his family he was sad to have no younger siblings so when his eldest sister's first baby arrived on his birthday it was and still is one of the biggest joys of his life. He still loves celebrating their Halloween birthday together--always remembering the bewitching hour as they both were born just before midnight. Agreeing to be Best Woman/Wedding Witness is another joy she brings. It's hard not to list something positive about Liza but one of her most admirable characteristics is that she is spiritually forever young, always finding interest in life's beauty and situations. As her Grandma Konz would say, "She's the youngest of them all!"

Jeffrey Krzyminski

GROOMSMAN

Jeffrey or affectionately referred to as "Rooney" is the son of the late Gregory Konz-Krzyminski and Cathleen Bourdon and younger sibling to Jill Stanton. He is also Raymond’s upstairs neighbor and "favorite" stepson and now becoming Chuck's as well. He has always been a cat parent and is currently civilizing a Tabby cat named Raisin. But probably his most important role is "Uncle Jeff" to Eleanor Rose. When Eleanor, now 11 was just becoming verbal she proudly announced to him that he was her BFF which made Jeff exclaim, "I am? Well then Eleanor, you're my BFF too." Jeff graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from Northeastern Illinois University. He moved to Milwaukee from Evanston, IL over 15 years ago and has been a Federal Employee for most of that time as a well respected and most reliable Food Service Worker at Zablocki VA Hospital Milwaukee. Having a father who was a culinary professional and educator, a mother who is a food enthusiast and excellent home cook and a sister who is an exceptional baker it's easy to see how Jeff became a deliciously creative cook as well.

Eleanor Rose Stanton

FLOWER GIRL

Eleanor lives in Cary, IL with her mom and dad, Jill and Charles Stanton and grandmother, Cathleen Bourdon. She is granddaughter to the late Gregory Konz-Krzyminski. On June 6, she celebrated her 11th birthday. Eleanor is in the 5th grade at Davinci Waldorf School, Wauconda, IL. Her studies include Mandarin and Handwork--priding herself in knitting and crocheting. She is a naturally creative thinker which helps her progress in all around learning. Eleanor has been devoted to her weekly dance and gymnastics classes. Being a passionate gymnast, dancer and music maker she loves to entertain. "Rosie" (as her Dziadzia, Raymond calls her) is a joy to be with and because of her wonderful sense of humor is oodles of fun. She is a kind young lady and her thoughtfulness makes her golden. She enjoys swimming and being out in and part of nature whether it's saving the monarchs, climbing a tree or sliding around on a piece of ice she finds in the driveway. She is a proud animal parent and responsibly cares for them. Eleanor is Raymond’s sole and most darling granddaughter. Chuck is enjoying becoming a grandpa to her too.

Hattie Jeanne Ivy

FLOWER GIRL

Hattie is Raymond’s cousin and a beloved member of the Szeflinski family through her great grandmother, Hattie (Harriet) Szeflinski. She turned 11 on February 26 and is a fifth-grade student at Star of Bethlehem School in New Berlin, WI. A talented and accomplished young lady, Hattie plays piano and participates in basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, soccer, and softball. She has a deep appreciation for the performing arts and has previously appeared as a swan with the Milwaukee Ballet's production of The Nutcracker at the Performing Arts Center, Milwaukee. Hattie shares a special connection with her namesake--her great grandmother, whose spirited presence she proudly carries forward. Family is of great importance to Hattie, and she treasures time spent with both her immediate and extended family, valuing the close relationships that unite generations. Chuck is delighted to also become a part of the extended Szeflinski family, and all are honored to have Hattie serve as flower girl on this joyous and memorable occasion.

Charlie Callahan

RING BEARER

Chuck's namesake.  Charlie is a vibrant 9-year-old with a passion for sports, learning, and adventure. On the field, he shines as a dedicated athlete, playing recreational soccer where he loves chasing the ball and working with his teammates, and competitive club lacrosse where his speed, agility, and stick skills make him a standout player. Off the field, Charlie is a natural whiz at math and science. He excels in both subjects, often diving into challenging problems, experiments, and puzzles with enthusiasm and impressive insight far beyond his years. Whether solving complex equations or exploring scientific concepts, he approaches everything with curiosity and a sharp mind. At just nine, Charlie balances his love for competition and academics with a fun-loving spirit, always ready for the next game, discovery, or laugh with friends and family. He's a well-rounded kid with a bright future ahead! Charlie is son of Jim and Joy Callahan--former colleague and dearest friends of Chuck's and now Raymond's too. And both are honored that Charlie is a member of their wedding party.

Jimmy Callahan

RING BEARER

Meet Jimmy. Jimmy is Charlie's big brother. He is first son of Jim and Joy Callahan--former colleague and dearest friends of Chuck's and now Raymond's too. Jimmy is a dedicated 11 year-old with a passion for soccer, family, and faith. As an avid club soccer player, he competes in tournaments across the nation, bringing energy, skill, and determination to every match. Family and faith are at the heart of who he is. He cherishes time with his loved ones and is an active member of his church community, where he continues to grow in his values and character. With his competitive spirit, strong work ethic, and caring nature, Jimmy is a young athlete who makes his family proud both on and off the field. Raymond and Chuck are honored that Jimmy is a member of their wedding party.

Tommy Szeflinski

GREETER/USHER

Tommy is son of Bill and Kathy Szeflinski, twin brother to Andrea and dear cousin of Raymond's. He is a senior and track athlete at South Milwaukee High School and a talented musician. He will attend UWM in Fall. His area of interest to study is Mechanical Engineering and plans on going into ROTC.

Ayden Culliton

GREETER/USHER/READER

Ayden is the eldest of the "Culliton Kids" (Brian and Amy's) who hold a special place in Chuck's heart. Ayden is a sophomore at Whitney M. Young HS in Chicago, member of the Junior Varsity Soccer team and PSG soccer team. He loves music, skiing, lake activities and hanging out with friends.

Briden Culliton

GREETER/USHER

Briden is the second eldest of the "Culliton Kids" who hold a special place in Chuck's heart. Briden is a freshman at Whitney M Young HS in Chicago. He is an avid baseball player, is a member of the Chicago Slugger's travel 15U team and training to be on the Whitney Young team in Spring. He is very passionate about all sports, loves skiing, lake fun and hanging with friends.

Gabriel Raymond Konz

GREETER/USHER

Gabe is Raymond's grandnephew and now Chuck's too. He is 11 years old, son of Tony Konz and Suzy Buelow and brother to Noelle. He is in 5th grade at Milwaukee’s Spanish Immersion School, so say Ola! when you meet. He enjoys Math, playing soccer and dogs, especially his new puppy, Mona. He likes action and adventure video games with friends and mostly his papa. And enjoys board games with Auntie Genie. Chuck was happy that Gabe's 8th Birthday Party was the first time he met the Konz family.

Andrea Szeflinski

GREETER/GUESTBOOK ATTENDANT

Andrea is Raymond's treasured cousin and now Chuck's. She is daughter of Bill and Kathy Szeflinski and twin sister to Tommy. Andrea is a senior at South Milwaukee High School and a talented musician, lover of the art community in Milwaukee and robotics designer in which she competes in national competitions. She has a clever and entertaining sense of humor. Andrea is preparing to enter UWM in the fall and studying biomedical studies for pre-med.

Sienna Culliton

GREETER/GUESTBOOK ATTENDANT

Sienna is the youngest of the "Culliton Kids" (Brian and Amy's) who always hold a special place in Chuck's heart. Sienna is in 6th grade at Jonathan Burr in Chicago. She has been on the Ensemble Competitive Dance Team at Definition Dance Academy for several years and loves dance. She also participates in several sports at Burr including volleyball, cross country, track and cheerleading. Sienna also loves skiing, lake life and spending time with friends.

Janet Cherbak

HONOR ATTENDANT/READER

Janet came into Chuck’s life over 40 years ago when each of them started their first jobs as Landscape Architects. She possesses a kindness and compassion that brought them together as well as a most playful character for fun and adventure. Chuck roughed it by going on his first camping trip with Janet. She also introduced Chuck to the Grateful Dead making sure they attended their concerts. She has two beautiful children, is a creative cook and all pursuits of art and design. Janet continues to be a cherished and close friend to Chuck and now Raymond .

Rita Geller

CHUCK'S MOTHER

Rita is originally from NYC but spent most of her life in Chicago and now a resident of Milwaukee. Her career as a Medical Administrative Assistant was one she is proud of and rightly so as she was highly valued by her employers. Her attention to detail and respect for nature and beauty are traits that Chuck has made his own. She takes great pride in her appearance and enjoys all that is lovely. She loves to read and watch Golf. She's always up to going for a nice ride and enjoy a meal and conversation. Raymond’s grateful for a cherished and loving relationship with his new Mother-in-law🤗

Rabbi Ari Margolis

OFFICIANT

Rabbi Ari Margolis has been a kind and welcoming spiritual advisor to Chuck and his mother. He has helped Raymond and Chuck with their interfaith spiritual development and preparation for marriage. He has been with Congregation Or Shalom, Vernon Hills, IL since 2015. He is quick with a smile, ready to listen and primed for jumping in and supporting his congregation's spiritual journeys. Prior to his time at Or Shalom, he served Temple Beth Or in Raleigh, NC as the associate rabbi and educator, where he re-energized the religious school program, created connections, and innovated new programming. Rabbi Margolis earned his undergraduate degree from Northwestern University in the field of chemical engineering. Though he is no longer spending his days tinkering with differential equations, he enjoys trying to engineer a sense of community, learning, and tikkun olam (healing the world) wherever possible. Ever the optimist, Rabbi Margolis also patiently awaits the time in which his beloved Cubs will enter the Promised Land of another World Series. Rabbi Margolis and his wife, Rachel, who is also a talented Jewish educator, are parents of three daughters – Laila, Adaya, and Eliora.

Laurie Akers

CANTOR

Cantor Laurie Akers proudly serves as the Cantor of Congregation Or Shalom in Vernon Hills, IL. She is a nationally acclaimed Jewish Rock Radio artist whose songs are published in seven anthologies. She is the founder of the Jewish Rock Radio - Chicago Sings concert series and hosts her own Jewish Rock Radio program, Pathways to Prayer, and the online Jewish music series, Shir Chadah. She is a member of the Shul Sisters, whose performances include headlining the 2021 International Lion of Judah Conference, the JUF of Chicago Women’s Gala with Diane Von Furstenberg, the Neranenah/Atlanta Jewish Music Festival, the Jews4Joe Inauguration Party featuring Mayim Bialik, the Illinois Holocaust Museum’s Humanitarian Awards with President George Bush, the Sheba Medical Center’s LA gala featuring Modi and JDCA Path to Victory program featuring Nancy Pelosi. Cantor Akers was among the four cantors who participated in the historical 2021 Hampton Synagogue’s Thanksgiving weekend concert in which female cantors were invited to sing on their bima for the first time. She is currently working with Israeli producers, Izzy Gliksberg and Meir Briskman, on the “Niggun Project”, an album fusing traditional melodies and electronica. She has released numerous singles and one album, The Key of We, which can be found on all major music platforms. Laurie lives in Deerfield, IL with her husband, Brad, and sons, Levi, Ashton and Isaac. 

Lyudmila Lakisova

PIANIST for ceremony

Highly sought after Chicago-based chamber musician, piano collaborator, and pedagogue Lyudmila Lakisova has performed in many well-known venues, such as Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY, Harris Theater in Downtown Chicago, Bennett Gordon Hall at Ravinia, and Carnegie Hall, as well as internationally in Belarus, Russia, Germany, China, and Italy, and toured extensively in England with violinist Drostan Hall and in Africa and Asia with Trio Chicago & Friends. She has given performances in the Steinway Society Concert series and Stradivari Society She has been a featured soloist and ensemble performer with many orchestras in the Chicago area In addition to her successful solo and chamber career, she has become well known in Chicago music circles as a collaborative pianist, accompanist, and chamber coach. She has collaborated with many conductors, singers and musicians. Lyudmila is also a chamber music coach at Midwest Young Artists Conservatory, pianist for the Chicago Master Singers, piano faculty at the New Music School, part-time pianist at Northwestern University, accompanist for Chicago Music Pathway Initiative, and an accompanist at New Trier High School in Winnetka, Illinois. Born in Minsk, Belarus, Lyudmila received her master’s degree in Piano Performance, Pedagogy, and Chamber Music, and later a doctoral degree in Collaborative Piano from Belorussian State Conservatory of Music.

Shep Crumrine

CELLIST

Shep began playing cello in 4th grade in the string program in the Glen Ellyn IL school music program. He began private lessons in 6th grade, studying with Marijane Siegal who played with Lyric Opera of Chicago and studied with her through high school and played in grade school and high school orchestras. He went to Knox College and studied with Janis Potamka-Wilkinson, principal cellist with the Peoria Symphony and played with the Knox-Galesburg Symphony. While briefly living in New Jersey he played with the Garbien Chamber Orchestra. He went to grad school at Illinois State University and while there studied with Ko Iwasaki and played with the ISU Symphony, the Peoria Symphony, Peoria Opera, and Kankakee Symphony. Living in Milwaukee since 1989 he has played with the Kenosha Symphony, the Milwaukee Summer Philharmonia under Ralph Lane, the Concord Chamber Orchestra under Jamin Hofman, the Black Diaspora Symphony Orchestra under Dayvin Halmon and also with the Impromptu String Quartet. Most recently he has has played with a Violins for Hope Chamber Orchestra, various chamber groups and weddings. Shep excelled as a Neurologic Music Therapist for 40 years. It was during his career at Zablocki VA Medical Center that Raymond met him and had the honor of collaborating with him in facilitating a Chronic Pain Group for Recovering Addicts. Shep retired from the Milwaukee VA Medical Center in 2020.

Kathy Szeflinski

Mistress of Ceremonies

Kathy was the first of Raymond's folk that knew there was a Chuck shortly before Labor Day weekend 2022. An invitation came immediately for them to come over and have him check out some family and the other way around. It was a success and the rest is history. Kathy, a Szeflinski by marriage in 1992 to Raymond's dear "older" 🤣 cousin Billy easily finds her way into everyone's heart--especially Chuck's. There's always a smile and always a kind word and a fine example of living the right path. Plus she's not afraid to get colorful with her perfect soulful laughter.

Michelle Klotz

PIANIST and Musician for luncheon