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It's not every day that a man dies of cancer, but that's exactly what happened to 76-year-old James Hajek of Brookfield, Ill.
He died July 11 at his home, surrounded by his family, after a long battle with the disease, reports the Chicago Tribune.
Hajek had been a teacher for 33 years, starting at Hinsdale Central High School where he met his wife of 53 years, Elaine, on the first day of school, both as new teachers.
They were married on the last day of school that same year.
They both retired, and he spent the rest of his teaching career at another high school in the graphic arts program.
"He spent the rest of his career at Morton high schools in the graphic arts program and Elaine followed as a math teacher until they both retired," his daughter tells the Tribune.
"Many of his students became lifelong friends and he often said he'd go back to teaching tomorrow."
His greatest achievement was his grandchildren, who called him "Pa," his daughter says.
"His greatest joy was watching them grow and sharing their daily lives together."
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A customized collection of grant news from foundations and the federal government from around the Web.
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Social Entrepreneurship
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When it Comes to Social Enterprises, Failure is the Best Platform for Innovation
In the world of social enterprises, failure is a cringe-worthy moment nobody wants to talk about. But, social entrepreneurs can benefit from their failures.
