Message Board

Ole Stevens

Coach Sternaman was scheduled to manage the 13U Libertyville Orange team this past summer. With the tragic loss of Coach Sternaman, four men stepped up to lead our boys to a wonderful and memorable season. On behalf of the parents and players of the 13U Libertyville Orange team we would like to recognize and thank Manager Tom Carlucci. Not only did Tom teach the boys about the game of baseball, but he took every opportunity to teach them about life and living and playing through adversity. In addition, we would like to recognize and thank Coaches Jim Borcia and Rich Manski for their countless hours, love of the game and personal interest in each one of the players. Finally we would like to thank Coach Brian Whartenaby. Brian is a Libertyville grad who currently attends and plays baseball for Wheaton College. Brian has a gift for coaching and leading young men and has a great future ahead of him. The season began and ended with Coach Sternaman. In the middle, was a summer filled with baseball and family memories. In lieu of a coach’s gift, a donation will be made to the Sterny Way in the name of Coaches Carlucci, Borcia, Manski and Whartenaby. This is an appropriate way to honor the memory of Coach Sternaman and make a donation to the Sterny Way, which is his legacy. Thanks again coaches for a wonderful season!

Garrett Gordon

You have been one of the most influential people in my life.. I carry a small piece of you with me everyday and I will never forget what you taught me. You taught me to play baseball the right way and live life with aggression, respect and dignity

Michael Glickman

I think about you everyday coach. We miss you so much.

Charlie Lehwald

Donna, My thoughts go out to you and your family. I just heard of Gregg's passing today and I cannot tell you enough how sorry I am. He was an amazing human being and a mentor at a critical point in my life as I am sure he was so many others. You may or may not remember me but you and your husband helped greatly to get my life on track some 23 years ago. Best wishes to you and your children. Charlie

AJ Wilton

Your family is in my thoughts

Darlene Tybur

Dear Donna, I am heart broken to hear about your loss. I know how hard it must be on you and your family. My thoughts and prayers are with you

Rory Gordon

It's a disgrace and makes me sick that people are spamming on sterny's website. Can we make this stop? Can we erase these post? Nobody cares about valtrex, lipitor, zyrtec, levitra, etc. This site is in honor of a great man with an even bigger heart. Can someone make this stop and erase these ignorant heartless post? It is humiliating and insulting to those who loved and still love stearny, especially his family and all the children he wants to help!!!! This site is in honor of a great man, not a place to advertise drugs. Whoever is in charge please erase those post!!! Rip sterny. We will all see you one day, wheather it is on the football field, baseball field, or with your loved ones. These post are unacceptable and wrong. This page is to honor a great man that has the heart to make a difference in world. If we could all be like sterny this world would be a better place!  

Andy Zender

RIP Coach, some of my fondest memories are on the baseball field with you. We'll miss you.

Rory Gordon

RIP stearny. You will be missed by many. You were loved by soooo many people. You had such a great impact on my brothers life, mine, and many more. We couldn't be anymore grateful for all the love and support you provided us. We will all pray for you and your family. Once a giant always a giant. I know you were looking down on your family and friends today. We will all see you one day. You ate a hero to many and you will become a bigger hero to many more. We all love you, miss you, and will pray for you. I'm honored and grateful to have spent 10 years as your friend. RIP

Jerry Hubbard

Donna, it's been a long time since I have talked to you & Greg. I have thought of both of you many times over the years. That happens when you become close to people who are so good, heart & soul, asyou & Greg are. I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts & prayers.

Alina Gansca

Sternaman's: You are such a beautiful and loving family. We are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our prayers. the Gansca's

Nancy Marcus

Dear Donna, I found out only this week about Greg. My heart goes out to you and your family. Such a well lived life was way too short. May you find comfort and peace from the family and friends who cherish you.

Adam Faulhaber

I was very sad to hear of the passing of Gregg from my parents, Bob and JoAnn Faulhaber. I remember Gregg as a fun loving man who loved life, family and sports. He possessed such a presence. He always had time for everyone and was so very generous. My thoughts and prayers are with the sternaman family during this rough time. May Gregg rest in peace for eternity. God Bless, Adam Faulhaber.

Dimples Frison

My son Cortney got the opportunity to know Coach Sternaman through four years of amazing football at Highland Park High School. Coach Sternaman was an amazing coach, mentor, and friend to Cortney and I am very grateful. Please accept my family's deepest condolences. And remember, "The sorrow of the faithful is not that of permanent loss, but the tender sense of sadness that comes in saying good-bye for now to someone we love. May today's sorrow give way to the peace and comfort of God's love. Kindest Regards, The Frison Family

Menke Family

Donna, Ellie, and Nick, the Menke family sends their heartfelt wishes and prayers. Our lives are richer for the opportunity to know Gregg and have Jon play for Greg. The Angels will be a powerful team with their new coach. God Bless.

Bernice Burg

Dear Donna, so shocked to hear of your loss. Our deepest condolences go out to you and your family. Bernice and Leonard Burg

Carole Swetow

Dear Donna, I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

Nic Romano

Gregg was my best friend for 35 years. I knew him as "Sterno." We met in 1974 and I've never known a more loyal, honest person in my life. Whenever one of us picked up the phone, it always felt like we just hung up the day before even if months had slipped by. Katie and I have so many great memories of him and Donna and Ellie and Nick which we will treasure forever. His parents (Carl and Dorothy) treated us like their own kids. This isn't goodbye, Gregg. Our love and friendship is forever and we'll catch up someday and drink yaki-daks! And, yes, I know you loved us back. I heard it every time in your voice. That's the beauty in having you as my friend. My best friend.

Bill Mendralla

My son Tony had the privilege to have Coach in his first majors season. I will always remember Gregg's passion for the game and for the kids. And after seeing Nick crush a HR in a recent Fall Ball game a couple months ago, I realize that he saved his best teaching for last. Nick, keep smiling and make your dad proud on the baseball field in the coming years. Sternamann family, you are in our thoughts and prayers. The Mendralla Family

Manski Family

We are so grateful for the opportunity to know Gregg and have him inspire our son, Ben. Donna, Ellie, and Nick: words cannot begin to describe our deepest symphathy and sorrow we feel for your loss. Just know that Gregg's spirit lives within you and is shared among all the people around you. May he rest in peace.

Elaine Cole

Dear Donna, Ellie, and Nick, Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult and painful time. I am sorry I never got to meet your husband and father. He certainly sounds like a great and kind man who will shine through so many lives that he touched. Sincerely, The Cole Family

anthony lucente

i was happy to work with coach alongside him when i helped out hphs r.i.p coach i will miss you

Bagatti Family

Donna, Ellie, & Nick - I had the privilege coaching along side Gregg a few summers ago. By the end of season I learned as good coach he was, he was a better person... Nick- When somebody asks where did you get that beautiful swing. Look them straight in eye and say my Dad taught me. He would like that.. The joyous memories will last a lifetime. God bless

Gutnayer Family

Gregg, I talk to you now because I want to believe that you still hear me. Others have so eloquently spoken about your role in their lives as a baseball, football and life coach. Frankly, my family and I were not even aware of your coaching gift because our children did not play baseball or football. Our relationship with you is one of friendship outside of sports. It is a family to family relationship that started when my wife baby-sat for your children while you worked with Donna at the clothing store or at the Book Stall you. From a simple childcare request a most cherished relationship was born. The dinners, parties, barbeques, travels and Christmas get-togethers are, and always will be, part of our family's being. Thank you, Gregg, for your time spent with our family. Your presence is with us. Talk to you soon... Love Glenn, Kathy, Becky Daniel and Cara Gutnayer

Carlucci Family

Our time with Gregg was brief but the impact he made on our lives will last forever...he will always be remembered. Donna, Ellie and Nick, remember those good times and celebrate his wonderful life. I know one thing for sure...God's already a better bunter. Rest in peace...

Sabrina Wilton

Donna, Ellie, Nick and extended family; You're father was an amazing man and I am grateful to be able to say I knew him. We have all shared a lot of laughs and good times together throughout the years. I am so sorry for your loss. You are a strong family and your love for one another will help you get through this difficult time. May he rest in peace. I love you all.

Keith Gordon

The 3 years I spent with you as your teammate parent will always remain as one of my fondest memories.You will always remain the best!

Lindquist Family

A human life is a story told by God. Coach Sternaman's was one for the ages. We love you Coach our prayers go out to your family. Rest in peace.

Lowecki family

Dearest Donna, Ellie and Nick; We are so sorry to hear that Gregg has passed away. He now has found comfort with his Lord, and may all of you too find comfort holding onto so many great memories of a wonderful father and husband. Our prayers are with you. Love, Joani, Mike, Shaun & Megan

Nault Family

Our hearts ache at the passing of Coach Sternaman. He was truly an inspiration both on and off the field. He left us with many wonderful football memories. To his family, our prayers are with you. His legacy will live on forever. Be at peace Coach.

Rosenberg Family Jordan, Bruce & Cindy

Donna,Ellie and Nick, our family offers our prayers to you after hearing about Gregg's passing. There is a big void in the HP community today.

Loretta Bernardi

There is a void at HPHS and in the Highland Park community that can never be filled. I feel privileged and grateful to have known Gregg as a colleague, friend, and coach to my son. Andrew will always carry with him the life lessons taught by Gregg playing sports the right way - the Sterny Way.

The Curschman Family

Donna, Ellie Nick and extended family: we are so sorry that Gregg has passed away. You continue to be in our prayers. We love you all so much.

Meere family

Dear Donna, Ellie, and Nick - Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this painful time. We couldn't ask for better neighbors. We will always remember Gregg's kindness and positive spirit. Love, Paul, Margo, Danielle, and Gianna

Amy Wilton

My thoughts and prayers go out to you Donna, Ellie and Nick. May Gregg rest in peace. Love you all, Amy

Sonia Barthel-González

I am so sorry about the loss. My prayers and thoughts are with the family and friends who will note his painful absence.

Ferraro Family

Gregg will surely be missed. I'm glad my son Sean had the chance to be coached by him. Donna, Ellie and Nick, you are in our prayers.

Elena Zaremski

May you find peace. My prayers are now with your family.

The Borcia Family

Gregg was a special individual who was selfless and dedicated to helping others -- he will be truly missed -- thank you for coaching Joe and Gregg, Donna,Ellie and Nick you are all in our prayers

Jeffrey Oscar

Coach made me who I am today. Without him I don't know what I would be doing with my life. I first met Sternaman in preschool when I went to school with his daughter Ellie. He talked to me about playing basketball for the park district. He coached for a couple of years after. I then started playing football when I was in fourth grade. At the time you could only play tackle football if you were in fifth grade. I told them that I was in fifth grade. I did really badly that year. I thought football wasn't my sport and I wasn't ever going to play again. Coach came to my house the next year and asked me why aren't signed up to play. I reminded him of how bad I was. He convinced me to come out and play again. That year I played with kids my age and I saw that I wasn't as bad as I thought I was. He believed in me and I was been playing football ever sense. All my success in football is because of Coach. I love you Coach and we all will miss you.

Michael Platt

Hey coach, I hope you know that you and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of many. You motivated so many kids to be their best. You will be remembered forever. God Bless.

Kevin Walsh

Gregg, I am so sorry that I was not able to attend your tribute last Saturday. You are truly a great man who taught us all a great deal about the game of baseball but more importantly how to be a man.

Jo Ann McCann

Gregg,Donna,Ellie and Nick, We are praying for you and wanted to tell you that you are an amazing family. Gregg, you have inspired so many young people. We attended your awesome celebration but we were not able to speak with you- It was so moving to hear stories from so many people whose lives you touched on and off the field. My son,Brendan,will always think of you as someone who had integrity, tenacity, and unending passion for every single game you coached-he admired your sense of fairness and a desire to win!You have given so much of yourself to many kids in our community, Gregg.Thank you for being you! Stay strong and know that we are thinking of you and your family. Michael, Jo Ann, Brendan, and Liam McCann

Adam Max

Hey coach, i know we never got to really bond as much as the other players did on the team. But i remember you as one of the most inspirational coaches ive had. you taught me so much. I'm sorry about everything. Your in my prayers

Jordan Rosenberg

I sit here crying over my textbook as the news about Coach's passing consumes me. What a special man and I pray for his family in this horrible time.

Kevin Walsh

Bryce Codell

Coach, thank you for everything you've taught me as an athlete and as a person. You are the ultimate influence and without you I would not be where I am right now in sports and as a person. I am so thankful to have you as a friend just as much as a coach. I love you and am thinking of you.

Brett Weiss

Hey coach my thoughts and prayers are with you. I cant thank you enough for everything you have taught me on and off the field. You have been the driving force of my motivation for football and life. I was so honored to be the First recipient of your award. I love you and I'm thinking of you

The Plunketts

Gregg, Donna, Ellie, and Nick: We are praying for you!

Michael Feldman

hey coach we are all thinking of you and love you.

sean stevens

Hey, coach I just wanted to say i sorry that i didn't make it to the Sterny Way event. It sound like it was really inspiring. I heard that it raised a lot of money. I had a great time playing for you, I learned so much. I probably inproved the most in that season. Hey Nick maybe we can set up some times to go to Six Flags this summer. Sean and family

The Zoellick Family

Gregg, Donna, Ellie and Nick, You are in our prayers. Gregg, you have touched so many lives, you are an inspiration to us. Dave and Judy Zoellick & Family

Cheryl & Dave Wacnik

Gregg, You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. The Wacnik Family

Mike Glickman

We love ya coach and were all thinking of you

Brian Evans

Coach, a simple message can not do justice to all the ways you have impacted my life. I can honestly say that your presence in my life is one of the main reasons i am now on the roster of a college baseball team. You taught not only me but all of us how to win. The game became about the outcome more so then the individual accomplishments. Because of you we all learned how to place the team first, and go out there and just get the job done. It wasn't always pretty but you didn't care. Getting a compliment from you during a game was truly an unbelievable feeling, because you held us as both players and young men to such a high standard. Of all the great memories I have of you, there is one which I know I will never forget. It happened during the summer before freshman year when we were playing against the Glenview Blaze. In one of the middle innings of the game with a runner on first and less than two outs, there was a high chopper hit to me in the baseline between 1st and 2nd base. I fielded the ball and went to tag the runner so that i could then throw to first base for the double play. Instead of an easy double play the baserunner decided he would run into me throwing his arms up and knocking me down. Your reaction is something I will never forget. Almost instantly, you were up and running towards the umpire and the other coach. Screaming words which i need not write, you made sure the whole place knew that what had just happened was outrageous and wrong. I to this day have never had a coach defend me with such passion. To witness it changed the way i felt about you forever. I can not even describe what it feels like as a player knowing that your coach has your back and is there for you and your team mates. You truly are a special person, and i just wanted to let you know how much i respect and love you. Thank you for all you have done for both me and every player who was blessed with an opportunity to call you his coach.

Max Mendelson

Coach- I have always known that you're a great coach, a great teacher, a great leader; but most of all, you're a great person. Last Saturday just reassured my feelings even more. The amount of people who care about you and whose lives you changed is mind-blowing. I say that because it is very rarely seen that one person can affect so many people's lives for the better, but you managed to do that, which is something that you and your family should be very proud of. Thanks for everything you've done for me, Sam, and my family. You and your family are in my prayers. Max Mendelson

Mary Hershman

Gregg,Donna,Ellie and Nick, All of you are in our thoughts and prayers daily. You are a beautiful family both inside and out. Stay strong! We will keep you in our prayers.

Sam Hershman

Coach, thank you for everything you have done for me. You have truly changed my life for the better, and have taught me values that will help me outside of baseball. My family and I are praying for you. There is no greater honor for me than to say I played baseball for Gregg Sternaman

Susan Brown

Coach, We did not get to speak to you at the fundraiser. Alex as well as the rest of our family are keeping you in our prayers. Thank you for everything.You have made an impact on Alex that will last him his lifetime. The Browns

Edward Solger

Greg, I have umpired a few of your games an what you do with this kids is truly amazing. Nothing better than being an Umpire an looking over at a happy dugout winning or losing, happier winning of course, when Jay Zimmerman sent me the email from Jimmy Knotek, I couldn't resist helping. Keep up the great work you do.

Richard Tolan

Gregg, I have so many memories of you in Baseball and Wrestling and want to Thank you again for teaching my boys to play the game the right way - Laying it all out on every play, every moment and never sugar coating anything. When my son went on to play college baseball he always looked forward to coming back home to see you during winter break. Every time someone mentioned your name it would put the biggest smile on all our faces. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. Thanks again for all the life’s lessons you have taught my boys. With much love and eternally grateful.

Susan Berk

Gregg, there's something else I wish I would have said last night. Looking around the room and seeing all of "our kids" there made us all so proud. Sometimes teenagers can be so self absorbed and selfish with their time - but last night, they knew where they needed and wanted to be. Their hearts were in the right place . What a tribute to you! We can attribute that to good upbringing. Combined parenting from all of us parents - and you! The other thing I want to add is a thank you from a mom's perspective on what you said last night. Your words about Donna were so beautiful, you brought us all to tears. You were still coaching and teaching our boys what's most important in life. Choosing their future mate will be one of the most challenging and rewarding decisions they will ever make. They will never forget hearing those words coming from you. . . thank you.

Rick Johnston

Coach, thank you for the countless memories that you helped make during my junior high and high school years. Your strong work ethic and constant determination helped shape me into both a better player and a better man. The passion and drive for success you showed both on and off the field is a true testament to the incredible character you have. It is a honor to have played for you, and I am proud to call you my coach

Carla Meisterman

Gray C., Congratulations on being loved and respected and appreciated by so many people. I am so sad that we could not be there to see your face as you are surrounded by so many people whose lives you have touched.I am proud of you for the way you have given so much of yourself - and thrilled that you get to see it poured right back on you with great love. My heart is with you tonight and my prayers surround you! I love you more than words can say! Sooie-Sowie

Frank Pavelske

Coach, thank you so much for being my coach for baseball. I learned a lot about baseball because of you. Take care, Ethan Pavelske

Molly Kilmer

Uncle Greg, I am so pround of you and all that you have accomplished! Thank you for all of your help and support with Jared and I. You are an amazing man, and I'm proud to say that you're my uncle! Love, Molly

Jeff Copeland

Greg, Sorry we can't make tonight's event. Know that our thoughts and prays are with you. Keep up the good fight.

Jeanette MacMurdo

Hi Greg and family I'll be with you in spirit tonight. Have a great time! We're all thinking and praying for you. Aunt Jeanette

Fred Johnston

Gregg--Annette and I have appreciated and respected the work that you have done with Rick. I can't tell you how many HP baseball and football players have spoken of you. When they have talked about you, it has been a combination of laughter, some disbelief, some amazement, and above all abiding respect.

Carol Stokowski Gibson

Have a Great Evening! Thinking of all of you!

Kyle Baby

Sorry we can’t be there Saturday, Gregg. TSA had a problem with my home-monitoring bracelet and wouldn’t let me board the plane. Gotta roll before my neighbor comes out and busts me borrowing his Wi-Fi. I love you, Man!

Keith Gordon gordon

My boys played ball in HP for almost 20 years combined. You were and will always remain the best there was!

Harvey Weiss

Gregg, Look forward to seeing you on Saturday. Harvey

Susan, Mitch, Jared and Matthew

Gregg. . . In the spring and summer of baseball - we think of you. In the fall of football - we think of you. In the winter of family celebrations - we think of you. Through the years, you have been a "Giant" presence in our lives. Every day, throughout the changing of the seasons - we think of you. . . with love in our hearts.

Janet Richardson

HI Gregg and all, sure wish we could join you all, but we will have to make the next one. Love to you all, Janet, & Don

Sterny Way Cheeseheads

We Love you Gregg!!! See you Saturday nite. Todd, Cindy, Andrew, David

the behms

Looking forward to Saturday night! It will be great to celebrate the passion that you have shown others all of these years. And the Sternyisms - now we know where Nick gets some of his great lines!

Ned Miller

Looking forward to Sat. nite . My family is there for you!!

Hallie Hubbard Galvalisi

Uncle Gregg - There is a saying that I hold very dear to my heard, and it has gotten me through many dark places: "We are all eternal". Uncle Gregg, you will be eternal in the hearts and minds of so many of the people you have touched. What an awesome thing to have so many people gather to celebrate you! I can only hope that my actions in life effect those around me in the way yours have. It is not often that a person leaves a legacy in the way that you have. Leave it to a Sternaman! My hope is that you, Aunt Donna, Ellie, Nick, and Grannie have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. You more than anyone deserve it. Much love from your neice & new nephew! - John and Hallie Galvalisi

jerry logan

I am the father of Pamela Carol Whitaker and I taught Donna in high school. I love Donna and I would love her family.I enjoyed the sternyisms and can picture them being said. What a wonderful teacher Gregg must be. I pray for your family and send love and regards.

nancy randall

I'm having trouble donating and making reservations. There will be two of us coming on Saturday

Mike Bailen

I look forward to seeing you this Saturday coach. Be well.

Marcia and Mike Lyman

Thanks for many great years of coaching Evan. Sorry that we will not be able to make it to this wonderful event in your honor, but we know that you will face this challenge with strength and determination.

Bob & JoAnn Faulhaber

What good work you do! Looking forward to seeing you in December.

Debbie Drewery

Hi Greg and Donna, I'm Carla's friend and just wanted you to know that I think the Foundation will multiply and bless so many kids. Bless you and your family for this unselfish endeavor. Debbie Drewery

Debbie Drewery

Hi Greg and Donna, I'm Carla's friend and just wanted you to know that I think the Foundation will multiply and bless so many kids. Bless you and your family for this unselfish endeavor. Debbie Drewery

Dan Iacch

Sterny, you have been a role model for me since I met you.

Pappas Family

Greg, We are keeping you, Donna and the kids in our prayers. All our love, Margaret, Mary and Gloria

Bonnie McColl

Congratulations on OHIO STATE Gregg! So much more fun to watch than Michigan......

Jared & Matthew

Hey Sterny...We understand that you're going through a rough time. We just wanted you to know that we're thinking about you, and we know if anyone can get through this, it will be you. Tell Nick if he ever wants to talk with his "older brothers" he can call us any time. Love, Jared & Matthew

Eric Kaufmann

Coach Sternaman: You instilled a model of what it takes to be successful on the field...a strong work ethic, passion for the game, and hustle! It was a pleasure to learn and be motivated by one of the best for three years. Your intensity was matched by none, yet you always had our best interest at hand. Never more evident than when you attended the travel baseball games I was coaching the past few summers to check in on me. Your lessons did not just apply to the field, but to life in general.

Kathy Gutnayer

Greg, Donna, Ellie & Nick we're thinking of you always and we send you much love. The Gutnayer family

The Goldstein Family

Greg, you are the man!!! For the tough love that you showed our child and for the man he has become, we will forever be grateful. We love you Greg and can't wait to share the evening with you.

The Codell Family

Gregg, Thank you for your inspiring "pay it forward" philosophy filled with that Sterny zeal. Your positive impact on kids and their families is everpresent. We are grateful to you and can't wait to celebrate with you on the 28th. We love you!

Steve Salinas

Hey Scrappy! I'm there my man!

Tony Tichy

Look forward to the evening and seeing first hand the impact you have not only made on me but everyone you have coached over the years!

The Raskin's

Gregg, We can't wait to honor you. Thanks for the impact you've had with Teddy in football and baseball! You've taught him a lot.

Bruce Meisterman

Gregg, A man should not be measured by the wealth he has earned; rather he should be measured by the friendships he has earned. That is true wealth. And you have indeed many good and strong friendships. You are in our thoughts always.

Karen Rose

Hey Gregg, Steve and I are so looking forward to the 28th. You are an amazing guy. We love you!