Leon Kozlowski passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025, at Burgess Square in Westmont, Illinois. He was 88.
Born on November 21, 1936, in Janów Lubelski, Poland, Leon’s life journey took him from his homeland to the United States, where he built a life rooted in family, hard work, and tradition.
He was the beloved husband of the late Mary Kozlowski and the loving father of Dorothy (Mark) Urban, Daniel (Kelly) Kozlowski, and the late Joanne Kozlowski. He was a devoted dziadzio to his grandchildren: Matthew, Monika, Lucas, and Jack, who will remember him for his playful spirit and constant presence in their lives.
Leon was the cherished twin brother of Helena Rabinska and was preceded in death by his brothers Piotr, Mieczysław, Jan, Marian, and Stanisław. He was also a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many across the U.S. and Europe.
He served in the Polish Air Force as an airplane mechanic and later immigrated to Chicago, where he worked as a skilled machinist in several factories throughout the city. Leon was respected for his precision, strong work ethic, and the friendships he built with coworkers—many of whom remained lifelong friends.
Leon loved fishing and found peace by the water. He nurtured a flourishing garden and took pride in his homemade Polish sausage and dill pickles, sharing them generously with family and friends. His culinary creations were made with care and a deep connection to his Polish roots.
Leon will be remembered for his zest for life, his humor, and the love he poured into everything he did. His legacy lives on in the stories he told, the values he passed on, and the family he cherished.
Visitation was held Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral prayers began at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Gerald Church, 9310 S. 55th Court, Oak Lawn, Illinois.
Interment followed at Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Illinois.