Mark A. Leja, 35, passed away on Sept. 4, 2025.
He was the beloved son of Stanley and Alexsandra Leja; cherished brother of Peter and Alexander (Aleksandra Slaba); treasured grandson of Maria Swiderski and the late Joseph Swiderski, Stanislaw Leja, and Anna Leja; and loving partner of Keeley Shaw. He will also be remembered by his dear friend Greg Bonello, many aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide circle of friends and colleagues.
Mark built an extraordinary career in film and television, eventually becoming a member of the Directors Guild of America. His credits included The Chi, Shameless, Chicago Med, and Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action, along with numerous commercials and pilots. As a producer, he created award-winning live-action and animated works, including Saudade, Hypothetical, and The Cask of Amontillado. Known for his vision, resourcefulness, and dedication, Mark left a lasting imprint on every set he worked.
A true storyteller at heart, Mark brought that same passion to his personal life. He painted miniatures, wrote music, taught himself guitar, formed a band, and recorded an album. He created animated series, wrote scripts, and poured creativity into every corner of his life. Off set, he loved road trips, film photography, and experimenting with new recipes. A lifelong hobbyist with boundless enthusiasm, Mark inspired those around him to live boldly and without hesitation.
More than his art, Mark will be remembered for his humor, generosity, quick wit, and his endless catalog of facts. His life, though cut far too short, was one of vibrancy, imagination, and love—a legacy that will live on in his work and in the hearts of all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Visitation: Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, from 3 to 7 p.m. at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Ave., Justice.
Funeral: Monday, Sept. 8, 2025, 9 a.m. prayers and procession from the funeral home to St. Patricia Church, 9040 S. 86th Ave., Hickory Hills, for 10 a.m. Mass.
Interment: Resurrection Cemetery, Justice.