Leonard Kezis

Leonard "KZ" Kezis, of Mokena, Illinois, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on May 6, 1936, in Chicago to Aldona and Bruno Kezis, Len built a life defined by hard work and devotion to family.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Carol, his sister Laverne Seeman, his parents, Aldona and Bruno, and his son-in-law, Joseph Connolly.

Len is survived by his loving children: Sandra (the late Joseph) Connolly, Leonard Kezis Jr., Joyce (Gregory) Dasher, and Carolyn (Jerry) Stoklosa. He was the proud grandfather of Carol Ann and Joe Connolly, Jamie and Jacob Kezis, Matthew Dasher, Tyler, Zachary (Phoebe), and Haley Stoklosa, and was blessed to also be a great-grandfather. He was a fun Uncle to many nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Chicago Vocational High School, Len attended trade school and continued working at Roseland Auto Body, where he started at just 15 years old. He was a talented auto body technician who always had a project car in his garage. Len welcomed neighborhood kids into his garage, teaching them about cars and the skills of his trade. Many returned years later to thank him for the lessons and encouragement he had given them.

In 1957, Len married the love of his life, Carol Jurek, after meeting her in West Pullman. Together, they raised their family in Calumet Park before moving to Mokena in 1981.

KZ enjoyed bartending, first at Burks Tavern in Calumet Park, where he was part of the Burks Sportsman's Club. Later, as the beloved bartender of the Mokena VFW, where he was bar chairman. Through his 89 years, a lifetime of loyal friends were made.

A man who worked hard but knew how to enjoy life, Len filled his home and yard with cars, projects, and toys. He had a passion for snowmobiling and Len's favorite toy was a dune buggy he built with the Budweiser logo on the side. The dune buggy could be seen filled with clowns in many Cal Park parades. He always had something fun in motion.

He was a passionate Chicago Blackhawks fan who enjoyed going to hockey games, and a loyal supporter of the Bears and the White Sox. Some of his favorite memories were taking his children on vacations to explore new roller coasters together.

Whether he was Len, Lenny, KZ, Dad or Pa to you....he will be remembered with a Bud in his hand and chewing on a cigar. His generosity and his sarcasm brought people together-whether in his garage, behind the bar, or at family gatherings. His legacy of hard work and fun will live on through his children, grandchildren, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 20, 2025, 3:00-8:00 PM at Vandenberg Funeral Home, 19604 Wolf Road, Mokena, IL. 60448. Funeral, Friday November 21, 2025, 9:30 AM at the Funeral Home to St. Mary Catholic Church for Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 AM. Interment to follow in St. Mary Catholic Cemetery, Mokena.