Leonard Krolikowski

It is with great sadness & much love that we mourn the passing of Leonard J. Krolikowski who was sent to his eternal home on April 8, 2025. Len was born September 24, 1949 in Chicago, Illinois to the late Eugene R. & Virginia M. Krolikowski.

Len is survived and missed by his cherished wife Wanda M. Krolikowski of Cape Coral, FL, and his children; Son, Sean A. Krolikowski (retired AF Lieutenant Colonel) & wife Shannon (retired AF Master Sergeant) of Colorado Springs, CO; and Daughter, Michele B. Christensen of Mokena, IL. His former Air Force spouse, Shevawn Krolikowski preceded him in death.

Known as Papa to his grandchildren, his memory will live on through Amberlyn (Michael), Kyle (Courtney), Hannah, Logan, & Seth (aka Faye). Len also treasured his great-grandchildren Gavin, Grace, Gabriel & Baby Gianna.

His beloved siblings will dearly miss him: Mary Lou (Tom) Grabenstetter & Richard (Danelle Scarlett) Krolikowski. He was preceded in death by his much-loved brother, Gene Krolikowski (Carin). Numerous nephews, nieces, grandnephews and grandnieces will miss Uncle Lenny as well.

Len served in the Air Force as an Aircraft Electrical Repair Technician during the Vietnam War Era from 1970-1974 and continued to be a strong member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars & the American Legion until his passing. He began his career with Illinois Bell/AT&T and was a proud member of the IBEW until his early retirement in 1995. He continued using his specialized technical skills while working in the SW Gulf Coast area of Florida as a Fire Prevention Inspector.

At a young age Len practiced the Catholic doctrine and received all of his sacraments. He continued pursuing a lifelong spiritual journey in Christianity and religious studies through the Bible and traditions in his Judaic roots. Spirit led him through prayer & growing faith to attend Beth Yeshua Messianic Synagogue in Ft. Myers, FL. Len developed a firm foundation with divine inner guidance as he entered his eternal home of Promise and Grace.

Len dedicated his life to hard work, endurance & simple pleasures with those he loved most. He enjoyed football, traveling, skiing, golf, Sci-fi & especially food. He was very proud of his Lithuanian/Polish heritage and enjoyed visiting various ethnic restaurants when visiting the Chicagoland area. In his later years he transitioned into spending his time gardening and mastering his landscaping talents at home.

Len will be interred to rest at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL on May 30th, 2025 at 12:30pm. Visitation will occur at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Mokena, IL from 9-11am. The family honors his military service to his country inviting all who would like to attend this memorial.

Len will be remembered for his quiet strength, warm smile, and the deep love he had for his family. His absence leaves a void that will be felt deeply but his spirit and the love he shared will always remain. Len rests in the Trinity of SHALOM - Amen.

Donations In lieu of flowers are requested for the following: Hearts & Homes for Veterans