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Blake Lamb Funeral Home - Oak Lawn

4727 West 103rd Street

Oak Lawn, Illinois

Lee Kowalski Obituary

Kowalski, Lee J. "Papa" 73. Beloved father of Laura (George) Lustro and Susan (Jay) Karlson; cherished grandfather of Amy (Eddie), Lindsey, John, Katelyn (Joseph), Kenn, Mary, Olivia, Hannah and Madeline; dear brother of Dorothy (the late Bob) Dillon, Pauline Heiderman and the late Madeline McCorkal. Lee is survived by many loving nieces, nephews, relatives and dear friends. Retired Chicago Firefighter for 34 years, Truck #16. Funeral Tuesday, 11:00 a.m., Blake-Lamb Funeral Home, 4727 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation Monday 3:00 - 9:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, all memorials can be made to Chicago Firefighter Widow & Orphan Fund. For info please call 708-636-1193 or visit www.blakelamboaklawn.com.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jul. 20, 2014.
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Memories and Condolences
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My thoughts and prayers go out to the family.I remember meeting Lee when I was a young fireman assigned to truck 15 . My first impression of him was what a nice guy then to find out that he was the artist that did all the paintings was so impressive. A few years later I ran into him and he asked me if I still had my red 62 impala and told me he was buying one to restore I told him I had alot of information he could use and gave it to him.his talent didn't end as a artist he went into that project with passion and determination .Lee was everywhere whether donating his time, doing a painting ,restoring that chevy, being there for his family and inspiring kids with unbelievable talent.and one he'll of a fireman.may god be with him. LOVE And peace. Reed and Vicki Reilly

Reed Reilly

July 23, 2014

I only knew Lee a little, but bought a painting from him several years ago. He was such a nice guy and a wonderful artist.

BSFD2586 Meyer

July 22, 2014

So glad I was able to give you a big hug at Camp I Am me in June. My heart is heavy that you are no longer with us. You so humbly gave of yourself at camp. You taught our youth how to enhance their artistic talents. I wonder if you really knew what a difference you made. I am glad you were an important part of our lives. My prayers go to the entire Kowalski Family during this very difficult time. I look forward to hearing from you Sue.

Mary Werderitch

July 22, 2014

Lee will be missed. He was a great guy and a great painter. His painting hangs in our home in Florida.

Chuck Finlon

July 21, 2014

Rest in Peace Lee....I am honored to have met you and have your paintings in my home. You will be missed by many as you touched people in many ways. I still see you smiling and laughing.

Mary Dovgin

July 21, 2014

The family of Mary Petrouski Lanigan offer our sincere condolences on the passing of Lee. Lee and my Dad, the late Lt. Peter Petrouski worked together for many years on Truck 16 and Dad spoke highly of Lee. Thanks, Lee, for keeping my Dad safe, you were a genuine man. I have the painting you gave my Dad on his retirement displayed proudly along with pics of the men of Engine 63, Truck 16

July 21, 2014

God Bless You Uncle Lee You were loved by many people The world has lost some one good.....Barbara Hardin

Barbara Hardin

July 21, 2014

The Officers and Members of the 5-11 Club of Chicago would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to Lee's family. He was a great supporter of our club and a great friend to many. May he Rest In Peace.

Jim Mitidiero

July 21, 2014

Uncle Lee, my favorite uncle. Thanks for the memories while I was growing up. it's been a pleasure and an honor to know you Thanks for the paintings that hang in our home and the murals you put on our walls. it's a shame we couldn't take those with us. We'll miss you.

Bob & Linda Dillon

July 21, 2014

Cheers to a Woodlawn warrior and an artist who shared his talents with many. The pride of Hook and Ladder 16 is at peace.

Pete Brant

July 21, 2014

God bless you Lee for the many years you worked with the kids at IFSA Burn Camp. You were a staple at Camp and will be greatly missed. I was also proud to call you my friend. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Mike Figolah

July 20, 2014

RIP Lee. Thank you for your CFD service and many paintings.
You will be missed, but remembered forever.
Herling family !!

Sean Herling

July 20, 2014

You were a great friend to Gene Furmanek and his family. You will be missed Lee. God Speed.

July 20, 2014

Lee's painting still hangs on my wall, great memories. Jim Joyce truck 16 with Lee 1970.

July 19, 2014

TO THE FAMILY OF LEE KOWALSKI
I AM SHAKEN BY THE LOSS OF LEE
A GREAT FIREMAN
A GREAT ARTIST
A LOVING FAMILY MAN
AND RESPECTED BY HIS FELLOW MEMBERS OF LOCAL 2
HE IS A LOSS,,,SO SAD AT THIS TIME AS I RECALL HIS SMILE
AND FRIENDLY MANNER. GOD BLESS LEE AND ALL
MIKE COYNE, CFD RET, 1965-2005
OAK FOREST, ILLINOIS

MIKE COYNE

July 19, 2014

My dear friend, neighbor and father figure, I am going to miss you more than words can say.

Carla Hubbs

July 19, 2014

OUR FIREFIGHTER BROTHER LOVED BY ALL...GOD BLESS, UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN..

JOHN ALANIZ,RET-CHICAGO FD, ARTIST

ALANIZ

July 19, 2014

Rest in peace Lee.

Paul Weinstock

July 19, 2014

We have Lost a "Great Friend" from the Mabas 7 Fire Investigation Team of Kankakee County. A/C Pat Holohan

Patrick Holohan

July 19, 2014

We have Lost a "Great Friend" from the Mabas 7 Fire Investigation Team of Kankakee County. A/C Pat Holohan

Holohan

July 19, 2014

A fine neighbor and a great friend. You will be missed!

Michael Weisenritter

July 19, 2014

You are a good man Lee and will be missed. Kevin Prochot ( Chicago)

July 18, 2014

We love you Uncle Lee!

Victor & Vicki Dillon

July 18, 2014

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Blake Lamb Funeral Home - Oak Lawn

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