Larry Smolinski Obituary

Smolinski, Larry 1949-2016. We are extremely saddened to an nounce the passing of Mr. Larry Smolinski. Larry joined our automotive family in 1968 at the age of 18. He worked as a part time porter for Celozzi Ettleson Chevrolet while attending Western Illinois University, where he graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science. After graduation Larry returned to Celozzi Ettleson Chevrolet and signed on as a service advisor, then moved into vehicle sales and finally to General Manager. In 1986 Larry became an equity owner/partner and Lawrence Cadillac was established in Brookfield, Illinois. In 1992 the dealership was moved to its current facility in Hodgkins and was renamed Ettleson Cadillac. Together, Larry and Mike Ettleson have run the operation in Hodgkins which features Cadillac, Buick, GMC and in 2004 purchased the Hyundai franchise, which is still located in Countryside today. The most important thing in Larry's life was family. Both his son Larry and daughter Kristin were an integral part of his life and he took great pride and satisfaction in watching them both graduate college and start their lives professionally and personally. Larry also had a passion for boating, which he also shared with his children. Each year he would travel to new ports and destinations on Lake Michigan. He was also an active member in the Catholic Church and volunteered time with boards and charities related to the church, as well as The Seminary in Mundelein. Larry was our leader and mentor, but above all he set a daily example of how to live life to the fullest. Health issues were never an excuse but rather a shining example each day to all of us, to live life to the fullest and bring passion and commitment to all that you do. Together with his children and family, we will always cherish the example Larry set each and every day and his kindness and commitment to our customers will live on here at the Ettleson Automotive Group forever. Memorial Mass 11:00 A.M. Friday, December 2, 2016 at St. Daniel the Prophet Church, 101 W. Loop Rd., Wheaton, IL 60189. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Arrangements by Ahlgrim Funeral Home. Info 630--834-3515 or www.ahlgrim.com. Memorials: In lieu of flowers, Memorials will be appreciated for St. Daniel the Prophet Church, 101 W. Loop Rd., Wheaton, IL 60189