John (Jack) Hubert Kielczynski, 78

LA GRANGE, IL – John (Jack) Hubert Kielczynski (78) passed away peacefully on June 8th, 2023, with his family lovingly by his side in LaGrange, Illinois. He was born December 2nd, 1944, to Helen Evelyn and Hubert Kielczynski of Chicago.

Jack was forever proud of his three boys and their families, John & Amy, Joseph & KC, and James & Vanessa. His memory lives on with his seven grandchildren, Alexis & Giavanna, Brooke & John, Elena, Matthew, and Michael.

Jack is survived by his beautiful wife, Retired Sarge Marge Kielczynski of the LaGrange Police Department, who loved him dearly and valiantly supported him in sickness and in health.

Jack lived a life of public service. As a young man, he served on active duty on the Saratoga Air Craft Carrier for the Navy. Above all, Jack was incredibly passionate about being a police officer and had forty-two years of distinguished service with the following departments: Skokie, Elk Grove, North Western Railroad Police, and Metra Police. As an active lifetime member of the International Police Association, Jack helped other police to travel the world building friendships and international cooperation. Through the years, Jack and Marge also opened their hearts and home to host many foreign youth groups and foreign police officers visiting Chicago. Whenever tragedy struck, Jack’s big heart always wanted to help those in need. He garnered support from friends and the community and drove a truck full of donations to relief centers after hurricanes Sandy, Katrina, and Harvey.

Jack loved watching sports and was an avid bird watcher, bowler, and card player. Anyone who knew Jack knew he liked to gamble: Blackjack, Caribbean Stud, the Lottery, football squares, and scratch tickets; nothing was off limits. On his many cruises, his spot would be in the casino at the Blackjack table, making friends with the players and dealers. He also had a great enthusiasm for politics, but most notable was his unquenchable thirst for travel with Marge. Their travels took them extensively through Europe several times and on many Caribean cruises as well as trips to South Africa, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. In his retirement, he found joy in being an Uber Driver and chatting with his many customers. He was especially proud of his five-star driver rating.

Jack will be missed by many here on Earth, but in classic Jack form, we are sure he is making new friends on his continued journey.

Military Services and a Celebration of Life is planned for Monday, June 26th, at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Rd., Elwood, IL, at Two-thirty in the Afternoon.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Jack’s favorite charity, Tunnel to Towers Foundation.