Photo courtesy of Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home - Westchester
Westchester, Illinois
Dec 19, 1932 – Mar 22, 2023
Mary Klonowski, nee Vellos, longtime resident of LaGrange, age 90, passed away March 22, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Robert S. Klonowski; loving mother of Robert (Deborah Burnet), Paul, Mary Beth (Paul Kahan), Joanne (Roger Brathwaite), Catherine (James) Wenskus, John (Beth) and Peter Klonowski; proud grandmother of Joseph, Daniel, Thomas, Marie, Zewek, Xavier, Zofia, Zane, Hannah, Jack and Ava; great-grandmother of Charlie, Leslie and Robert; dear sister of Beatrice (late Don) Lamb, John (Carla) Vellos and Carolyn (late ROC) O’Connell and a much loved sister-in-law, cousin, aunt and friend of many. Mary taught math at Lyons Township High School for 25 years and continued to substitute teach and tutor for 15 more years. She was an active member of the LaGrange Area League of Women Voters, as well as the National Education Assoc. and a beloved member of Grace Lutheran Church. In 2019, Mary was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for Outstanding Support of Diversity and Inclusion from the Village of LaGrange. Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester on Friday March 31st, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. All will meet Saturday April 1st, for an 11 a.m. memorial service at Grace Lutheran Church, 200 North Catherine Ave. LaGrange, IL 60525, The service will be available for live-stream viewing at https://www.gracelutheran-lg.org/live. In lieu of flowers, please register to vote!, or memorials to The LaGrange Area League of Women Voters, or Grace Lutheran Church are deeply appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Peter B. Kennedy & Co., Funeral Directors. Info: 708-562-5900.
Read MoreI'm so sorry to learn of the passing of your mother! Your mother was such a sweet, fun person! I remember her so well from my days at CCS in Lombard, IL. Memories of camping at Greenwing with her and your family always bring back a smile to my face! So lucky to have known your mom! Sending much love to your family.
Kelly Mather Humble
May 21, 2023 | Friend
What a wonderful celebration of her life, that memorial service! She felt so present in all of it, thank you for sharing her powerful spirit in this way.
I know this transition comes with much pain and sadness. Still, she clearly will continue to reside in your hearts, the energy and passion you bring to your work and family and communities, and the love you carry in the world. Sending wishes for comfort and peace to you all.
Margie Siegel
April 16, 2023 | Minneapolis, MN | Friend
She was my algebra teacher when I was 14, and a great lady. She believed in me and the importance of my education when no one else did, including myself. Her belief in me helped show me that I had value. She made me write a computer program in summer after school ended, and she called my house to make sure I showed up! Today I am nearly 60 and I have a rewarding career in technology. I don’t think I would be in technology today if it weren’t for Mary Klonowski. Thank you Mrs. Klonowski!
Jennifer Hill
March 31, 2023 | Student
My deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Mary Klonowski. She touched the hearts of so many with her bright and caring personality, and she always had a sparkle in her eye. I always enjoyed talking with her at parties at the Wenskus house, and once had the pleasure of having her as a substitute math teacher in high school; she was sharp and accepted no sass from the rowdy class! She will be missed dearly.
Lee Fuhrman
March 31, 2023 | Western Springs, IL | Friend
Condolences from the Timmel family.
The Timmel Family
March 30, 2023 | Hillsborough, NC | Friend
I feel lucky to have known Mary Klonowski. She always moved with purpose, she had a knack for bringing out the best in others, and she made you feel like your presence mattered to her. She had a twinkle in her eye, an easy smile, a curious mind, and a loving heart. I feel blessed to have been included in her circle of friends and she will be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to her loving family.
Teresa Fuhrman
March 29, 2023 | Western Springs, IL | Friend
I´m so sorry for your loss, Mary was an incredibly kind person who leaves a great legacy. Going forward I hope the good memories will lessen her loss.
Mark Rudolph
March 28, 2023
Sincerest condolences to Joanne and the rest of the family.
Rosa & Michael Stoute
Rosa & Michael Stoute
March 26, 2023 | Holetown | Friend
My sincere condolences to the family of Mary Klonowski. I was the Math/Science Division Chair at Lyons Township High School in Mary’s last years before retirement. I will always remember her welcoming smile and laugh as well as her high expectations and caring for students. We always marveled at her short trip to work each day. May she Rest In Peace after a long life of giving to others. Lilane Koehn Mace
Lilane Koehn Mace
March 26, 2023 | Glendale, WI | Coworker