Chicago, Illinois
Sojka, Walter L. A U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean War was called home to God on August 17, 2014 at the age of 84. Beloved son of the late Peter J. and the late Elizabeth J. (nee Wrzesinski); loving brother of the late Peter J. Jr. (late Lottie) and the late S.M. Ancilla CSFN; proud uncle of Adrienne Jaworski (Jack Graham), Susan (Jesus) Villa; great-uncle of Todd (Nichole), Adrienne Accardi (Corey Purcell), Lisa (Vince) Jesaitis and Jeff (Kelly) Jaworski, Reid Jesaitis, Alex and Nathaniel Accardi. Owner of the Walter L. Sojka Funeral Home for over 60 years. Neighborhood residents and businesses dubbed him 'the Mayor of Chicago Ave." Many cousins and friend to all. His professional leadership, civic, and religious involvement were the cornerstones of his life. Founder of the Polish Museum of America Summer Ball, the Friends of Nazareth of Des Plaines, and the Friends of Sister Ancilla for the Phillapian Mission. Officer and/or member of numerous organizations including: National and Illinois Funeral Directors Associations, the Polish Roman Catholic Union of America, the Polish Museum of America, the Stanley Barbasz VFW post #72, Bishop Murphy's Catholic Campaign for Human Development, the Catholic League, St. Vincent DePaul, the Chicago Junior Chamber of Commerce, the Chicago InterCollegiate Council, the Northwest Community Organization, where he established the first senior citizen club in the community in 1962 at Pulaski Park, and many more. Lay Chairman & Greeter for Pope John Paul II's first visit to Chicago in 1979. His leadership at St. Boniface and Holy Innocents Catholic churches will always be remembered. Visitation Thursday August 21, 2014 at the Walter L. Sojka Funeral Home, 1427 W. Chicago Ave., Chicago from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Friday 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Holy Innocents Church 743 N. Armour, Chicago followed by the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Interment Maryhill. Memorials to Nazarethville, 300 N. River Rd., Des Plaines, IL 60016, appreciated. 312-666-2673
I will always remember for my Dads wake dinner upstairs at his home. His tradition of a polish family dinner. Also hot coffee handed out at the church after the funeral. Absolutely wonderful man.
ANDREW OBOZA
August 15, 2020 | Niles, IL
Our deepest condolences to Edwin and all of Walters friends and family. Walter was a wonderful man, he will truly be missed.
The Jacobson Family
Tina (niece of Stanly Palumbo)
Tina Jacobson
September 24, 2014 | AlgonquiN, IL
Remembered By
Edward Pyrek
August 30, 2014 | Hoffman Estates, IL
I am signing representing the dozens of Felician Sisters whose relatives and friends were buried from Walter's little chapel. Memories of his kindness and generousity go back decades for many sisters who lived and tauht at Holy Innocents. I'm sure he is rejoicing now with all his neighbors in God's heavenly kingdom!
Sr. Carole Mary Capoun, CSSF
August 29, 2014
For over 51 years, Wally helped our family though the most difficult times as he comforted us as we buried our loved ones. Wally was alway there to support us and now its our turn to comfort his family and offer them our prayers during this most difficult time...Rest in peace dear Walter, for you are now in the hands of the angels...Love the Wilczewski and Schlieben Families
August 29, 2014
Many Fond Memories of Wally and his wonderful sense of humor. Just saw him when planning our Mom's funeral. May You Rest In Peace. We Love You.
Frank Hudoba Family
August 25, 2014 | Berkeley, IL, IL
May God bless Walter's soul and keep it in His care. Thanks for always taking care of my deceased family members in the Kriss family and for being friends with my father and his brothers. You were a sentinel in the Old Polish neighborhood. R/ SMK
Dr. Steve Kriss
August 22, 2014
In memory of Walter L Sojka. Met you many years ago, your humor and laugh were unmistakeable. Thank you for your friendship and advice. Part of the CIC and Museum Summer Ball family.
RIP Walter. God Bless.
Mark Dobrzycki
August 22, 2014 | Harwood Heights, IL
Sue and Adrienne: I spoke with your uncle a few years at the St. Helen's carnival-his generosity truly made him the "Mayor of Chicago Avenue".
Madelyn "Maggie" Bielawa (Poprawski)
August 22, 2014