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Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home - Westchester

10501 W. Cermak

Westchester, Illinois

Mary Klonowski Obituary

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. 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.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Tribune on Mar. 26, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
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Kelly Mather Humble

May 21, 2023

I'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.

Margie Siegel

April 16, 2023

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.

Jennifer Hill

March 31, 2023

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!

Lee Fuhrman

March 31, 2023

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.

The Timmel Family

March 30, 2023

Condolences from the Timmel family.

Teresa Fuhrman

March 29, 2023

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.

Mark Rudolph

March 28, 2023

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.

Rosa & Michael Stoute

March 26, 2023

Sincerest condolences to Joanne and the rest of the family.
Rosa & Michael Stoute

Lilane Koehn Mace

March 26, 2023

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

Kim Savage

March 25, 2023

Mary's commitment to community has been inspirational to women throughout Illinois. Her leadership on important issues will be missed. I offer my condolences to the Klonowski family for their loss.

Susan Clement

March 24, 2023

Mary was one of those "strong women" who contributed so much to every group she was a part of. I greatly admired her involvement and contributions to the church. She won't be forgotten to anyone who knew her.

KENT SAVAGE

March 23, 2023

Wishing you peace and healing in the difficult time. With our deepest sympathies,
Kent, Ben and Adam Savage

From the Staff of Conboy's Westchester Funeral Home

March 26, 2023

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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Memorial Events
for Mary Klonowski

Mar

31

Visitation

3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home - Westchester

10501 W. Cermak, Westchester, IL 60154

Apr

1

Memorial service

11:00 a.m.

Grace Lutheran Church

200 North Catherine Ave. , LaGrange, IL

Funeral services provided by:

Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home - Westchester

10501 W. Cermak, Westchester, IL 60154

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