Mark A. Leja

Mark A. Leja, Age 35, passed away on September 4, 2025.
Mark A. Leja, 35, survived by the love of his life Keeley Shaw. A loyal and loving son of Stanley and Alexsandra Leja, cherished brother to Peter and Alexander (Aleksandra Slaba), loyal friend to Greg Bonello, treasured grandson of Maria Swiderski and deceased grandparents Joseph Swiderski, Stanislaw Leja and Anna Leja. Mark was loved by many aunts, uncles and cousins.
Mark built an extraordinary career in the world of film, eventually becoming a member of the Directors Guild of America. In his work he was known for his dedication, resourcefulness, and vision. Countless productions include The Chi, Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action, Shameless, and Chicago MED, among many others. Beyond television, Mark lent his talent to numerous commercials and pilots, always elevating each project with his sharp eye for detail and unmatched work ethic.
A true storyteller at heart, Mark produced several award-winning live-action and animated films, including Saudade, Hypothetical, and The Cask of Amontillado.
Off set, Mark's passions reflected his joy for living and the world around him. He wanted to taste and experience everything life had to offer and given enough time, he would have done it all. In the short 35 years he had, He painted miniatures, wrote music, taught himself to play guitar, wrote several animated series, started a band, recorded an album, and much much more. He found joy in road trips, film photography, and testing new recipes. A lifelong hobbyist, Mark approached every endeavor with an enthusiasm, unyielding dedication, and passion that inspired everyone who knew him.
More than his career and hobbies, Mark will be remembered for his love, generosity, humor, passion for film and music, and his unending catalog of facts. His life left an imprint on all the people who had the privilege of knowing him, inspiring them to live bolder and with more intention.
Mark's life, though cut far too short, was defined by boundless creativity, tireless dedication, and a love for those around him. His vibrant spirit and zest for life will continue to live on in the stories he told, the art he made, and the memories he created.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital are much appreciated.
Visitation, Sunday, September 7, 2025, 3:00PM to 7:00PM at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral, Monday, September 8, 2025, 9:00AM Prayers and Procession to begin from the funeral home to Saint Patricia Church, 9040 S. 86th Avenue, Hickory Hills, Illinois for 10:00AM Mass.
Interment, Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Illinois. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Mark, please visit our Tree Store.