Thomas Joseph Kawka

Thomas Joseph Kawka, 86, of Orland Park, IL, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on July 27, 2025.

Born on September 29, 1938, in Chicago, IL, Thomas was the youngest of five children born to Constantine and Harriet (Sokolowski) Kawka. He graduated from Fenwick High School and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Loyola University, followed by a master's degree in English from DePaul University. Thomas taught English in the Chicago Public High Schools for his entire career. His love of language, literature, and the written word would go on to define much of his life.

On June 18, 1960, Thomas married the love of his life, Bernadette, at St. Francis of Rome Church in Cicero. Together they raised six children and spent 40 years in Hickory Hills before moving on to Orland Park. Thomas was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who took great joy in family gatherings.

He was known for his deep Catholic faith, which guided everything he did, and he spent his life studying and learning as much as he could. Always wearing a warm smile, he carried himself with incredible humility and grace. He had a steady presence and a constant source of love. His generosity knew no bounds, matched only by his endless curiosity and thoughtful nature. A gifted writer, he found joy in reading and reflecting. He lived his life with unwavering discipline.

Thomas found great pride and joy at sporting events, school programs as well as other interests of his children and grandchildren. His dedication and love for the game of baseball made him an impactful coach for his three sons' teams. He loved watching all the Chicago sports teams, especially the Cubs.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Bernadette, and their children: Mike (Gena Marie) Kawka, Maria Danielson, Monica (Eric) Kantner, Melissa Kawka, and Thomas P. Kawka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Constantine and Harriet Kawka; his son, Mark Kawka; his son-in-law, Eric Danielson; his granddaughter, Anna Danielson; and his siblings: Jerome (Catherine) Kawka, Barbara (Al) Locke, Joan (Mel) Hodges, and Bernadette Palicka.

He was the cherished grandfather of Thomas, Anna, Jeremy, Matthew, Karina, Sarah, Hannah, Kassandra, Madelyn, Zachary, Shannon, Brittany and Ilea. Father-in-law of Laura.

He also leaves behind great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews who adored him, his sister-in-law, Bonita (Martin) Mesewicz, as well as other family members and friends that will also treasure Thomas's memory.

Family and friends to gather on Thursday, July 31, 2025 for a 4:00 p.m. visitation until the time of the Funeral Mass, 5:00 p.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 19515 115th Avenue, Mokena, IL.

Thomas will be laid to rest at Good Shepard Cemetery, Orland Park, IL on Friday, August 1, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Thomas's late granddaughter, Anna Danielson, to Equine Dreams (www.equinedreams.org), an organization that provides equine assisted services, at no charge, to children and adults with special needs. Address: 9775 Fox River Drive, Newark, IL 60541.