Edward Anthony Kowalczyk

Born in Chicago to Edward and Sophie Kowalczyk, he grew up as “Edziu” in the tight-knit Polish community of Ukrainian Village. Surrounded by extended family and guided by his grandfather, Dziadzi, the beloved patriarch and his earliest role model, Ed developed a lifelong devotion to family, spirited conversation, and the conviction that each person is called to contribute something meaningful to the world. Those early lessons shaped not only the man he became but also the countless lives he touched.

He served in the United States Army and, after his discharge, enrolled at DePaul University in Chicago, earning a bachelor’s degree in business. While there, he famously joined an Italian fraternity, amused to be its only non-Italian member. He often brought his fraternity brothers home to Ukrainian Village, where they crowded around his mother’s table for her legendary Polish “mock chicken legs,” laughing late into the evening. Immersed in the city’s vibrant social life, he organized dances at Chicago’s bustling halls. It was on one of those dance floors that he met Delores, the love of his life.

After marrying Delores Kowalczyk, née Berger, on September 24, 1960, Ed began the great work of his life: building a home and family with her. Together they settled in Arlington Heights, raising their three children, Eddie, Susan, and John, and living in the same house for more than 60 years. That house became more than an address. It was a place of welcome and belonging. Back porch conversations stretched long after sunset. Neighbors became extended family. His bar was always open, and no one lingered there without feeling seen and included. In time, Ed was affectionately regarded as the patriarch of his cul-de-sac, a role he embraced with warmth and good humor.

He built a long career as a Yellow Pages salesperson for R.H. Donnelley, though he often said his true vocation was his volunteer work with Reading and Recording for the Blind, where he gave what he valued most – his voice. For Ed, using one’s voice was an act of care and responsibility. Whether reading aloud for others, writing letters to United States presidents, or engaging in animated debate around the kitchen table, he believed that participation, dialogue, and thoughtful disagreement were essential to a life fully lived.

Creativity was another language he spoke fluently. He sculpted in wood, painted landscapes, drew the human figure, and explored abstract art, always curious, always learning. As a founding member and lector at St. Edna’s Church, he helped shape parish life by organizing picnics, holiday dances, and gatherings that brought people together in friendship. Even routine trips to Trader Joe’s became small celebrations of connection, where he was greeted not just as a customer but as a friend.

He took special pride in his grandchildren, Zak, Zosia, and Zeke, encouraging them to discover their gifts and share them boldly with the world. In them, he saw the continuation of what mattered most to him: curiosity, expression, courage, and community. Nothing delighted him more than watching them grow into themselves.

Ed will be deeply missed by his family, friends, neighbors, and all who were fortunate enough to sit at his table or be drawn into one of his stories. His voice, generous and unmistakable, now lives on in the memories of those who loved him. His stories belong to them and will continue, as he so often began his own: “I’ll never forget when…”

He is survived by his children, Edward J. Kowalczyk and Arturo Febry, John Kowalczyk, Susan and John Bolde; and by his grandchildren, Zak, Zosia, and Zeke Bolde. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Delores; his parents, Edward and Sophie Kowalczyk; his sister, Adrienne Baranowski; and many cherished relatives and lifelong friends.

Visitation will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by a Memorial Mass at 10:00 a.m. at St. Edna’s Church, 2525 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Blind Service Chicago, 17 N. State Street, Suite 1050, Chicago, Illinois 60602.