Julia Krol

Julia Krol, age 98, of Chicago, passed away on June 29, 2025. Born on June 28, 1927, in Raba Wyżna, Poland, she was married & widowed by Wiktor Krol, and immigrated to Chicago in 1984. In Poland, Julia managed a grocery store for many years, and after moving to the U.S., she cared for the elderly in a Chicago nursing home.

Affectionately known as Babcia, she found joy in reading, crossword puzzles, gardening, playing cards, movies, and sharing her breakfast with the family dogs, Dexter and Abby. She loved Polish music and often sang while tending to her home and loved ones. Her devotion to her family was constant—always making sure no one left hungry, mending clothes, and visiting loved ones in Poland when she could (always returning with the best Polish cheese).

Babcia’s smile lit up the room, and her laughter brought comfort to all who knew her. Though she endured many hardships, she lived with deep gratitude, unwavering strength, and a heart full of love. Her resilience, wisdom, humor, and kindness were a daily inspiration.

Babcia is survived by her children Charlotte Sadowski, Halina Krol and Zbyszek Krol, granddaughters, Jolanta Smith, Jaclyn Groom, Lidia Gasienica Gron, Ania Pogorzelski, Ewa Prylinska, Andrzej, Krystyna and Henryk Krol; and great-grandchildren, Kevin Smith, Jessica Smith, Marek, Dominik, Patryk, Patrycja, Martyna, and Piotr and many great-great children.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 7, from 5–8 p.m. at Malec & Sons Funeral Home (600 N Milwaukee Ave), with a prayer service at 7 p.m.

Funeral services will take place Tuesday, July 8: Family and friends may gather at Malec & Sons at 9 a.m. for a 9:15 a.m. prayer before proceeding to St. Constance Church (5843 W Strong St) for the sermon. The procession will pass Julia’s home before continuing to her final resting place at Acacia Park Cemetery (7800 W Irving Park Rd).