Leonard F. Marek

Leonard F. Marek, age 77 of Lansing, IL passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, March 11, 2010. Born October 19, 1932 in Chicago, IL, he was preceded in death by his parents: Francis and Myrtle Marek; and his brother, Robert.

Leonard is survived by his loving companion of 30 years, Eileen Young of Lansing and her daughters: Shelley (Matt) Yankauskas and Shawna (Mark) Smith; and his little dog, Katie. He is also survived by his four children: Jeff (Renee) Marek, Timothy (Vicky) Marek, Jenny (Jim) Skorney and Tami (Steve) Your; 11 grandchildren: Sabrina, Jesse, Samantha, Chris, Michael, Nick, Kevin, Rachel, Erin, Joseph and Jessica; four great grandchildren; sisters: Gladys Zahs and Charlotte (Walter) Bock; and several nieces and nephews. Len will be reunited in heaven with his granddaughter Becky, with whom he had a special bond and whose wisdom, courage and unconditional love touched him deeply.

Leonard worked in various manufacturing positions in the Chicago area. After he retired he enjoyed wood working and creating reproduction antique furniture that will be cherished by his family for many years to come. He was also an avid reader of World War II history books. Len will be remembered by many as the man who brought smiles to many faces, when he accompanied his little white dog, Toto (dressed as Dorothy), to the Wizard of OZ festival in chesterton for so many years. Leonard was a generous, patient, kind and loving man who will be greatly missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to have shared his life.

The family invites relatives and friends to visit Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 8178 Cline Ave. (1/2 mile south of U.S. 30), Schererville, IN on Sunday, March 14, 2010 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. A service to celebrate Len's life will take place at the funeral home on Monday, March 15, 2010 at 11:00 a.m.