Lila K Kudzin

Lila was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. A strong and independent woman who built a meaningful life through resilience, determination, and love for her family. As a young, widowed mother she courageously started anew in the United States, embracing new opportunities while remaining deeply connected to her roots. Lila and Leon, both single widowed parents of young children met, married and began life as a blended family in 1970. Lila dedicated herself to raising her daughters and son, instilling in them the same independence, strength, and self-reliance that defined her own life.

Lila found great joy in gardening, where her patience and care brought beauty and life to everything she touched. She spent many hours volunteering at the Chicago Botanic Gardens sharing her love of plants and flowers with others. Lila also loved to travel and took pride in seeing the world, especially sharing those experiences with her husband Leon. Together they visited France and Poland, as well as Hawaii, Canada, Alaska, Spain, England, Belgium, the Netherlands, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Whether tending her garden, planning a trip, or supporting her family, Lila approached life with quiet determination and grace.

She was a loving and proud grandmother who treasured time spent with her grandchildren and remained a steady, guiding presence in their lives. Her strength, wisdom, and example will continue to live on through them.

Lila will be dearly missed and is survived by her cherished children Peter Kudzin, Lola (nee Kudzin) Rivera, and Agnes (nee Kragiel) Scheltens; her beloved grandchildren Nicolaas, Natalia, Matthew, Sabrina, Andrew, and Grace and Great Granddaughter Lilium; and many dear extended family members. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Leon F. Kudzin.

A visitation will be held on January 26, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Malec & Sons Funeral Home, located at 6000 North Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL, 60646, US.

A memorial service will take place on January 26, 2026, at 6:00 pm at the same location.