Leo Michael Gorski

With thanks and praise from a grateful nation, we pay homage to Mr. Gorski for his role as a soldier in the U.S. Army during the Korean War era. He served from September 1951 thru September 1953, with over a year of that time spent on foreign soil abiding with our fellow allies. Following his training from the 6th Armored Division at Ft. Leonard Wood Army Base in Missouri, Leo would be assigned to the 336th Engineers Utility Detachment where his expertise as a Utility Repairman was highly sought after. Leo ultimately attained the rank of Corporal and was the recipient of many decorations and commendations thereto. Perhaps most notably is the fact that, following his being drafted into the Army, Leo was contacted with an offer of a military deferment,…but declined their proposal as the patriotism surging through his being overshadowed the option of returning home. He found great reward in serving his country, standing with his brothers-in-arms, and making a difference for the cause of freedom. For the sacrifices made and his willingness to stand in harm’s way on behalf of America, we extend our posthumous gratitude and pay tribute to Cpl. Leo Gorski’s honorable service to our country.

For his career choice, Leo ultimately chose the telecommunications giant, Michigan Bell to extend his skills and expertise as a field technician. Specifically working as a splicer, serving “Ma Bell” provided Leo with immense pride, and was a place where he enjoyed the camaraderie shared with his many fellow workmates. Following 42 years of loyal and dedicated service to the company, Leo finally accepted his well-deserved retirement and went on to enjoy his new chapter in life.

When he was looking to engage one of his favorite pastimes, one of the most oft chosen destinations was definitely the casinos. There was just something special and invigorating about sharing the environment and energy amongst his fellow gamblers, and giving Ol’ Lady Luck a run for her money with each draw of the handle from those infamous One-Armed Bandits. As for a little entertainment at home, Leo was huge into playing card games, especially when it came to Euchre and Pinochle. But for as much as those two games reigned supreme, the game choice didn’t bear as much importance as the simple joys and pleasures of gathering around the card table while engaging in a bit of friendly competition and conversation,…making memories to hold close and relive often. Another indoor activity Leo enjoyed was the game of Ping-Pong. Talking about loads of fun, it also offered a bit of exercise in the process,…just like in his love of bowling. Though both sports are a bit more low-key in the area of exertion, it was more about the sharing of “friendship moments” that made each sport something he looked forward to with extreme delight. As for a bit of outdoor fun, Leo’s finesse was often displayed when the Corn Hole game made an appearance. When it came to tossing those little sacks in the hole, Leo always seemed to have a laser-bead on that board. Yet of all the pastimes that filled his fun calendar, he’ll be fondly remembered as a lover of dance. Growing up in an era when dance halls were not only prevalent, but packed,…it was definitely the thing to do for social entertainment, and Leo certainly knew his way around the dance floor. With the smoothness and sway of a professional, there was little that could hold a candle to holding someone special in his arms as they tripped the light fantastic together.

Known for his esteemed generosity, Leo was truly the kind of guy who would give you the shirt off his back. If he knew that someone was in need, Leo would go the extra mile to help,…he was just that reliable. And his generosity was equally matched by his sincere kindness. Not only to his fellow man, Leo also had quite a soft spot in his heart when it came to the animal world. A lover of everything animal related, God must have known that Leo was going to need a touch of that Dr. Doolittle thing. Yet not merely for his four-legged friends, Leo was quite the people-person as well. Always upbeat and engaging, he could often be found regaling a willing audience in a little joke telling,…and sometimes they were funny. (LOL) But in the big picture of Leo’s life, he truly had a heart of gold and shared that love en masse. And it was never more evident than with his dear and treasured family. They were his greatest love, his cherished inspirations, and the ones for which he leaves his unique and genuine legacy of love. That, along with the countless memories created in their company, is the light he leaves behind to illuminate the hearts of all who reflect upon him and embrace the joy he imparted. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.         

Leo was the beloved husband of the late Rita Ann. Dearest father of Michael, Matthew, and Mark (Candi) Gorski. Loving grandfather of Monica and Jake, and brother of Adele Pasternak. Treasured uncle of Ron, John, and Jim Glodich, as well as the Kralik’s; Michael, Karen, Theresa, Barbara, John, Jerry, Pete, and the late Andrew.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations are welcomed to the Michigan Humane Society, 30300 Telegraph Road, suite 220, Bingham Farms, Michigan 48025…or at www.michiganhumanesociety.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home in Warren, Michigan.

Please share memories of Leo at his guest book below.