Alan Kloskowski

Date of Birth

Sep 29,1934

Date of Death

Aug 31,2019

Alan “Smokey” Kloskowski, age 84 of Elburn, previously of Elmhurst and Christmas, MI passed away quietly into the arms of his Savior, at home, surrounded by the love and prayers of his family in the early morning hours of Saturday, August 31, 2019.

He was born September 29, 1934 in Chicago to proud parents Adam and Helen Kloskowski.
Smokey grew up in Chicago and attended Lane Tech High School. He graduated with the class of 1952. Before he received his diploma Smokey received a National Foundry Award for a fire place grate that is still used today.

Following high school he began a five year apprenticeship learning how to make patterns. After his apprenticeship he worked at Sarcol Incorporated in Chicago. Smokey worked his way up in the company until he became owner in 1985.

Smokey met the love of his life, Carol, in 1955. They married the following year. They began their new life together in Elmwood Park before eventually settling in Elmhurst to raise seven children. With their family and the close friendships of their neighbors they created a lifetime of memories. In 1995 Smokey and Carol moved into the log home Smokey designed on the shores of Lake Superior.

As a member of the Knights of Columbus, Pack Master of the Cub Scouts, President of his neighborhood association, and the local school board, Smokey gave of his time and talents. He was a man who believed in giving back to his community.

Smokey was a talented nature photographer and enjoyed niche wood working projects such as kitty cat clocks and puzzle boxes. He loved to cook for family and friends and was famous for his huge family breakfasts and New Year’s Day brunch. He also enjoyed a good Bloody Mary.

Smokey looked forward to Happy Hour with his family and friends. Carlo Rossi Paisano was his Happy Hour wine of choice. Many glasses were enjoyed on the deck, chatting with friends and looking over the lake.

Smokey is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Carol; his seven children: Frank Kloskowski, Vickiann Kalnins, Ginger (Karl) Brinkmann, David (Corinne) Kloskowski, Robert (Sandy) Kloskowski, Catherine Provenzale, and William (Tracey) Kloskowski; his 15 grandchildren; one great-grand child; his sister, Nancy Kloskowski; and many loving friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Adam and Helen Kloskowski, and his brother, Robert Klos.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, September 6, 2019, from 4-8 pm at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce Street, Elburn, IL 60119. A memorial Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday 7, 2019, at St Gall Catholic Church, 43W885 Hughes Road, Elburn, IL 60119. Private family interment will follow Mass at a later date.

In lieu of flower, a memorial has been established in Smokey’s name to benefit Ovarian Cancer reseach. Checks may be made to the “Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance” and mailed to 14 Pennsylvania Plaza, Suite 2110, New York, NY 10122 or give online: donations@ocrahope.org. Tributes may also be forwarded to the Conley Funeral Home Facebook page, or at www.conleycare.com where you can read his full life story.

A memorial visitation will be Friday, September 6, 2019 from 4-8 p.m. at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL 60119. A memorial mass will begin at 11 a.m., Saturday, September 7, at St. Gall Catholic Church, 43W885 Hughes Road, Elburn, IL 60119. Private family interment will follow mass at a later.

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