Will County Gazette

Orland Park, IL - Thomas Joseph Kawka, 86, of Orland Park, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on July 27, 2025. Born on September 29, 1938, in Chicago, IL, Thomas was the youngest of five children born to Constantine and Harriet Kawka.

Thomas graduated from Fenwick High School and later earned his bachelor's degree from Loyola University and a master's degree in English from DePaul University. He dedicated his career to teaching English in the Chicago Public High Schools, where his passion for language and literature endeared him to many students.

On June 18, 1960, Thomas married Bernadette at St. Francis of Rome Church in Cicero. Together, they raised six children and shared 65 years of love and companionship. Thomas was known for his deep Catholic faith, humble nature, and endless love for his family.

A talented coach, Thomas devoted himself to coaching his sons' baseball teams and found joy in family gatherings. He was an avid reader, a dedicated writer, and a lifelong learner with a disciplined approach to life. Thomas was also a dedicated fan of Chicago sports teams, especially the Cubs.

Thomas is survived by his loving wife Bernadette and their children: Mike (Gena Marie) Kawka, Maria Danielson, Monica (Eric) Kantner, Melissa Kawka, and Thomas P. Kawka. He was the cherished grandfather of many and leaves behind great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, brother-in-law, and other family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Mokena, IL, followed by a Funeral Mass. Thomas will be laid to rest at Good Shepard Cemetery in Orland Park on Friday, August 1, 2025.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Thomas to Equine Dreams, an organization that provides equine assisted services to individuals with special needs.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Thomas Kawka, please visit our flower store.

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