Rodger M. Gniadek Posted: 2021-01-12 08:29:22

Rodger M. Gniadek

Obituary

Rodger M. Gniadek, 94, at rest January 10, 2021. He was born in Chicago on February 5, 1926 to Peter and Mary (nee Gawronski) Gniadek. He married Esther M. Kranz on June 12, 1948, and they enjoyed 57 years of marriage until her passing on October 19, 2005. He served stateside in the Army during World War II and was proud to serve again when they called him during the Korean War. He is a member of Forest Park American Legion Post 0414.
Rodger could be the life of the party and celebrations at his and Esther’s house always went until the wee hours of the morning with plenty of food and spirits. He loved his gold Gibson guitar and spent many years entertaining family and friends. In later years he always had his video camera by his side, and he leaves behind many memories for us to enjoy. Dad saved everything and kept records, writing everything down. He loved reading and his computer. He enjoyed his grandchildren and often served as chauffer to school, sports, and band practice. Among his careers and talents were baking, welding, teaching music, and fixing TV’s back when they still had tubes and transistors. His knowledge of history and times past will be missed by all.
He is the loving father of Diane (the late Randy Zeek), and grandfather of Patrick (Becky), Ellen (Jose) and Philip (fiancé Tylar Jozefczyk). He is the brother-in-law of Leroy and Leota Kranz, Edward and Pam Kranz.
He was preceded in death by Violet (Frank) Matschinegg, and Muriel (Kranz) Tessler. He was also preceded in death by his parents and brothers Clifford (Gerri) and Dennis.
Visitation will be January 14, 2021 at 9 a.m. at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley, with mass to follow at 10 a.m. at St. Mary Church, 10307 Dundee Road, Huntley.
For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com

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Pamela Kranz 2021-01-13 14:25:02

Rodger you will be missed by us all. We love you and hope you are now happy with Esther. Diane and family my condolences go out to all of you. Prayers will be said.

Leota Kranz 2021-01-13 15:44:58

Rodger we always had so much fun and especially on our trips with you and Esther. Will always remember our trip to Tennessee and a traffic blockage and you got your camera out and you started being a roaming reporter and talking to people about what was going on as we laughed our sides off. Rodger you will be missed by all who loved you and now you and Esther can enjoy each other. Our prayers are with you. God bless you