James G. Kulekowskis

James G. Kulekowskis 1945 – 2026

James (Jim) G. Kulekowskis, age 80, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, February 22, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly, following a courageous battle with renal cancer.

Born in Chicago and a longtime resident of Crest Hill, James dedicated his life to service. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army Reserve and a proud member of the Chicago Police Department, where he served with distinction for thirty-five years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant.

Outside of his professional life, James was a man of deep Catholic faith and family. He cherished the many travels he shared with his late wife, Zita, and found his greatest joy in his role as a father and grandfather. He was an extremely proud supporter of his children and five grandchildren, celebrating their every milestone.

He is survived by his devoted children, Jim (Cynthia) Kulekowskis and AnnMarie (Michael) Wuertz; and his beloved grandchildren, Madysen, Samantha, James, John, and Frank. He is also survived by his brother, Louis (Vivian) Kulekowskis; his sister, Maryanne (Bill) Doherty; and sisters-in-law Marianne Kulekowskis, Sandi Kulekowskis, Violet Pingel, and Betty Liekus, as well as numerous godchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

James was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Zita Kulekowskis; three brothers, Ray (Val) Kay, William Kulekowskis, and Thomas Kulekowskis; and his parents, Louis and Lillian Kulekowskis.

A Memorial Service Mass will be held Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. Carlo Acutis Parish, 1711 Burry Circle Dr., Crest Hill, IL 60403. The family will receive friends at the church on Saturday morning from 10:30 a.m. until the time of Mass with a reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests memorials and donations be made in James’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital www.stjude.org.