Medard K. Domkowski

Med Domkowski was born in Chicago on January 22, 1942, to Walter and Marie Domkowski. He was raised alongside his older brother, Wally. Med often spoke fondly of his childhood, recalling that he grew up in an era when children played outside until the streetlights came on and enjoyed a close-knit neighborhood where he sometimes got into mischief. He loved to joke around and had a great sense of humor. He also liked cars. At the age of 22, Med lost his father, and a year later lost his mother, those losses at such a young age affected him deeply. Med was a hardworking man who believed in providing for his family. He worked as a printer for his entire working life until he retired. In addition to his full-time work, worked with family at a fire repair business and he operated a small neighborhood print shop. Friends, local organizations, and small businesses relied on him for printing services, and he took pride in delivering quality work. His dedication and work ethic allowed him to support his family while serving those around him. On February 17, 1962, Med married the love of his life, Patricia Kennedy. Together they built a loving family and shared more than forty-six years of marriage until the love of his life passed away. They welcomed their son Kenneth in 1963 and their daughters Kathleen in 1966 and Karyn in 1969. Med was known as a talented woodworker and craftsman. He transformed his basement into a workshop where he created many beautiful projects, including a kitchen table, lamps, candle sticks, sconces, and other handcrafted items. Family members and friends still treasure many of the pieces he built with his own hands. Med was also devoted to his parish community at St. Francis Borgia Church and School. For many years, he generously volunteered his time to help Sister Marie Paul prepare for the annual school recitals. One of his special responsibilities was helping build and set up the stage and carefully moving the pianos onto the stage for the performances. He never sought recognition for these efforts, but his willingness to help year after year reflected his servant's heart, dependability, and commitment to supporting the students and parish community. Music was another important part of Med's life. He was a gifted violinist and enjoyed playing at family gatherings. At holiday celebrations he often played the violin along with his son, creating cherished memories for family and friends. Med loved fishing. Family fishing trips to Otter Lake became treasured traditions, creating memories that continue to be shared across generations. He took great pride in teaching his children and grandchildren the skills he loved. Med also loved classic cars and restored a couple. A 67 Chevy Camaro and a 57 Cadillac along with a few others. If a car struck his fancy, he might buy it, fix is up and drive it around on occasion. One of Med's greatest joys was becoming a grandfather and later a great-grandfather. He adored spending time with his grandchildren (Kaitlin, Patrick, Daniella, Gabriella, Nicholas, Sarah) and great-grandchildren (Fox, Forrest and Ophelia), taking them fishing, playing cards, sharing stories, teaching life lessons, and creating lasting memories. He especially enjoyed entertaining them with spooky stories after dark and later taking the great grandkids on rides around the farm in his golf cart. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him immense pride and happiness. Above all, Med was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who worked hard, shared his talents generously, and created traditions that will continue to live on through the many lives he touched. He was surrounded as he passed by his daughter Kathleen and her husband Chris, his grandchildren, Kaitlin, Patrick, Ian, Daniella and Gabriella, his great grandchildren Fox and Forrest along with Connor, Kaitlin’s husband, Mark, Daniella’s partner and Nick Gabriella’s husband. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his creativity, his love of music and fishing, his generosity to his church and community, his sense of humor, and his unwavering dedication to his family.

Tributes

Medard K. Domkowski

January 22, 1942 - June 5, 2026