Larry S. Kociolek

Larry Stanley Kociolek, loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by his family. Although he battled heart disease for half of his life, his illnesses never defined him. Rather, he was a man whose life was defined by service, dedication, and an unshakable love for family and the joy of bringing people together.

Larry was born on April 29, 1947, in Chicago, IL. He proudly served in the United States Army, where he earned the respect of his peers and showed a commitment to something greater than himself. After his time in the military, Larry spent more than 40 years working at CNA Insurance, where he became a staple in the Data Processing Center. It was at CNA where he ended up meeting Elizabeth (Bette), the love of his life. His professionalism, work ethic, and steady presence made him a mentor to many and a friend to all who crossed his path.

Larry’s true joy was always found in the fellowship of those around him. Whether it was organizing family get-togethers, planning gatherings with friends, or just spending time with loved ones, Larry had a rare ability to make people feel welcome, valued, and celebrated. He believed wholeheartedly in the power of good company - and good food. For Larry, a pizza wasn’t just dinner and a pierogi party wasn’t just a huge mess - they were invitations to connect, share stories, and enjoy the company of those who mattered most.

Above all, Larry’s love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable. He took great joy in their laughter, questions, and simple presence. Whether it was sharing his love for pizza and pierogi, telling them funny bedtime stories, or just being at their sporting events, orchestra concerts, or dance and cheer performances, Larry was the kind of Dad and Grandpa who made every moment special. His grandkids knew him as a source of endless love, wisdom, and support - and that love will continue to shape their lives for years to come.

Larry is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Elizabeth (Meadors) Kociolek, his brother John (Terry) Kociolek, his children Paul Gulbransen, Larry (Lisa) Kociolek, and Sarah (Russel) Lyons, his cherished grandchildren Grayson, Landon, Addison, Sadie, and Quinn, and a host of family and friends who will forever remember his warmth, generosity, and sense of humor. He is preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Helen (Chudzik) Kociolek, stepmother Maxine (Hoffmiller) Kociolek, and son Edwin Gulbransen.

A visitation will be held on August 9, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., with a Celebration of Larry's life at 3:30 p.m. at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park. Family and friends are invited to join in honoring a man who touched so many lives with his kindness, his humor, and his heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his memory to the Heart and Vascular Institute at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn, IL, Heart and Vascular Institute at Advocate Christ Medical Center to support the work of the amazing doctors and nurses who gave Larry so many more memorable years with us through their expertise and compassion.  To donate online click here. 

Larry’s legacy will live on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the bonds he created through fellowship, and in the countless slices of pizza shared in his honor. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know him.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400