Christopher Ziolkowski

Sgt. Christopher "Chris" Anthony Ziolkowski of Makanda, Illinois, passed away November 2, 2017 at the age of 42. He was born on September 17, 1975 in Harvey, Illinois, to Ron and Ann Ziolkowski, who currently reside in Peotone, Illinois. Chris looked up to his two older sisters: Debbie (John) Kijowski of Channahon, Illinois and Elisa (Chuck) Krcilek of Apache Junction, Arizona. He loved his four nephews and niece as if they were his own children. Nathan Kijowski, Brandon and Christian Krcilek, and Zack and Nicole Kijowski, mentoring each of them and keeping a strong bond that they will all hold dear for the rest of their lives. Many aunts, uncles, cousins, and endless friends celebrated Chris, including his beloved, Beth Bivens. Together they cared for their two labs: Fi and Dooley. At the age of just 17, he left to serve our nation in the United States Marine Corps after graduating early from Peotone High School with a wrestling state-champion title. Awarded eight times, Chris is a combat war veteran having served in Somalia with the CAAT (Combine Anti Armor Team) Alpha, Weapons Company 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment aka "Cat Team Alpha" facilitating the evacuation of the UN Forces. This was the only amphibious withdrawal under fire in Marine Corps history. Their team was awarded the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. In 2004, Chris graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. The beauty of southern Illinois inspired him to build a home in Makanda, on Cedar Lake. Chris accomplished no less than he ever set his mind to in his 42 short years, traveling the world to experience astonishing places and meet many amazing people. He was a certified scuba and skydiver, underwater welder, certified deep-sea and commercial diver, and earned his explosives license. During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, he was utilizing his underwater skills and endured a spinal cord injury resulting in the addition of artificial discs to his back. Though he would struggle with pain, it never once ceased his spirit nor love for the beauty of life. Spending time camping, bow hunting, and entertaining were among his favorite activities, however nothing compared to the peace he found on his boat fishing and enjoying God's beauty on Cedar Lake. Chris was a man of faith and believed that God would guide him through all hardships, all the while giving more to this world than he ever took. Stopping at nothing to help a friend, family member or even stranger, he was truly the most generous, honorable, and elevated person any of us knew and will ever know. Rest peacefully Chris, until me meet again. In lieu of flowers donations to www.FreedomFighterOutdoors.org would be appreciated. The family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, IL 60423 on Thursday, November 16, 2017 from 3:00 PM until Celebration of Life Service at 7:00 PM. Lying In State, Friday, November 17, 2017 from 10:30 AM unitl time of Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 Noon at St. Paul the Apostle Church, 511 North Conrad Ave, Peotone, IL 60468.