Prairie State Wire

Jerome L. Klonowski, aged 97, of Kankakee, passed away on July 4, 2025, at Riverside Medical Center. Born on November 12, 1927, in Kankakee, Jerome was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He married Patricia Hastings in 1953 and shared 72 wonderful years together. Jerome worked at Kroehler’s for 36 years and Kankakee School District 111 for 11 years. A passionate Chicago White Sox fan, Jerome had a deep love for baseball and was known for his patriotism. He served in the United States Army during World War II in the Pacific.

A parishioner of St. Patrick Catholic Church in Kankakee, Jerome cherished his family. Survived by his wife and daughters, he was a proud grandfather and great-grandfather to six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Jerome will be remembered for his dedication to his family and community. His visitation and funeral Mass will be held on July 10, 2025, at Clancy-Gernon-Hertz Funeral Home and St. Patrick Catholic Church, respectively. Memorials in his honor may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Jerome is preceded in death by his parents and four brothers.

Click here to read the original obituary.