Prairie State Wire

Justice - Mark A. Leja, aged 35, passed away on September 4, 2025. Survived by his beloved Keeley Shaw, Mark was the devoted son of Stanley and Alexsandra Leja, and the cherished brother of Peter and Alexander (Aleksandra Slaba). He was a loyal friend to Greg Bonello and a treasured grandson of Maria Swiderski, with deceased grandparents Joseph Swiderski, Stanislaw Leja, and Anna Leja. Mark was dearly loved by his aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Mark carved an exceptional career in the film industry, eventually becoming a member of the Directors Guild of America. Renowned for his dedication, resourcefulness, and visionary approach, he contributed to numerous productions including, The Chi, Jerry Springer: Fights, Camera, Action, Shameless, and Chicago MED, among others. Beyond television, Mark's talents shone in commercials and pilots, consistently enhancing each project with his keen attention to detail and unparalleled work ethic.

A natural storyteller, Mark produced award-winning live-action and animated films such as Saudade, Hypothetical, and The Cask of Amontillado.

Offscreen, Mark's pursuits mirrored his zest for life and the world around him. Eager to savor every experience, he engaged in a vast array of endeavors, from miniature painting to music composition, self-taught guitar playing, animation scriptwriting, band formation, album recording, alongside a myriad of other accomplishments. Road trips, film photography, and culinary experimentation were among the many joys he pursued. An enthusiast in every pursuit, Mark tackled each venture with unwavering dedication, passion, and infectious enthusiasm that inspired all around him.

Beyond his professional achievements and hobbies, Mark will be fondly remembered for his love, generosity, wit, passion for film and music, and his wealth of knowledge. His indelible impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him will inspire them to lead more purposeful and vibrant lives.

Mark's life, though brief, exemplified boundless creativity, relentless dedication, and love for those around him. His vibrant spirit and love for life will endure through the stories he shared, the art he created, and the memories he left behind.

In honor of Mark's memory, donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital are gratefully accepted.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, September 7, 2025, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium in Justice. The funeral will be on Monday, September 8, 2025, with prayers and procession from the funeral home to Saint Patricia Church in Hickory Hills for a Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Justice, Illinois.

For flowers or tree planting in Mark's memory, please visit the floral store.

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