Shared Stories about Mike
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From:
McDonald Beavers
I always referred to the dearly departed as "Big Mike" in order to differentiate Big Mike from the younger Big Michael. Having moved from Lockport many many moons ago, regrettably I did not spend enough time with Big Mike. When I picture Mike I always picture him with a big shit eatin' grin on his face talking sports or about one of the kids or both. He was always happy to see me and the feeling was mutual. Over the years I have stolen one of my dad's favorite lines: "I miss you as much as I can". It is such a great line because it's like a triple entendre . So, whenever corresponding with Betty Boop I always put a note somewhere on the card relating to Betty to tell Big Mike that I miss him as much as I can.
In summation, I am in awe of what Mike did. To be the father of four screaming toddlers and having never killed or injured any of them. Seriously, Mike was a highly evolved soul who came to earth to teach us Love. Mike, I love you and "miss you as much as I can." See you on the other side!
From:
Jamie Thornton
I have two (of many) memories that stick out to me. The first was how amazing of a chef he was, and how he loved to feed people. Mary brought some leftovers to school when we worked together, and I commented how delicious it looked. Within a few days, she was bringing a tray of food he made for me: a full course meal. It was the only meatloaf anyone has ever made just for me.
Another memory, which I’ve shared numerous times due to how lovingly I remember it, is when Mary and I were going to the airport during a snowstorm to travel to New York for a week. He and Mary were in front of my house with time to spare (they are both the most punctual people I know) and instead of waiting in a heated car, he helped himself to the snow shovel already out there and completely shoveled the sidewalk for us. He wasn’t wearing snow boots. He was always helping and I see that wonderful quality alive and well. Sending love and prayers to the Koleno family.
From:
Kathleen Dorsey
I was lucky to be roomies with Mary in Chicago. We shared plenty of laughs and I will never forget her kindness inviting me to celebrate Easter. I felt so welcome and it was great to chat with Mr. Koleno about my beloved New Jersey.
What a small world! He was familiar with the area I grew up in and it was so nice to chat about home. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary and the Koleno family.
From:
Jason Anderson
I am going to have to concur with Tommy B., Mr. Koleno meant and did so much for us kids who went to school with you at St. Dennis. He was a near-constant presence in so many of our formative years through school, church, and after-school athletics. His name jumped off the page in yesterday’s Tribune and the image that sticks in my mind most is greeting him at church, and watching him walk past me in the isle with one of those long-handled collection plates.
Back then it was normally a full suit for church and he always seemed to carry an old-school confidence as he went about his business. Mr. Koleno was someone to be looked up to, and to me as a young boy, he seemed larger than life. In sports, AYSO or Cardinal Athletics, I was mostly a lost cause, but in those times with only so many kids our age you practiced and played and were included regardless of ability to be part of the team and build relationships. I put a photo I found in an old scrapbook onto a post at Anderson-Goodale which I wanted to share in hopes that Mike and Drew and others perhaps in that photo will see it and recall a good memory of Mr. Koleno.
Lastly, I also agree I cannot count the number of times I would see Mr. Koleno at the corn roast booth. I feel like I would stop to say hello even if I wasn’t going to get anything just because it was him behind the screens watching us roam around on the outside. I think he looked out for all of us quite a lot, and I know he will be missed most by his family, but also by the greater community of people he left a small mark on which will last our lifetimes.
From:
Rick and Carole Onik
Mike and Betty were two of the first friendly faces we met when we joined the St. Dennis family over 30 years ago. We shared so many school activities and important milestones in our children's lives. Whether it was sports, academics, or sacramental events, we could count on seeing Mike there, supporting his family.
We knew our boys were in good hands when they were at the Koleno house. Rick enjoyed coaching basketball with Mike at St. Dennis and the stories continue to this day. There will be a void at Sunday Mass without seeing Mike in his familiar pew.
We will miss running into him at our grandchildren's school and sporting events. His pride in his children was magnified in his love for those precious grandkids! They are his legacy of a life well-lived, where his love of God was evident in the way he loved, cared for, and treated others. Treasure every moment you spent with him, and know that he will send you little messages now and then to remind you that he is always with you. Love to Betty, Mike, Drew, Dan and Mary Catherine.
From:
Larry Smith
I am sorry for your loss, Betty, Mike's family, and his friends. I'm sorry for my loss, as well. Mike and I were first cousins. His mother and mine (Rose) were sisters. My siblings and I grew up near Elgin. At that time, we knew Mike as "Mickey." At least a couple of times each year, we would travel to Chicago's south side to visit my mom's sisters Gloria, Mary, Ann, and their families. Our base of operations was invariably the Koleno home at 91st and Woodlawn. I have many fond memories of those times.
I feel blessed to have known my cousin, Mick, and I pray that God gives strength, especially at this time, to those most close to him.
From:
John Hock
Not only was Mike always extremely nice to me every time I saw him when I was hanging out with Drew, I had the pleasure of working for Will County for a couple years when he was working there. I would run into him from time to time and he always took a few minutes to have a conversation and ask about how my family was doing.
Beyond that, he did this very funny and nice thing of leaving post-its on my desk that would sometimes greet me in the morning. Nothing would start off a great day better than sitting down to find a note on my desk that said something like "Hi there Johnny - You the Man!" He was a great guy and will obviously be missed. -John Hock
From:
Steve Koleno
In such difficult times like these it's hard to find any positives, let alone anything to be thankful for. As I read through these different memories that people have of my uncle I can honestly say that I am thankful. I am thankful to hear how he impacted so many lives. I'm thankful to hear how much he was loved. But probably most of all, I'm thankful to see memories that my cousins children have of their grandfather.
For as much as Uncle Mike is similar to my dad (Uncle Marty) whether it be Chicago sports, mechanics, the first to leave places, or even in appearance, the thing they share most in common is their love for family. I will forever miss the two of them talking about their childhood and the troubles they gave gram and Auntie Glor back in the old neighborhood. We miss you dearly Uncle Mike may you rest in peace.
From:
Ashley Bulger
So sorry for your loss Betty and family. Thinking of all of you at this difficult time. 💕
From:
Tom Boland
Mr. Koleno, Thank you for touching my life. I had so many fond memories of you throughout my child-hood, and I wanted to Thank You for some of those that still stick with me today:
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Teaching me how to rebound in 5th Grade Boys basketball, ( keep the ball up high and pivot!)
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Driving Me, Mike and Drew down Briggs street every morning for high school ( Mr. D's!, Chucks-Baby Chucks!), while listening to the Score
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Making Drew the most ridiculous lunch sandwiches I have ever seen, and making me a little jealous
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Pulling up to the front of church after 10 AM Mass, yelling " Betty, Let's Go! Ditka's on!"
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Greeting us every Sunday at mass
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Working and setting up the Corn Roast pit every Canal Days
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The Cubs/Sox trash talk
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Making me feel good with your infectious smile.
Thank you!
From:
Bobby Turner
Koleno’s I am very sorry for your loss. MPK treated me like family. I loved talking to him. The summer I spent living at Carol’s, I remember he would stop by with food for me even if Mike or Carol wasn’t home. We had so many great conversations. He knew a lot about everything.
When I moved to Mount Greenwood, he would love talking to Lauren and I about what was going on in the neighborhood. Every time I would see him it was like seeing my old man. Checking in on me seeing what was new, asking how my family, kids, and wife were. We would talk about Michigan and lake houses a lot. His love for his family was unbelievable. I see it in all his kids. I will miss seeing him. I truly thought I was the 4th son a lot of the times when I was on 13th street. I ate and loved like a king in that house. Thanks MPK for teaching me how to treat people. Much love Koleno’s RIP MPK.
From:
Karen Vetrovec
On Rich and my wedding day in 2000, Mike was Rich's best man. What a great day that was. But to see those two when they spoke to each other was like time stood still. Such a closeness over 50 years of funny stories I could tell you. Such a shock. My deepest condolences to Betty and all of you. Love, Karen
From:
Joe Audy
As I read through the memories that have already been shared by Mike's family, friends, fellow parishioners, et al., it appears that most bases have been very thoroughly covered. There's not much I can add other than to emphasize that Mike brought those same attitudes/attributes, cheery outlooks, dependable/reliable work ethic to work every day.
There were times when our work environment wasn't especially pleasant: plant closings, layoffs, business losses, quality problems, production problems, and so many other crises. Disastrous periods such as these were the times when I was happy to have Mike “in the foxhole with me”. Not only was he an experienced, talented engineer, but, more importantly, he was an outstanding “team player”. My prayers are with him and his family: God bless you, Mike!
From:
John Koleno
I have so many found memories of my Uncle Mike. It’s hard to believe, but I still remember Uncle Mike taking me to the Old Chicago Amusement Park (yes that was a thing), the Brookfield Zoo and one of my first visits to the Museum of Science and Industry. Looking back, and doing the math, I must have been 8 or 9 years old and Uncle Mike must have been in his late 20’s/early 30’s. On those trips, I don’t remember a lot of rules or seat belts, but I do remember a lot of cotton candy and good times.
My Dad and Uncle Mike were very close and my Dad loved to talk about his brother. The stories always started the same way: “Let me tell you a story about your Uncle Mick”. Of course, Uncle Mike was the antagonist in every story, like the one (according to my Dad) where Uncle Mike stabbed him in the leg over a bag of potato chips. There was also the story about a pipe bomb exploding in Uncle Mike’s face that left burn marks that he convinced Grandma were due to being out in the sun. There was another story about Uncle Mike jumping into a lake to avoid being caught ditching school and convincing Grandma he fell in a puddle. Who knows where the embellishments start and stop but what is clear is that both men loved each other and shared a passion for Chicago sports (with one south side exception), a strong work ethic and a deep devotion to family and friends.
As I grew older and moved away, my visits home became shorter and less frequent. Anytime I would come for a visit my Dad would always say “before you leave town Uncle Mick wants to say hello”. No matter how long since we last spoke, Uncle Mike would start every conversation the same way: “They Stink John!, They Stink!”(referring to our beloved Cubs).
One year, my girlfriend at the time (now my wife) and I were driving in from DC to see a Notre Dame football game. I had two extra tickets and asked my Dad if he wanted to give them to my brother or the cousins. Of course the tickets never made it to my brother or the cousins, instead my Dad and Uncle Mike were waiting for us at the stadium. I later told Amy that I was surprised in how excited they both were to see the the game. I still remember how she stopped me and said “it wasn’t the game, they were excited to see you”. It struck me how right she was and how important family was to these two men.
One of the last times I spoke with Uncle Mike he called to tell me about his back surgery. He spent two minutes on the surgery, 10 minutes on the latest grandkid escapades and 40 minutes on Nelson’s baseball game and an alleged illegal bat. He said he was so hot over the bat incident that he had to wait in the car for the game to end. That’s my uncle Mike: All In, All Family, All The Time………so many found memories.
From:
Maia Novak
My name is Maia and I am Julia’s little sister. I have gotten to know Mike and Betty at birthday parties, baptisms and any celebration related to my nieces and nephews. Mike and Betty were always there.
Mike was such a happy man. There was always a smile on his face. He was always so welcoming and friendly. It did not take Matt and I long to love him. He was so easy to love. Mike and Betty even made the trip to Michigan for our wedding 10 years ago. The bible says to be "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). This was Mike. He was so thankful and he truly enjoyed each and every day.
"For it is in giving that we receive; it is in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life"- St. Francis of Assisi. Mike was always giving. Giving of his time, his knowledge, his love and his faith. Let us all live like Mike and praise God for each and every day we are given.
Mike reminds us to smile often, show respect, love big and always give thanks for our many blessings. He was the ideal role model for us to remember and look up to. It brings me great joy to have know such a wonderful man that I will remember and think of often.
From:
John Beavers
Years ago Mike had a chance to talk about things and we went off on many tangents. Eventually it came around to tools. I know Mike did a ton of stuff for Mom and the kids. He told me about borrowing tools from Dad. He said you had to sign the tools out. Holy crap! Probably stemmed from my using his tools as a teen and not putting them back. Anyway Mike said "John you didn't want to be on that list. Every time you would see Goop he'd ask about that item."
I never was one on one with Mike very much as he was cooking and commotion with the kids. Calm and relaxed is how I always saw him. Then again i didn't live with him. Betty Boop made it for 41 and the kids, grandkids and relatives love him. So Mike when I need help doing something mechanical, especially electrical, I will know you are near and telling me to get a certified electrician.😎👍💓
From:
Kevin Beavers
Uncle Mike was always a true lover of family and sports. Even though we did not like many of the same sports teams (Cubs vs Sox, Gators vs Irish, Bears vs Packers) we could always still talk about sports. Especially when the Blackhawks started their playoff and championship run.
My favorite thing about him is how you could call him from anywhere in Chicago and he would already know where you were based on the pot hole that was nearest. So if you were lost, he quickly got you where you needed to go. Always appreciated that during the map quest days.
I'll miss you uncle Mike. Thanks for always being kind to me. Even if you had to legally because I was your god child. RIP 🖤❤
From:
Nelson Koleno
I have a lot of favorite memories of Papa. My favorite thing he made was his pasta. I love talking about all the sports with him, I would laugh when he would call the Sox the stinky Sox. But my favorite memory was when he goes to my games - when he came to my games I always wanted to play my best I love him so much. I will miss him. 😢💔
From:
Andy McKeague
In high school I was a regular at the Koleno household spending many days and nights with the whole Koleno crew. Mr. Koleno treated me like part of the family which I am sure he did for many others as well! He and Mrs. Koleno would walk Big Run Golf Club with my folks, I am sure the conversations were more about Sterk's meat department than our golf rounds! After our rounds we would all hang out on the patio and grill and have plenty of laughs.
Mr. Koleno took Dan and I to my first and only Notre Dame football game. As many of you know Mr. Koleno was a huge ND fan. It was such an electric atmosphere and it couldn't have been with better company. The seats were fantastic (behind the endzone) and the pre-game sandwiches were even better! They won that day and it was a great time all around. I've never been back to the stadium but will always remember that day. The entire McKeague family sends our condolences to the Koleno family, Mr. Koleno will be missed.
From:
Mia Senko
Ah.... Mike... where to begin. Such a loving man. He was selfless with his time and talents. I cannot begin to count the many times he was my chauffeur for my numerous flights to and from Illinois. Never a complaint!! I remember a few times my 3 sisters , myself and our husbands all headed out to dinner.,. Again with Mike driving. Then we end us at one of our houses playing Balderdash. After a few cocktails.. we abandon the "real" game and just make up outlandish definitions. I can still hear Mike hysterically laughing as I bolted for the bathroom in order to not wet myself as he came up with another zinger definition that cracked us up!!
When you asked him to prepare something specific for a family potluck, it was usually enough to feed an army!! And he never arrived with only one thing.... he didn't know how to do anything small! I remember he gifted my sister with an amber ring. He was so excited to give it to her.... What can I say? His motto, " Go big or go home" You have left a legacy of love in your wake and we are all blessed to have been touched by you !! You will be missed. You've earned your rest!
From:
Jeanne Maza
Mike has had a special little place in my heart since 1997. When my husband and I moved to Lockport in 1997, we were trying to decide which Parish Church to belong to. It was very important to me to find a Church family because I had just left a Parish in the city to which I belonged to all 50 years of my life thus far. The first person to warmly greet us at St. Dennis was one Michael Koleno. I knew at that moment that I had found my new ‘home’. It is one of those times I will not forget. RIP to Michael and peace and love to the entire Koleno family.
From:
Bob and Carol Lydigsen
Betty, Mike, Drew, Dan, and Mary, We are so sorry for the loss of a wonderful husband, and a cherished father and grandfather. Mike passed on a legacy of love of family and faith in God to those he leaves behind. How lucky you were to have him in your lives. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
From:
Carol Beavers
Mike was very well read and always willing to share his knowledge with others. I would call him and ask about a house repair I needed and he would tell me how to do it Before I could even resign myself to work on the repair he was at my house within 10 minutes with his tool box in hand. He also did so many things for my parents throughout the years -- especially after my father passed away. My Mother could not have stayed in her home if it wasn't for Mike's dedication to helping out my Mom. I don't know how he managed to take care of three homes - not including his children's homes. Not to mention car repairs. I too remember going on vacations with the Koleno's.
The beach was a favorite place to go for the day. As Drew stated, Mike made the best sandwiches wrapped individually in aluminum foil. They were delicious! As soon as we got to the beach Mike would carry the green Coleman cooler to a spot near the water. He would have his own lawn chair and his green wool Army blanket for us to sit on. There's nothing like six people sitting on a hot beach on a wool blanket covered in sand. I don't ever remember Mike putting a toe in the water. He just enjoyed the sun and watching his children play.
Overnight trips were a little different. With seven of us we always got adjoining rooms. When we'd get there Betty and I would get everything set up in one room while Mike looked for an ice machine, fill up one bathroom sink with ice, put his cans of beer in the sink and turn the temperature down to 60 degrees. Needless to say "the tundra" as we called his room was too cold for the kids to sleep in so we all crammed into the other room. There would be two double beds in our room with bodies everywhere. Mike slept like a baby.
Mike was very slow to anger or complain -- oh except for watching Chicago Bear games. As soon as there was a fumble, sack, or touchdown scored against the Bears he would say "the Bears suck" and he would change the channel to another game or turn off the TV. That sent everyone scrambling to find another TV to watch the game. I'm still amazed, to this day, that he watched Super Bowl XX all the way to the end, especially when Payton fumbled in the first quarter.
Mike had back surgery recently and was not allowed to drive for a time. Therefore, Betty had to take up Mike's morning routine per his instructions. Go to Speedway and get the Chicago Tribune and the Joliet Herald Newspaper (which my Dad called "yesterday's news tomorrow). Also get him a cup of dark roasted coffer -- plain. If the coffee in the pot is too dark don't buy it -- it will be too old. Go to the other Speedway and get the coffee there. This is all before my sister had to get ready for work.
Sadly, Mike's Dad passed away when Mike was only 12 years old and his Mom has also since passed. I try to remember during these difficult times that he's with his brother again, his Mom and his Dad that he hasn't seen in 61 years. The joy of that reunion God bless you Mike and thank you for EVERYTHING!! Because of the love you had for my sister, you live on through your wonderful children and beautiful grandchildren. You have taught us well! Peace and Love, Cal
From:
Erik Senko
Obviously we all know what a great guy Uncle Mike was and how he had such a positive impact on the lives of so many people. I’m lucky to count myself among them. Some of my greatest memories involve him, and going back to Lockport was the highlight of my year during my childhood. Particularly spending time with the Koleno family (in spite of Drew copying me and wearing all my dirty clothes).
I have so many memories with Uncle Mike, whether it’s catching my first fish or backing into Drew’s friend’s car in the driveway (and having Uncle Mike call me the next day to tell me I destroyed his hood) or him freaking out and wanting to leave at 3pm for Drew’s 7pm football game that was 10 minutes away -- ”We have to get there early to get a good seat.” 😂
For the last 40 years whenever I see Mostaccioli (in a restaurant, supermarket, etc.) I ALWAYS think of Uncle Mike. He was always so great to me, throughout my entire life. He was always kind and generous and full of life. He would never hesitate to be as helpful as possible, no matter what I needed. I know how sad I am....so I can only imagine how tough this must be for the rest of the family. I was very fortunate to have such a great uncle and I will miss him a lot.
From:
Sharon Gerdes
I am so sorry for your loss! You are a wonderful family and my thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
From:
Julia Koleno
I truly feel so lucky to have had such an amazing father-in-law, he always treated me like a daughter. It's hard not living closer to my family in Michigan, but I've always been so grateful to have the best in-laws I could have ever imagined. Mike was always present for everything. From the most meaningful milestones of visiting new grand babies at the hospital, to just simply checking in our house when we were out of town and everything in-between like birthday parties, baptisms, first communions, sporting events, school events.. You name it and he was there with a smile on his face like the Proud Papa he was.
Mike was always willing to help with anything around our house. The day after he passed, our bedroom door was jammed, locked from the inside. We tried everything to get the door open and the handle off, we eventually had a neighbor come help. When it was all said and done I told Mike "this is something we would have called your dad to help with". Mike replied "it's like my dad is saying, hey, you miss me yet?". These last couple of days around the house I've found myself taking a pause where Mike Sr had fixed something..
While I'll certainly miss his handyman capabilities, what I'll miss most is Mike being at family parties and at any kid related event. I'm so happy our kids have been lucky to live so close to such an amazing Papa. It breaks my heart they don't get more time with him and some are too young that they won't remember him. One thing I do know is that our kids love when we tell stories, and we'll be sure to tell 1000 Papa stories to keep his memories alive. We miss you already Papa and we'll love you forever!!
From:
Luke Koleno
My grandpa took me to my first Cubs game and they won. He would always be at my baseball games and root for me. My favorite memory of my grandpa is I always sleep in my underwear. and he will be in the living room watching sports in his chair. And I will come out and he will say Luke put some clothes on!
I love my grandpa so much. And I was lucky to have known him.
From:
Nancy and Neil
Best memories will forever be the kids wedding, the birth of all the grand children with both the the scary and happy parts. We'll remember Mike's Christmas sausage and the general sharing of experiences together between our families.
We will also miss seeing Mike at all the dance and sporting events.
From:
Royce Beavers
I first met Mike when he and Betty started dating at the age of 15. We playfully battled between my love for the White Sox and his love for the Cubs, but we bonded over the love of Chicago sports. He took me to my first Cubs game (reluctantly...just kidding!), my first Bulls game, and to my second of many, many Bears games together over the years.
Being the youngest of 7, he was, like my older brothers, 16 years older than me. I always saw him as more than a brother-in-law, but another brother. He was immensely helpful with working on my vehicles, electrical work throughout my house over the years and overall guidance. He was always someone I could call with a question or to lend a hand. I'll always remember him because of the ways he's helped me over the years and the bond we shared with sports. His love for his family was an inspiration for me and raising my own.
I have many stories from over the years, but my absolute favorite takes place in 1985, for the Bears first home playoff game in 22 years. As a ticket holder, there was no one else I'd rather have with me. The first game was a divisional playoff game. We spent the morning tailgating the only we knew how. As if that wasn't enough, we smuggled in beers, as we always did. If anyone knows Mike, he hated the concession prices. So to save a few dollars, we decided to each stuff a 6 pack into our jackets. Once I made it past security, I turned to observe as he was harassed and yelled at by security for being old enough to know better than to smuggle beers in his Army jacket. As he frantically scrambled to remove the alcohol, I politely waved and ran to my seat as he fumbled and searched, nearly in tears, begging for forgiveness. Moments before kickoff, Mike would plop down next to me, narrowly escaping an afternoon in the car alone. The Bears won 21-0, making the adventure all worth it. The next week, Mike was very vocal about absolutely refusing to ever attempt the smuggle again. The Bears would again go on to win 24-0, on their route to winning the Super Bowl.
I will miss him the way I looked at him; as a brother. Because of how he took me in as a young man, I tried to do the same with his boys. Rest in peace, Big Mike!
From:
Ryan Beavers
To know Uncle Mike was to know his supernatural ability to vanish from a family function without notice. He was always early, present, talkative, and cordial with a tray in hand, and then gone with the snap of a finger and no trace but an empty Miller Lite can. It was a skill that would confuse me as a child, that I'd begin to understand as a teenager, and I'd eventually envy as an adult.
He was unbelievably kind and generous to grandma Beavers in the years she was alone. Whether it was a meal, finding the 'input' button on a remote, or simply checking in. I was always happy and grateful to see that and she was very lucky to have it. I'll never forget those 'How about them Avs?' smirks with a pat on the back and a giggle as they sunk to the bottom of the league and the Blackhawks went on to win it all repeatedly. It always came back to sports, even if just to rub it in.
Rest in peace, Uncle Mike! You're in great company.
From:
Drew Koleno
My dad always loved the beach. As kids we spent many summer days/nights in various beaches in Saugatuck, New Buffalo, Holland, and others amongst the Midwest. But his favorite was Porter beach in Indiana. Some of my fondest memories with my family were at that place.
My dad would wake up at the crack and start making sandwiches for the day trip. Not just any sandwiches though. Some of the most unique hoagie concoctions you can think of. No one was alike. All with assorted meats, condiments, and breads. He would wrap up pickles and make sides. Then he would pack it all in the Coleman cooler (along with a few ice cold beverages) The prep would take like 4 hours. He would sit there in the sand all day and watch us play and eat. Dad loved nothing more than a sunny day at beach and watching people eat the food he prepared.
From:
Carolyn Dewart
My favorite memories of my Uncle and Godfather are from Christmas Eve. I always looked forward to walking into the Koleno household and smelling all of the delicious food Uncle Mike had made. It was such a lively way to spend the holiday, and I always felt so loved surrounded by Uncle Mike, Aunt Betty, and my cousins.
No matter the event or task at hand, Uncle Mike always showed up. He never missed an important event or an opportunity to help. I will miss him deeply. Sending all of my love to the Koleno Family.
From:
Kim And Dave West
Dave and I have so many wonderful memories of Mike. I will always remember our talks after mass when I would ask Mike about his grandchildren. He had the biggest smile and his eyes twinkled for the pure love of his children, including his daughter-in-laws, and his grandchildren.
The many trips to Frankfort fest, St. Dennis dinner dances, and Old Canal Days all have special memories. Mike was truly one of the kindest people we know. We will miss his smile and laughter.
From:
Jessica Koleno
One of my favorite memories of my father-in-law, while I probably couldn't say that at the time, was while Dan and I were building our new house on Kildare. I had to go back to work after summer break, and I was really bummed that I couldn't drive past and see the daily progress anymore. Not to worry, though, because Mike took the reins.
After his daily visit to Sterks, he would "drop by" the house and report back to me. "Don't worry, Jess...I talked to Jamie and told him the fireplace paint had some streaks in it and they should repaint." Or "after analyzing your layout, I have decided that you should put in a laundry shoot in your master closet. I told Jamie already and it is in the works." Looking back, Mike always had our best interests in mind. If he couldn't lend a hand himself, he always made sure my family was well taken care of.
There was never a job too big or small that he didn't offer to help with--whether it was putting up light fixtures, bringing the kids over spaghetti dinners, or letting Penny out while we were at work. I couldn't have asked for a better father-in-law, who always made me feel like family, even before I officially became a Koleno.
We will forever miss you, but never forget you, Papa! Go Cubbies!
From:
Jamer Uffman
What a wonderful man. Some of my favorite memories of childhood were playing basketball at central square under his coaching. We all would get a kick out of it when he would say “GEE MA KNEE! You guys are out of shape!” What a wonderful person to grow up around and learn values from. He will be missed!
From:
Dan Koleno
The one thing that I will always remember about my dad, and one thing that the he definitely instilled in us kids was to never be late for anything, especially a family party. Birthday party at 6, we’d be there at 5:30. Basketball game at 7, we’d leave the house at 5.
I remember a lot of times showing up so early to parties that people would still be decorating, the wait staff was still getting ready for the party, or the host family hadn’t even shown up yet. Fast forward a few years and Jess and I took over the responsibility of hosting Christmas Eve at our house. The first year that we hosted, we told everyone to be over around 5-5:30pm. Every year my dad would show up at 2pm. He’d do a once over and make sure we knew how to store/cook the food that he brought over. Looking back on it, my hangouts with my dad on Christmas Eve will always be a great memory. We would have a few hours to talk about his old Christmas memories, play games and talk about what was going on in my life.
When asked by us kids why he always wanted us to be so early for every event, he simply replied—“first one’s in, first one’s out.”
From:
Josh Murawski
One of my favorite memories of Papa K is when he would come visit Dan and I at ISU - most of the time to repair whatever car Dan was driving that month - maybe the old white van or maybe the Lumina with “cop springs and cop tires on it” as he referred.
One morning he came down -early- woke me up banging on my bedroom door saying “get up! We are going to the bar!” It was 9:00 am. We proceeded to sit at Mulligans for hours throwing back Miller Lites. After each one - he told the bar tender that the one he just finished had a hole in it and he needed a new one. To this day I use that line regularly - you will be greatly missed Papa K - thoughts and prayers to Mike, Drew, Dan, Mary and Mrs K.
From:
Stephen Murray
Being the youngest “regular” at 7:30 mass it was often the case I was the only alter server. I began many Sunday mornings with your father in the sacristy preparing for mass. He was always a happy and warm his smile would light up the room.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
From:
Jorie Rakowski
My prayers are with Betty, Mary and all the Koleno men during this tragic time.
From:
Anthony Pesha
Lots of memories of Mr. K, I always enjoyed running into him on August 15th of every summer at the St. Jerome’s parade, he would always find me and my family and chat for a couple minutes.
Two other memories that I’ll never forget. One time I was going golfing with Mike and Dan, we had to stop at Mr. K’s house, Mike and Dan were borrowing some money to golf and Mr. K asked how much they needed. What ever the amount was I remember Mr. K saying “how much?!?! What are you guys driving Cadillacs on the course?!” That was just his personality, he was always joking.
One last memory that stands out was in high school, on Fridays Me, Mike and Drew would play hockey at 6am. Well one Friday Mike drove his is car to hockey and parked it in the school lot, I thought it would be funny to back in next to him about 3 inches from his drivers door thinking it would be funny how he'd have to climb through the car from the back door just to get into the front seat . Well it just so happened that day Mr. K was picking Mike's car up during the school day while we were all in school in order to get Mike's oil changed. Mike found me after 2nd period of class and said “hey thanks man, my dad wanted me to thank you for your delightful parking job next to my car this morning!”
There’s many more memories of MPK but those two stand out in my mind. He was an awesome guy, he always made you feel like family. He always made sure you had a full belly and never let the opportunity of a wide crack to escape. It was an honor to have known him!
From:
Kathy Dewart
My Mom & Dad, his in-laws, could always depend on Mike to help with anything they needed! Handy man, courier, driver & chef, He was a jack of all trades and always willing to help my parents or anyone who was in need! He loved to cook and always had something cooking on the stove, it always smelled wonderful when I stopped over!
After my Father passed away, he would always bring food to my Mom to make sure she was well fed! He was a great brother-in-law and uncle to my daughters! He will be missed! I’ll always remember the delicious potato salad and inventive salads he would bring to our parties! As my daughter said, “God really does take His best home during the holidays!” R.I.P. “Big Mike!
From:
Angie Koleno
I’m sure EVERYONE knows how big a Cubs fan Uncle Mike is...I’ll never forget the uh-hem heated discussions of Chicago baseball when we would all get together. And me, being the natural peacemaker I am, would constantly try to build a bridge...the Chicago Bears. 😂
From:
Bill Bonko
There are a few things that I always loved and found fascinating about MPK. The first one that comes to mind is that he could give you driving directions to any place in the continental United States. He was Google maps in human form. No joke, the man could give you 3 different sets of directions to get anywhere.
Secondly, he made made some of the best chili ever. He once sent Drew to a wedding that he knew I was also attending with a Tupperware bowl full of chili for me. He included the cheese, onions, sour cream, and a fork wrapped in a napkin. I took off my coat, tucked my tie into my shirt and destroyed it immediately.
Last and most importantly he was kind. Plain and simple. Whenever he was around he always made sure to say hello and ask what was new with you. He will be greatly missed. He was one of a kind.
From:
Steve Fleming
I’m very sorry for you and your family’s loss. I’m friends with Mike and Drew from Providence, and know how close and great your family is. Sending my sincerest condolences.
From:
Mary Koleno
I remember all of the years my dad took me to the yearly Lockport Park District's Daddy-Daughter dance. My dad and I would always dress up for the occasion (sometimes even according to themes). After every dance he would also take me out to share a hot fudge sundae at a local diner. These were especially precious moments given that our daily family life was a bit more lively with 3 older brothers at home.
It meant so much to me that my dad always made me feel so special as his only daughter. Also, it cannot go without mentioning that my dad moved me into and out of more apartments in the city of Chicago than he ever fathomed he would have to. While he did eventually retire from this position, he helped me move many mattresses from Rogers Park to Lincoln Park and Logan Square. He just signed up for this role like he knew it was part of the deal. He was such a selfless person who always showed his love for others through endless acts of service. All of us will feel the absence of his care and love.
From:
Michael M. Koleno
My dad always loved sports. Football and baseball standout to me as his favorite sports to enjoy and watch. Prior to meeting my mom, my dad had season tickets for the Chicago Cubs and attended numerous Chicago Bear games every year. He had buddies who had season tickets for Notre Dame football, the Chicago Blackhawks and more.
As a kid, I remember my dad taking us to sporting events with him. I remember parking in the Green Lot near Wrigley Field on game days and eating sandwiches in the car before leaving for the walk over to Wrigley. I remember walking around the campus of Notre Dame with dad and my brothers on Saturdays in the fall as a kid.
As we grew older and moved into adulthood many of the tickets that fell into my dad's lap were often passed on to his kids. This practice increased as his boys began having kids of their own.
One of the exceptions to this pattern when my cousin John Koleno rang my dad up during the Cubs fall postseason run of 2016. At the beginning of the NLCS John called and asked if my dad and I would be interested in attending Game 5 at Wrigley. We didn't know what the significance of what Game 5 would be at that time but as the series went on it became clear that the Cubs would have a chance to win their first NL pennant since 1945 at the very game we were set to attend.
My dad was giddy as the game approached. We met John at a hotel in Oakbrook where he was staying and the three of us Uber'ed off to city. We stopped in a few bars before the game before we heading into Wrigley for the game. We met up with Drew as he had also secured a ticket for Game 5 as well.
The excitement and nervous feelings were thick and visible in the air that night in just about every direction you looked. After the game my cousin John would go on to summarize the magical night by saying, "the best part about that game was that it was never in doubt" -- John was referring to the Cubs' comfortable command most of the game and implied thankfully that it severely limited the anticipation of the other shoe dropping at Wrigley that night.
The Cubs not only went on to win Game 5 and the NL pennant that night but weeks later won a very dramatic Game 7 in the World Series. I know how much attending that game with his sons and his nephew meant to my dad. That is just one memory that sticks out in a lifetime of great memories with my dad.
