Edward John Tomkiewicz

Edward “Eddie” John Tomkiewicz, 85, peacefully passed away on February 8th, 2025, at his home in Arlington Heights, Illinois. Born on November 1st, 1939, in Sulistrowa, Poland to the late Frank “Franciszek” Tomkiewicz and Ludmila Kolawacz. Eddie built a life defined by hard work, faith, and devotion to his family. He dedicated much of his career to the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), where he worked as a track foreman from 1966 until his retirement in 1992. Even after retiring from the CTA, Eddie remained active in his community as a crossing guard for Olive-Mary Stitt School, ensuring the safety of those around him. Beyond his professional life, Eddie found great joy in tending to his property in South Haven, Michigan. He deeply loved farming and took pride in caring for his apple, peach, and pear trees. His passion extended to beekeeping and woodworking—skills that reflected his patience and craftsmanship. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren; Ed’s love and pride for them only deepened as they reached adulthood. A man of strong faith, Eddie was a Berean Bible Student and an acting evangelist. His dedication to spreading the gospel took him across various states and countries, including Poland, Brazil, Canada, California, Michigan, Massachusetts, Florida, Ohio, Oklahoma, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania. His commitment to sharing his beliefs was an integral part of his life’s mission. Eddie is survived by his beloved wife of 32 years, Bridget (Mulkerrin) Tomkiewicz; his children Eva (Tomkiewicz) Plankey and her husband James Plankey; John Tomkiewicz and his wife Adrianna Tomkiewicz; grandchildren Susie Plankey (Eric Jensen), Michael Plankey, Peter Tomkiewicz (Donna), and Matthew Szablowski (Kaylee Vollert); great-granddaughters Emma and Maddie Plankey; as well as three cherished great-grand dogs—Gus, Benson, and Bentley. He was predeceased by his late wife, Maria Tomkiewicz, and brother, Ted (Tadeusz) Tomkiewicz. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Friday, February 14th, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Matz Funeral Home (410 E. Rand Road, Mt. Prospect, IL 60056). A funeral service will be held at the same location on Saturday, February 15th, 2025. A visitation hour will occur from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Interment will follow at Acacia Park Cemetery (7800 W. Irving Park Road, Norridge, IL 60706) at 1:00 PM, with a luncheon afterward. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Eddie’s memory to the American Cancer Society. The family would also like to thank the nurses, physicians, and staff of Illinois Cancer Specialists and Northwest Community Hospital in Arlington Heights for their care and kindness over the years. Eddie’s legacy of faithfulness and dedication will live on through those who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.

Edward John Tomkiewicz

November 1, 1939 - February 8, 2025