Leonard Kozlowski

Leonard Kozlowski, age 88 of Warren, died Friday, December 21, 2012 at the Sanctuary of Fraser Villa in Fraser, Michigan.He was born on November 21, 1924 in Detroit, son of the late John and the late Sophie (nee: Stanczyk) Kozlowski.Leonard was a 1st generation American son of Polish immigrants who grew to be an All-American patriot and whose fabric was woven with the deepest of national roots. When it came to foreign vs. American, Leonard drew a very hard & fast line in his support and beliefs of the country for which he held the utmost in pride. To those who knew him, his character and mindset were definitely centered around a black & white nature, with no room for any gray. He knew what he believed and wasn't afraid to voice an opinion when necessary. To some, Leonard may have come off as having a tough outer shell,…but in all actuality, he was truly a caring and charitable giver. From the tenderness deep within came many examples of his philanthropic heart and his desire to make a difference in people's lives. Ever-cognizant of folks in need, Leonard never had to think twice when it came to reaching out. And his willingness to give was realized in many different forms, like the year he played Santa Claus for the kids. He was happy to fill the role, and even added a special touch when he asked each little girl and boy to say a prayer after their visit. Much of that softness inside was derived from his faith and beliefs, both of which were strong and devout. A member and usher of St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Warren, and formerly of St. Raymond's in Detroit, Leonard's personal ministry impacted many hearts and lives over the years, and there's no doubt that the words "Well done, my good and faithful servant" truly apply.In 1946, Leonard's life was beautifully and wonderfully changed when he promised himself in marriage to the love of his life, Delores. The two went on to build the warmth of home & hearth, raise a beautiful family of children, and grow deeper in love with each passing day. With over 66 years together, their "I do's" truly meant something,…and, obviously, they "did" love, honor and obey until death parted them.For over 30 years, Leonard worked in the automotive industry as a Tool & Die Maker and Lathe Operator. Possessing meticulous detail and profound mathematical skills, he poured the best of his talents into his work and extended the utmost in loyalty and dedication to the job. Along with his daily task set, Leonard was also proud of his position as Union Steward in the workplace. A union man through & through, he was an integral part of the politics and negotiations that helped his fellow man. With years of exemplary service under his belt, Leonard proudly retired in 1990.Another notable trait he'll be remembered for was his unique and genuine love of food. Yes, we all love to eat,…but Leonard took it to heights all his own. One of the outstanding examples shared was the day, at Disneyworld, when he was served up one of their gargantuan Strawberry Shortcakes, a dessert designed for numerous partakers,…and he devoured it all by himself! The old adage states, "when you're eating you're happy,"…so is it any wonder why he was such a happy guy?A loving husband, father and grandfather, Leonard leaves behind a legacy of love that is strong and true, and will be a loving memory with each reflection that is shared and experienced. He will be missed immensely and loved eternally.Beloved husband of Delores. Dear father of Ronald (Judy) Kozlowski, Gary Kozlowski, Raymond (Kim) Kozlowski, Carolyn (Jim) Prentkowski, and the late Marlene. Loving grandfather of Eric (Vickie) Kozlowski, Kristen (Chip) DuMound, Jessica and Andrea Prentkowski. Brother of the late Joan (the late Hank) Gie. Visitation for Leonard will be held on Sunday, December 23rd from 3:00-9:00pm, with a 7:30pm Rosary Service, at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road at Common (12 ½ Mile Road) in Warren. He will lie in state on Monday from 9:00 am until the time of the Funeral Mass at 9:30 am at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church, 31555 Hoover Road in Warren. Inurnment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan. Memorial donations are welcomed to the Parkinson's Foundation of Michigan, 30400 Telegraph Road, Suite 150, Bingham Farms, MI 48025, or the American Cancer Society, 20450 Civic Center Drive, Southfield, MI 48076.Please share memories of Leonard at his memory book.