Richard J. Kocielko

Richard J. Kocielko, 70, of Elkhart, died June 16, 2011 at his home. He was born February 28, 1941 in Joliet, Ill.to Joseph and Bertha Kocielko and married Luella Dawson on Nov. 8, 1974.. She survives with 2 daughters, Joleen (Richard) Cox and Lynette Finn of Elkhart; 4 sons, Richard (Tiffany) Kocielko of Mishawaka, Paul Kocielko of Michigan City, Richard Robert Kocielko of Logansport, and Robert Kocielko of Florida and 2 other daughters; 17 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters, Judy Jackson, Sheila Mortera of Elkhart and Beverly Mussario of Joliet, Ill. and 1 brother, Joseph (Debbie) Kocielko of Joliet, Ill. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 daughters, Ruth Field and Kelly Kocielko and sisters, Marilyn Eartly and Patricia Seeley.

Mr. Kocielko was a self-employed painter. He moved with his family to Elkhart in 1974 and owned the L&R Painting Co. with partner, Les Baker. He then owned Rich & Sons Quality Decorating. He was a member of the Painter’s Union of Will County. As a child, he liked to play baseball and basketball and was an excellent roller skater. He enjoyed going to casinos, hunting, fishing and camping and was an avid NASCAR fan. He enjoyed playing with his grandchildren. His home was an open door to all of those in need.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, June 25, 2011 at 2 PM at Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home at Cobblestone Crossing, Elkhart. Pastor Dwight Gosser will officiate. Cremation has taken place.

Memorials may be given to the family. Visit www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com to sign an online guestbook.