Andrew “Andy” Komorski, 64, of Elgin, was taken on Tuesday, June 12, 2018 surrounded by his loving wife and family - such a profound loss.
His life started on July 1, 1953. He was born in Fort Leonardwood, Missouri, the first child of Roma and Donald Komorski. He was the oldest of four siblings and was not only a big brother, but protector, confidant, champion, special friend and the favorite.
Andy was always there when you needed anything. The first words out of his mouth would be “What do you need?” He was someone who picked you up when you faltered and defended you when no one else would. There wasn’t a judgmental bone in his body or anyone he couldn’t engender trust or foster a lifetime friendship with.
Andy worked for Schaumburg Toyota for 37 years and was a consummate professional. He always put his employees’ needs before his own. He worked hard and never asked anyone to do something he wouldn’t do himself. He empowered his staff, he led by example and he took pride in his work. He truly loved his employees and coworkers like family. Andy was respected throughout the nation and was well-known for voicing his opinion at round table events with Toyota.
God knows he loved having a good time! He loved music, especially the big jazz band sound. He was a professional saxophone player performing with the Jazz Consortium Big Band since high school. He enjoyed sports cars, racing, watching a Cub’s game with Uncle Brian, burning meat while talking endlessly about life when he wasn’t stuffing his face with a Wisconsin smut-burger. His favorite hobby was taking off on cross country motorcycle trips with his best buddy Donny, traveling all over the world with the love of his life, Elaine and we must not forget the occasional shot of Jägermeister…NO!
While he adored his sisters, he was also the target for pranks. On one of his many visits to Wisconsin to visit with his sister Leona, he was the subject of her twisted sense of humor. One evening, she waited patiently until he fell asleep next to the family dog, Vinnie, then gently smeared peanut butter in his ear and directed the dog to lick his ear. He talked about that for years!
Andy is remembered as a fierce protector of his children and grandchildren and a man who displayed unwavering Integrity, loyalty, kindness and compassion to all. We will miss his sense of humor and imitations of Johnny Carson, Forrest Gump, the Cowardly Lion from Wizard of Oz and his hysterical play-off of Robin Hood verses Sir Guy of Gisbourne saying, “Sir Guy, when this is over, there’ll be no need for me to come again…”, then his enactment of the sword fight will stay alive with us always. His role as Food Boy, Garbage Boy and enemy of Frazier the cat who wanted nothing more than a bite out of Andy’s leg. His singing of several songs of the Wizard of Oz, especially over the CB radio while riding cross country with Donny.
A void was left in the atmosphere and in our hearts. Our knight lives within all of us now because of the wisdom and humor he imparted upon us. God bless our Andy.
Andy, beloved husband of 20 years to Elaine (nee Perez), loving dad of Adam (Leah Haddix), Heather (Brian) Czarnik and Lisa (Gilbert Jr) Bravo; cherished grandfather of April, Payton, Dacian and Izzara; dear son of Donald (Anita) and late Roma (nee Rizzo); caring brother of Leona (Brian) Marheine, Claudia (David) Van Delinder and the late Gregory; best friend and traveling buddy for over 34 years of Donny (Candice) O’Connor; his family at Schaumburg Toyota and numerous nieces, nephews and many friends whose lives were touched along the way.
Memorial Mass 10:30 am Saturday, July 14, 2018 at St. Thomas More Church, 215 Thomas More, Dr, Elgin. Cremation was private at the Countryside Funeral Home and Crematory, Bartlett. In lieu of flowers, donations to Hungry For Music, www.hungryformusic.org, whose goal is to put musical instruments in the hands of children in need would be appreciated. Info 630-289-7575