Peter H Gonski

Peter H. Gonski, 73, of Kankakee, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, March 8, 2024, at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. Peter was born on July 14, 1950, to Frank and Rita (Kempen) Gonski. Peter was extremely proud of his Polish and French heritage, as evident by his flying the Polish flag and his pleasure of having been born on Bastille Day. He was a devoted supporter of his sons, in all of their sports, musical and artistic endeavors, never missing a game, art show, or performance. He studied Art at SIU Carbondale, graduated high school from Westview, where he designed the Kayhawk mascot. He enjoyed attending his high school reunions. As a union carpenter he headed his own construction company, Tergon, and worked at Shapiro Development Center from 1987 until his retirement. He was a lifelong member of the Kankakee Valley Boad Club, where he served as an officer. Peter belonged to the Moose Lodge, the Knights of Columbus, and was a volunteer at Bishop McNamara for over 20 years. A talented chef, he prepared the food for the Mother and Son Mass and brunches every year. He also was in charge of set construction for many BMHS productions. Peter enjoyed Florida vacations, never tiring of watching the Kankakee River roll by, watching and feeding the wildlife in his backyard while listening to his favorite rock and roll music. "Just take those old records off the shelf, " he'll sit and listen to them by himself. Peter is survived by his two sons, Frank Gonski of Kankakee, Peter of McHenry; beloved grandson, two sisters, Nancy Godin of Kankakee, Cindy (Tim) Lawrence, Orland Park; cousins, Connie Graves of Carmel CA, Marilyn Vanden, Bourbonnais; many nieces and nephews; first wife Cathy Collins; second wife, Rebecca Gonski. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Patrick Gonski; sister-in-law, Sandy Gonski; brother-in-law, William Godin. Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of life will be held at the Kankakee Valley Boat Club on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 2pm to 5pm. Jensen Funeral Home in Kankakee is handling the arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to his favorite charity, St. Jude's Children Hospital.