Leo J Hojczyk's Obituary
Leo J. Hojczyk of Fort Myers, Florida, formerly of Peoria, Illinois, passed away in Orlando on Tuesday, October 11, 2022, at the age of 83. He was life-flighted to Orlando following the closure of his hospital in Fort Myers in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
Leo was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 3, 1939 to Albert and Veronica (Karas) Hojczyk. He married the love of his life, Sally (Spencer) Hojczyk, in Peoria on May 16, 1964 and spent 58 happy years building their family together. She survives. Also surviving are his children, Cindy Hojczyk and Julie Hojczyk (John) Balkema, granddaughters, Lauren, Lindsey and Lexie Balkema, sister Jan Hojczyk (Earl) Manthey and many nieces and nephews.
Leo achieved his dream of attending Marquette University through a lot of hard work and an Evans Scholarship, a golf scholarship for high-achieving caddies. After graduating with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, he went to work at Caterpillar in sales, enjoying placements in Peoria, Canada and Switzerland. He later worked as a Division Manager for Heavy Industries and Corporate Accounts. After 36 years, he retired and spent his time checking off items on their bucket list.
Leo was best known for his love of family, commitment to friends, and dedication to hard work. He was quick to smile and happy to help wherever needed. He lived his life by being someone that others could always count on. Most importantly, he was the ultimate husband, father, father-in-law, and grandfather.
As a lifelong Catholic, he attended Catholic grade school, middle school, high school and college. He lived his faith as a member of St. Vincent de Paul Church in Peoria and St. Cecelia’s Church in Fort Myers.
Per his wishes, details on a future service and Celebration of Life will follow. For those wishing to remember Leo, donations may be made to Evans Scholars and The Peoria PlayHouse. Leo has filled the hearts of many and will be sadly missed.
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