Edwin Kocinski

Edwin J. Kocinski, 89, of Scottsdale, and formerly of Chicago, entered into eternal life January 6, 2014. A hard-working man of great strength, he is survived by Billie J. Chrestman, with whom he shared a decades-long love and whose tireless care and dedication sustained him in his last years. Born May 16, 1924, the son of Jozef and brother to Henry, Edwin was a devoted son to his beloved mother Anna (Zochowska), and a dedicated father to his children (with Madeline R. Kocinski, nee Motzny) E. Joseph Jr. (Barb), Joyce (Bob Istok), Joan (Richard) Baltz, John (Patty), Janice (Michael) Murphy and Jacqueline. He instilled in them; his grandchildren – E. Joseph (Catia), Jeffery, Kyle, Sarah (Mark), Benjamin, Katherine (Alex), Emily, Jennifer, John Jr., Jessica, Jason; and six great-grandchildren the value of hard work, education, and religious faith. Edwin served as a medic with the U.S. Army’s 254th Infantry Regiment, 63rd Infantry Division, during World War II, and in 1945 was awarded the Silver Star for gallantry in action on the mine fields of France. He’d also be awarded a Bronze Star and, for wounds sustained when shot by a German sniper, the Purple Heart. His bravery was further demonstrated during his nearly 33 years with the Chicago Police Department, where he would serve as a detective early in his career and retire in 1979 as a sergeant in the 13th District. Those who knew and loved “Eddie” will remember the twinkle in his eye and the cigar in his mouth. A funeral mass was held at St. Theresa Catholic Church in Phoenix. Visitation will take place Saturday January 11th from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge. Interment will follow at St. Adalbert Cemetery in Niles at the graveside. For info www.cumberlandchapels.com or 708-456-8300