Kenneth J. Malkowski Sr passed away suddenly on August 16th, 2025 at the age of 70 years old. Born in Chicago, IL on April 7th, 1955.
Ken's journey began as the cherished son of his late parents Raymond (Retired CPD) Malkowski Sr, & Helen (nee Kowalski) Malkowski. Ken's early years were shared with 1 surviving brother Raymond "Ray" Malkowski Jr.
Ken was preceded in death by his brothers David "Buddy" Malkowski, and Jerome "Jerry" (Retired CPD) Malkowski.
Ken is survived by his devoted wife Susan "Reyna" (nee Cazares) Malkowski. Ken's legacy continues through his children Kenneth "Kenny" (CCSPD) Malkowski Jr, Toni (Joe) LaRocco, Nicole (Todd LT CPD) Ptaszkowski, Frank Malkowski, Stephanie Malkowski, Crystal Malkowski, Izabella Malkowski, & Alexandra Malkowski.
Step father to the late William "Billy" Allen Jr, the late Richard "Tony" Rubalvaca. Michael "Buddy" Moreno & Marissa Moreno.
Proud Grandpa to Natalie (Pete) Franz, Katlyn Rodriguez, Kenneth "Bubba" Malkowski III, Giana LaRocco, Chloe LaRocco, Tyler Malkowski, Evan Topel, Alanna LaRocco, Mason Malkowski, Julia Lopez, Lily Lopez, Alexzae DeLeon, Camila DeLeon, Diego Lopez, & Annaleia Marshall.
Proud great-grandpa to Jaxon Franz, Kamden Franz, Rodolfo "Rudy" Rodriguez, & Hudson Franz.
Ken was an alumni graduate of St. Laurence high school (GO VIKINGS) and Ken furthered his education at St Xavier University.
Ken's professional life was marked by his dedication to walking "the thin blue line"
Ken was a highly decorated & respected Police Officer when his career started as a Police Officer with Willow Springs PD which he served from 1978-1987 and furthering his career & passion with CPD which he had the honor of serving for 31 years, from 1987-2018 when he retired (not by his choice)
Over the course of 40 years being the Police, Ken was awarded many ribbons & certificates for his dedication and the oath he took when he was being sworn in as a Police officer.
Ken was a Deputy Grand Knight Police Council at 4th degree Knights of Columbus
Ken was a program coordinator of PEER Support
Ken was a proud member of Polish American Police Association (PAPA)
Ken was an Executive board member at Peace officers memorial foundation of Cook County and chairman of Chicago Police Survivors at Chicago Police memorial foundation.
Ken loved all things sports and was a diehard fan of the Miami Dolphins. He liked "Da Bears" too. Ken was also a diehard fan of the Chicago White Sox and you wouldn't dare catch him in anything with the Cubs logo on it.
Besides Ken's true love of being a Police Officer, Ken was a simple man who enjoyed his Dunkin, Starbucks, Miller Lite, Pizza, Sweets, reading, and of course time spent with his children, Grandchildren, family & friends.
Ken really did live his life everyday to the fullest and he will be missed immensely by those who knew & loved him.
Family and friends will gather for a memorial visitation on Friday, September 5, 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Hwy. Palos Hills, IL 60465
Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home
Visits: 420
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors