Milena M. Leonardy

Milena Maria Leonardy, 23, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 27, 2026 in Joliet, Illinois.

Born to love and to look after others, Milena spent her days caring for her patients at the hospital with patience that came naturally to her. At home she was the same: a devoted big sister to Danielle and Emilia, who were not only her siblings but her best friends. She cared for them the way she cared for everyone – quietly, steadily, and with her whole heart.

Faith and community were a large part of her life. She was deeply involved at the Slovenian Catholic Center (the Dom) in Lemont where she found belonging, tradition, and joy. She loved dancing with Slovenska Mladinska Skupina Marela, and those who watched her knew that was one of the places her spirit showed most clearly.

Those who knew Milena will remember how she lit up a room. She brought warmth with her. What she often could not see, and what everyone around her saw so clearly, was how loving and beautiful she was.

Left to cherish the memories of Milena are her loving parents, David and Pamela (nee Lodewyck) Leonardy; beloved sisters, Danielle and Emilia; loving grandmother Pamela Black; and staramama, Neza (nee Markun) Lodewyck – one of her best friends in the world; boyfriend and love of her life, Jacob Doll; and all who were lucky enough to be loved by her.

Those gone before marked with the sign of faith are Milena’s grandfather, William G Lodewyck; great-grandparents, Florian and Maria Markun; and step-grandfather, Gary Black.

The family asks that you remember Milena by being kind to someone who struggles to see how much light they carry.

If you are comfortable, please consider wearing something pink or a pink accessory, Milena’s favorite color. Your presence and support mean the world to us.

Family and friends of Milena are invited to celebrate her life on Friday, October 9, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for a visitation at Tezak Funeral Home (1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, IL). The rosary will be prayed together at 6:00 p.m. 

The family wishes for you to gather for a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, October 10, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Slovenian Catholic Mission (14246 Main St, Lemont, IL) celebrated by Fr. Metod Ogorevc. Following the Mass of Christian Burial, we will drive in procession to St. Joseph Cemetery (1500 N Raynor Ave, Joliet, IL) for committal services. 

There will be no gathering at the funeral home on Saturday, October 10. Please begin to gather at St. Mary's Slovenian Catholic Mission at 10:30 a.m.

Funeral services entrusted to friend and funeral director, Marko Cepon, 815-715-1389.

Celebrating life, one beautiful memory at a time.