Jeffrey Kwiatkowski

Taken from his loved ones too soon, Jeffrey Kwiatkowski lived a life filled with so many of the things he loved. He was social and outgoing, which meant that he was the first to arrive for gatherings and the last to leave as well. Jeffrey was hopeful and dependable with ending love for and devotion to his family. He lived an active lifestyle and was a gifted singer whose passion was music. Jeffrey was determined to accomplish the things he set his mind to, and in many ways he was a big kid at heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love him.

The vibrant days of the 1950s were a very exciting time in America. Elvis Presley took the music world by storm with his rock ‘n roll music while James Dean dominated the silver screen. Televisions were becoming part of our homes, and with our introduction to shows like I Love Lucy the way we saw ourselves was forever changed. There was much to celebrate during this time, too, as it was as the decade was drawing to a close that we added both Alaska and Hawaii as our 49th and 50th states. Amidst this colorful time there was much to be thankful for in the lives of a young couple from Detroit, Michigan, as they were blessed to welcome a healthy baby boy into their hearts and home on March 27, 1956. Jeffrey J. was one of six children born to his parents, Bernard and Gertrude Kwiatkowski, and he was raised in the family home in Detroit alongside his siblings, Michael, Mark, Charles, Judie, and Cindy.

In many ways Jeffrey experienced a childhood that was reflective of the times. His father was as an assembly line worker in the automotive industry while his mother had more than enough to keep her busy at home. Jeffrey was active right from the start as he loved doing things like playing baseball, biking, ice skating and playing hockey, and playing around at the neighborhood park. By the time he was a teen he had uncovered his passion for music. It was with this in mind that he formed a rock band with a few of his friends. Jeff loved sharing his passion with others, and he was a fantastic singer.

As he became an adult Jeffrey continued to live life to the fullest. Many of the things he enjoyed were better when shared with others. Although he didn’t have a family of his own, Jeff treasured his nieces and nephews as though they were his children. It was easy to see that he adored them as he was continually interacting with them on their level and generous when it came to them as well. He looked forward to holiday gatherings and was the one who was there the longest, too. Jeff was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing as well as camping with his buddies. As his friends and family can attest, he was a Detroit Lions fan through thick and thin. In fact, he was positive that they would be victorious over the Packers this past Thanksgiving Day. Jeff also enjoyed discussing politics and world events with anyone who was willing. He had an extensive coin collection and also collected a wide assortment of commemorative items.

All who knew Jeffrey would agree that he was truly one of a kind. He had an adventurous spirit and wasn’t afraid to try new things. On one such occasion Jeff was trying to water ski, which was something he had always wanted to do. Although he gave it his best effort, he was not able to get up on the skis no matter what he tried. Jeff didn’t skip a beat blaming the boat, the driver, or the water that was too wet!

Although his journey ended much too soon, Jeffrey J. Kwiatkowski made a significant impact in the lives of those around him. He was vibrant and talkative with a certain wit about him that made him so much fun to be with. Jeff didn’t shy away from a challenge, and he did his best to achieve whatever he set about doing. The memories he leaves behind will be forever cherished.

Jeffrey J. Kwiatkowski died on December 25, 2013. Jeff’s family includes his siblings, Michael, Mark, Charles, Judith, and Cindy; nieces and nephews, and several great nieces and great nephews. Jeff was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard and Gertrude. Visit with Jeff’s family and friends on Sunday from 12-5 p.m. at Turowski Life Story Funeral Home, 45100 Warren Road in Canton with a 5 p.m. funeral service at the funeral home. You are welcome to sing the guestbook at www.TurowskiLifeStory.com prior to arriving at the funeral home.