William Woznicki Obituary

William Stanley "Bill" Woznicki
Born: October 3, 1936 in Chicago, IL
Died: May 10, 2024 in Jefferson City, MO
William Stanley "Bill" Woznicki, aged 87, of Jefferson City, MO., passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024, at home surrounded by his loving family.
Bill was born on October 3, 1936, in Chicago, IL., the son of Stanley William and Marion (Lewandoski) Woznicki.
He graduated from Harrison Technical High School in 1955, where he developed his passion for printing, and music as he was a member of the ROTC band, playing the clarinet and saxophone.
During a job after school, he met the love of his life, Virginia D. Malak. They were married on March 3, 1957, in Chicago and celebrated 67 years of marriage together.
While living in the Chicago area, Bill was a devoted member of Rotary, the CB Club, where he gained the call sign "Counterfeiter". He was also a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Riverside, Illinois.
In 1957, Bill and Virginia founded Little Village Printing which eventually ended up in Berwyn, Illinois, and successfully ran the business for over 60 years until Bill's retirement in 2018. Despite facing challenges such as a devastating fire in 1987 that destroyed their first shop and equipment, they persevered, rebuilding and keeping the business thriving. Throughout their journey, they kept the shop alive through the highs and lows, often listening to Cubs Games on AM radio while working. Bill's dedication to his business endured, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and commitment upon his retirement.
Bill's creativity knew no limits. He transformed his attic and pool table to building expansive model train sets that traversed multiple rooms, showcasing his meticulous attention to detail. Drawing was another passion he cherished, reflecting his artistic talents. However, music was his true love, with jazz being a constant source of inspiration. For years, he played bass in the Little Dickens Band, entertaining a vast array of audiences across Chicago's vibrant music scene.
Bill always enjoyed quality family time and loved family gatherings, especially time around Christmas. Family trips to Disney World and Las Vegas and cheering for the beloved Chiago Bears and Cubs teams created lasting memories. He looked forward to the "Cousin's Reunions" with extended family around the Chicago area. His loved ones will fondly recall his sharp sense of humor, commanding presence, and unwavering work ethic.
Survivors include: his beloved wife, Virginia; four children, Barbara Werner (Jerry) of Brookfield, IL., Laura Gardner (Don) Tampa, FL., Tommy Woznicki (Tammy Peters) of Prairie du Chien, WI. and Linda Otten (Mark) of Jefferson City, MO.; sister, Arlene Bruna (Dennis) of Hilliard, Ohio; brother, Stanley "Skip" Woznicki (Denise) of Tuscan, AZ.; and eight grandchildren, Neal Gardner, Nicole Noffke (Dan), Linda Poole (Michael), Jason Gardner, Amber Binder, Anastasiya Otten, Will Otten, and Abbey Otten. He was also survived by Julie Johnson and several nieces and one nephew.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Marion Woznicki, and daughter-in-law, Charlene Woznicki.
Visitation will be held at Freeman Mortuary from 5:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Thursday, May 16, 2024. A prayer service will be conducted at 6:00 p.m. Thursday in the Freeman Chapel with the Reverend Monsignor Robert A. Kurwicki V.G. officiating.
A webcast of Bill's service will begin at 6:00 p.m. Thursday for friends who are not able to attend by going to his memorial page on Freeman Mortuary's website.
A private graveside service and inurnment will be held at Resurrection Cemetery in Justice, IL. at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to St. Peter Catholic Church to be used for Masses.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary.
www.freemanmortuary.com