Age 102 years. Life-long Joliet resident passed away October 24, 2022. Leona was born at home on Meeker Avenue close to midnight on February 13, 1920. She was baptized, confirmed, and a long-time member at Holy Trinity Slovak Lutheran Church where she was active in the Ladies Aid Society. She was a current member of Our Savior Lutheran Church. Leona was active in the Band Parents Association at Joliet Township High School and was an avid bowler in the senior league at Town & Country Bowling. Leona cherished her family and entertaining for the holidays. She was always a busy body, enjoying walks, reading, gardening, and cooking. She was proud of her Slovak traditions, which she passed down through the generations. In her later years, she loved doing word searches to keep her mind sharp and watching game shows. She was a resident of the Timbers of Shorewood for the past 11 years, where she still hosted many holidays and parties, including her 100th Birthday.

The family matriarch, Leona is survived by two sons, George Lee (Pat) Kristofer of Shorewood, Robert (Annette) Kristofer of Monee and daughter Diane (James) Haller of Joliet. Beloved grandmother of ten, including George Bryan Kristofer, Douglas (Roberta) Kristofer, and Jon (Lara) Kristofer, Kaylene (Brad) Shannon, Kristina (Dave) Neville, Marc Kristofer, and Kara Haller, Kristin Haller, Amy (fiancé Craig McNeil) Haller, and Rebecca Haller. Ten great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Ashley, and Timothy Kristofer, Enzo, Toni, Gianmichael, Charlie Kristofer, and Jaxon, Reilly, Samuel Shannon. Three great-great grandchildren Mary, Lily, and Ozzy Kristofer. Leona is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and godchildren. She loved her entire family and prayed for each one of them every night. Her legacy was her family.

Preceded in death by her husband of 64 years, George Kristofer (2004), her parents John and Mary (nee Mital) Bulno. Two brothers John and George Bulno.

Lying in state at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1910 Black Rd., Friday, October 28th from 10:00 A.M. until funeral services at 11:00 A.M. Rev. Loy Schlote officiating. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park II. Memorials to Our Savior Lutheran Church will be appreciated. Visitation will be held at the Carlson- Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory, 2320 Black Rd., Thursday, October 27th from 3:00 –6:00 P.M.