We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Walter “Walt” J. Komarnicki, a devoted veteran, advocate, father, husband, and pillar of the Polish Legion of American Veterans.
Walt served as Past State Commander of the PLAV Department of Illinois and Commander of Franklin D. Roosevelt Post 4 in Chicago—one of the last remaining active posts in what was once a powerful statewide network.
The Polish Legion of American Veterans (PLAV) was founded in Chicago in 1920 and grew to more than 22 posts across Illinois, including 8 within the city of Chicago—many of which owned their own buildings and served as major community hubs. At one time, Chicago was home to the National Headquarters, State Headquarters, and Post 1, all housed in a historic three-story building located on the 1400 block of North Cleaver Street.
Chicago’s PLAV presence once included Ironside Post 16 on Damen near Division, Kennedy Post 41 off Wolfram by St. Hyacinth Church, Kosciuszko Post 30 in a large building in Roseland, Post 3 in the South Commercial District near the old steel mills, Post 72 on Augusta Boulevard near Ashland, Post 20 in the Back of the Yards area, Post 24 and Post 5 also on the South Side near Five Holy Martyrs Church, Post 18 at Ashland Avenue and 18th Street, and of course, Post 4—where Walter proudly served as Post Commander and member for more than 40 years. Post 4, originally located on Laramie just south of Diversey, later became the State Headquarters following the move from Cleaver Street.
While most of these posts have closed over time, Post 4 survived because of Walt. His leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to veterans ensured that our history, our mission, and our voice never faded. He was the heart of our post and a guardian of its legacy.
Walter J. Komarnicki, age 84, passed away peacefully on September 23, 2025. A U.S. Army veteran of the Vietnam Era, Walter dedicated his life not only to his family, but to serving fellow veterans across countless organizations including PLAV, American Legion, AMVETS, CVA, Catholic War Veterans, VFW, Knights of Columbus, Cook County VAC, and Hines VA Food Pantry.
He leaves behind his loving wife of 58 years, Christine, daughters Karen and Sherryl (David), and granddaughter Hailey. His selfless leadership and compassion will forever remain a guiding light in our organization and in the hearts of all who knew him.
Rest in peace, Commander Komarnicki.
Your service preserved our legacy. Your dedication strengthened our future. You will never be forgotten.
Forever in our hearts.
