Leonard F. Strazewski

OBITUARY

Leonard F. Strazewski, age 71, of Chicago, journalist, comic-book writer, professor, poet, bon vivant, profoundly funny man and loyal friend to storytellers and truthtellers everywhere. Born and raised on the South Side to Leonard D. and Irene, née Kuras, Strazewski, who predeceased him, Len was educated at St. Rita of Cascia High School (Class of ’72; inducted into its hall of fame, 1999). He earned a bachelor’s in journalism at Northwestern University (1975) and master’s degrees in English and creative writing, and in labor relations, respectively, at University of Illinois Chicago (1980) and Loyola University Chicago (1985). A longtime Rogers Park resident, Len had a productive and lengthy journalistic career, writing for Crain’s Business Insurance, Ad Age, Rough Notes, the American Medical Association and other outlets. He holds a special place in the hearts of ’80s and ’90s comic-book fans for co-creating Prime, Prototype and Jesse Quick, as well as writing for The Flash, Justice Society of America, The Fly, Trollords, Speed Racer and many others. His contributions earned him special thanks in the end credits of the 2025 “Superman” movie. In 1996, Len joined Columbia College Chicago as associate professor of journalism, helping to guide a generation of budding journalists, and was granted emeritus status in 2022, after serving as interim chair of the journalism department, interim associate provost and faculty representative to the board of trustees. A lover of good food, fine wines, strong women and the Chicago White Sox, Len is survived by legions of friends, colleagues, collaborators and conspirators. A service is planned for Summer, 2026. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Rita of Cascia High School, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60620 (stritahs.com/donate). Funeral info: 847.673.6111 or habenfuneral.com to view service details and to leave a condolence message.