Kenneth Joseph Szwed, age 84, and a resident of Des Plaines for 57 years, passed away on February 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born January 4, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, to Joseph E. and Stephanie (nee Gonka) Szwed.

Kenneth "Ken" Szwed lived his life with loyalty, laughter, faith, and an unwavering devotion to family. Married to his beloved wife Donna (née Siemieniec) for over 61 wonderful years, Kenny built a life rooted in love, tradition, and showing up — always early, and many times staying until the very end.

A  graduate of St. James Catholic Grade School and St. Pat's High School, Ken went on to attend Northeastern Illinois University and began his career as an accountant. In retirement, he found one of his greatest joys as a school bus driver. Ken was known throughout the community — a true people person who always wanted to learn your story and never let you leave still a stranger.

Ken was a lifelong and devoted fan of the Chicago Bears, holding season tickets for over 50 years and rarely missing a game. He loved sports of all kinds and could talk knowledgeably about everything from politics to the latest sports statistics. He was a proud president and board member of Northwest Little League and a perennial spectator at his grandchildren's sporting events.

Lake Lawn Resort in Wisconsin was Ken's happy place. For five decades, it was the backdrop to cherished family memories, along with spring breaks in Siesta Key, Florida — where days were spent stretched out on the beach and evenings included cocktails at the Crescent Club. He loved to travel and managed to visit nearly all of the lower 48 states, driving 100 miles out of the way just to see a stadium. As a boy, he would watch airplanes fly overhead, dreaming of travel; his first flight was a touring trip around Chicago. Later in life, he delighted in tracking his family's flights on airline apps, making sure everyone landed safely.

Faith was central to Ken's life. A devout Catholic, he served as an altar boy at St. James Church — famously once setting his altar robes on fire, a story that never failed to bring laughter. He enjoyed his parish activities, including Men's Night at St. Emily's, and carried his faith with quiet strength throughout his life.

Ken maintained friendships with the "Old Gang" neighborhood crew for nearly 80 years — a testament to his loyalty and steady presence. He enjoyed bowling, stock club meetings, intense games of Acquire with his brothers-in-law, and tackling crossword puzzles from the Chicago Tribune and New York Times. He could often be found watching the History Channel, absorbing knowledge with his trademark curiosity.

He was affectionately known as "Uncle Martini," a nod to his appreciation for a good stinger, 7 and 7, or gin on the rocks. A man of particular culinary opinions, Ken wouldn't eat anything that swam or flew; Thanksgiving was never complete without his beloved kielbasa and kapusta on the table.

Ken took pride in his immaculate tool bench and showed his grandsons how to be handy.  He taught his grandchildren to ride bikes, wore college gear from each of their schools with enormous pride, and was endlessly supportive of all their pursuits. He was happiest when the house was full — first to arrive at any gathering and the last to leave, soaking in every moment.

Ken was the devoted father of Peter (Julibeth Corwin), Karen, and Paul. He was the proud grandfather of David, Ian, and Evan Shacklette; Delaney and Sydney Szwed; and Liam and Maeve Szwed. He was the loving brother of the recently deceased Tom Szwed and Diane Szymul (née Szwed).Above all, Ken adored his family. He showed his love by showing up — to games, to gatherings, to conversations, to life. His legacy lives on in the traditions he built, the lessons he taught, and the laughter he leaves behind.

He will be deeply missed and forever celebrated.

A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 9:30 am until the time of Mass at 10:30 am at St. Emily Church, 1400 E. Central Rd., Mount Prospect. Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home and Cremation Center. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com .