Edward Szwed

Ed Szwed, age 73, passed away peacefully in his home from cancer on June 6, 2022. He was born on March 25, 1949 in Chicago, IL to the late Edward and Helen (Sever) Szwed. A memorial service honoring Ed will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at Parker Road Bible Church. 18512 South Parker Road, Mokena.

Ed married the love of his life, Cindy (Richards). Married 40 years, they were a true partnership. Always walking hand-in-hand, their love and appreciation for one another was evident. They completed each other. Ed and Cindy dreamed of raising a family surrounded by nature. They bought five acres of land and built their dream home in Mokena, IL. It was here they made a loving home where they raised their children and hosted countless family parties with volleyball and card games that often went well into the night.

Ed and Cindy had three children, Kera, Brian, and Rachelle. Ed and Kera enjoyed simple moments in each other's company and shared a love of capturing the world through pictures and video. Ed and Brian's connection as father and son was like no other. They were each other's best friend, enjoying golf, working on home projects, or simply watching a game together and enjoying one another's company. Ed and his youngest daughter, Rachelle, shared a love of nature and playing games, never missing an opportunity to play Rummy-O as they talked about life late into the night. Ed was a very hands-on dad and a true family man. No matter how far away his children lived, Ed always knew the weather in their area, and would call to remind them of what they needed if they left the house. He never stopped being a dad. He was always a protector.

While raising his family brought him immense joy, perhaps Ed's greatest happiness was his five grandchildren; Amaya, Tyler, Remy, Jack and Robert. He unconditionally adored and had a special connection with each of them. Defying his age with his abilities, Ed could be found crawling on the ground, wrestling, or sledding with them. He was the best grandpa any child could ask for.

Ed worked in sales, operating his own business for many years. He loved people and enjoyed his work. His retirement years were spent traveling in a RV with his wife Cindy, visiting his children and grandchildren. Ed and Cindy also bought a "little slice of heaven" on the water in Florida, where he enjoyed bike riding, golfing, kayaking, and playing pickleball. Ed had a love for nature and the outdoors. He enjoyed the simple pleasures nature offered, like a good storm rolling in. He often took scenic routes as he traveled to explore sights "off the beaten path." Ed's kind heart, patience, and gentle soul was clear to everyone he met. A natural optimist, his selflessness, upbeat attitude, and bright smile never swayed, even during his illness. Ed spent his final days in Florida with his wife and children, enjoying all of their love, laughter and energy. On his final day sitting outside looking out at the water, Ed stated he wouldn't be coming outside anymore, as he was "going to be with God in Heaven." Heaven received a one-of-a-kind angel.

Ed is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters, Helene and Theresa. Ed is survived by his wife Cindy, daughter Kera and husband Clay, son Brian and wife Tiffany, daughter Rachelle and husband Tom, his grandchildren, brother Michael and wife Jill, sister Marilyn and husband Howard, and cherished extended family and friends. His legacy will live on forever in those who loved him.