Dennis Bednarz

Dennis Bednarz, 81, passed away on January 22, 2026, in Chesterfield, Missouri. Born on September 11, 1944, in Chicago, Illinois, Dennis lived a life marked by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his family and work.

Dennis graduated from high school and often said that the rest of his education came from the "school of hard knocks." He began his working life as a gas station attendant, where he met his future wife Barb, as he gassed up her car. Smitten, he asked her out and she said yes. Shortly after their marriage Dennis became a lineman with the telephone company. During a strike at the telephone company, Dennis took a custodial position at Siganode to support his family. That temporary role turned into a lifelong career. Siganode transitioned to Illinois Tool Works and Dennis steadily advanced-moving from custodian to assembly line worker, to machinist, and ultimately supervised a team of machinists in the research and development department. His journey through the ranks was a testament to his work ethic and determination.

Dennis shared 58 wonderful years of marriage with his partner, best friend and devoted wife, Barbara "Barb" (née Wilson). Together they built a loving family that was always the focus of Denny's life. He is survived by son Michael (Sarah); daughter Denise; grandchildren Aiden, Lily, Gunnar, Caroline, and Keira; brother Greg (Janice) Bednarz; sister-in-law Jan (Rich), nephews, Mark, Keith, Eli and niece Maggie. He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Elizabeth "Betty" Bednarz (née Sweica); father-in-law John Wilson; mother-in-law Joan Wilson (née Stenhouse); son John Joseph Bednarz; and daughter Dawn Marie Bednarz.

Dennis had a deep passion for cars, fishing, and football, interests that remained constant throughout his life. Whether under the hood of a car or cheering on his favorite team (Da Bears), he found joy in these pursuits. He also cherished family gatherings, traveling and going "up north" with friends.

A practicing Catholic throughout his life, Dennis found strength in his faith and community. He was known for being hard-working, loyal, kind-hearted-with a large dose of stubbornness those who knew him came to admire. Nicknamed "Hot-to Trot" by his wife and family, Dennis was always ready to lend a helping hand to others and have a good time. His devotion to family was evident in everything he did.

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026 at St Zachary's Parish, 567 Algonquin Rd, DesPlaines, Illinois. Visitation starts at 12:00 pm with Mass starting at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the American Heart Association, https://www.heart.org/en/?form=FUNELYZXFBW, or Catholic Charities, https://www.catholiccharities.net/give/donate-form/.

May Dennis's memory bring comfort to those who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived through perseverance, love, and quiet strength.

Funeral care provided by G.L. Hills Funeral Home. For information, please call 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com.