Theresa Kmieciak

Theresa Kmieciak obituary, Park Ridge, IL

Theresa Kmieciak

Theresa Kmieciak Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Ryan-Parke Funeral Home - Park Ridge on Feb. 22, 2026.
Theresa J. Kmieciak, née Koziol, 82, at rest February 20, 2026. Beloved wife of Michael. Loving mother of Cathi (Ken) Carpenter and Kristen (Michael) Cajiao. Doting grandmother of Kristofer Carpenter and Rylee Samelak. Beloved sister of the late Mary Ann Mescher (James) and Dorothy Struck (the late George). Aunt to Christine (Jamie) Clar, Ronald (Elizabeth) Mescher, Dinah Hammes, and Gretchen (John) Kohler.

Theresa a graduate of Josephium High School, class of 1961. Theresa spent her career as an administrative professional. Meeting Michael at Montgomery Wards corporate headquarters in 1962 and marrying in 1963. They were married for 62 years, creating a lifetime of memories together.

Theresa loved home improvement/remodeling projects and enjoyed several hobbies; ceramics and card making. She loved history and documentaries. But her greatest joy was being a grandmother to Kristofer and Rylee, and spoiling them was her favorite pastime. Whether it was a gift, new clothes, a trip to the movies, visiting the zoo or a new lego set she was always a "get down on the floor and play" grammy.

Theresa was a longtime resident of Park Ridge and she will be missed by family, friends and neighbors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to Boys Town, a favorite charity of both Michael and Theresa.

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, February 28, 2026 starting at 10:00 a.m. at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Theresa Kmieciak's Guest Book

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February 27, 2026

Dany O'Connor posted to the memorial.

February 25, 2026

Margaret Diggs posted to the memorial.

February 22, 2026

The Staff of Ryan-Parke Funeral Home posted to the memorial.

3 Entries

Dany O'Connor

February 27, 2026

Dear Mike, Kathy, Kristen and families,

It saddened me to hear of Theresa's passing. I am grateful to have had a chance to speak at length with her about a month ago. She seemed happy and engaged and it was good to spend some time with her albeit on the phone.
Kathy and Kristen, you and your families will truly miss your Mom and Grandmother but will be able to reminisce about all the happy times. Mike, I truly understand your loss. Hopefully, with time you will accept it....and cherish the many wonderful years you had together.

Margaret Diggs

February 25, 2026

Cathi, I am thinking of you and sending my condolences to you, Ken, Kristopher, your Dad, and all your family for the loss of your dear Mother. I continue to pray for your strong faith to get you through this most difficult time of grieving and healing.
Peace, love and hugs
Your friend, Margaret Diggs

The Staff of Ryan-Parke Funeral Home

February 22, 2026

Offering our deepest sympathies during this time.

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Ryan-Parke Funeral Home - Park Ridge

120 South Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, IL 60068

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Sign Theresa Kmieciak's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

February 27, 2026

Dany O'Connor posted to the memorial.

February 25, 2026

Margaret Diggs posted to the memorial.

February 22, 2026

The Staff of Ryan-Parke Funeral Home posted to the memorial.