https://www.mckenziefuneral.com/

McKenzie Funeral Home, 15618 S. Cicero Avenue, Oak Forest, IL (2026)

01/17/2026

Michael J. Ward, age 78, was called home to his Savior on January 14, 2026, at Hines VA Hospital in Maywood, Illinois. Born on December 19, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, Mike proudly and valiantly served his country during the Vietnam War from 1969 to 1971 as a Specialist Fourth Class (SP4). For his bravery and service, he received several honors, including the Purple Heart. Mike is survived by his honorary children, Robert (Phyllis) Zwiers, Cathrine (Dennis) Pechtold and William (Kimberly) Zwiers. He was a devoted honorary grandfather to Nicole Zwiers (Jon Smith), Zack (Lisa) Zwiers, Jackie Infantino, Jessica Pechtold (Zak Lemmons), Jacob (Nicole) Pechtold, Lillian Zwiers, Colton Zwiers, and Chloe Zwiers, and a loving honorary great-grandfather to Xander, Re*****on, and Kade Zwiers; River Lemmons; and Jade Pechtold.Mike is now reunited in Heaven with his beloved longtime partner, Irma Zwiers; his parents, James C. Ward and Rose (Graf) Ward; and his brother, James P. Ward. As a proud veteran of the United States Army, Michael will be laid to rest with full military honors.

Visitation Tuesday 1/20/26 at McKenzie Funeral Home 15618 S Cicero Ave. Oak Forest, IL 8:30 – 10:15 AM. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Damian Church in Oak Forest at 10:30 AM.

01/17/2026

Barbara Graziano, born on July 27, 1951, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. Known for her generous spirit, intelligence, and ability to accept others wholeheartedly, Barbara touched the lives of everyone she met.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Barbara took immense pride in her grandchildren, Dominic and Mikayla, who were her pride and joy. She cherished her family and was known for the warmth and love she offered to all her loved ones.

Barbara is survived by her daughter, Vickie; son, Rich; mother, Betty; brother, Glenn, (Betsy), and nephew, Sam. She will also be remembered fondly by her grandchildren, whose laughter and happiness brought her great joy throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her ex-husband Anthony and her father Victor.

In her leisure time, Barbara enjoyed engaging in games such as Candy Crush, bingo, and pinochle, finding pleasure in both competition and companionship. Her enthusiasm for life was evident in every interaction, and her memory will forever resonate with those fortunate enough to know her.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for January 19, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at McKenzie Funeral Home, located at 15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452. Barbara Graziano will be missed but never forgotten, as her spirit lives on through her cherished family and friends.

01/12/2026

Arthur C. Enk, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 11, 2026, at the age of 90. Born on August 31, 1935, in Chicago, he lived a life marked by his kindness, quiet nature, and the warmth he shared with everyone he met.

Arthur dedicated over 20 years of his career as a salesman for Spencer Turbine, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to his work and the many relationships he built in the professional world. He also served his country honorably in the Army, embodying the values of dedication and service that he carried throughout his life.

Known for his outgoing and friendly demeanor, Arthur had the uncanny ability to strike up a conversation with anyone, making every interaction feel special. Whether it was sharing a laugh or a thoughtful story, he touched the hearts of all who knew him.

His passions outside of work included his love for the Boy Scouts, where he proudly achieved the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout. Fishing, woodworking, and baseball—especially his cherished Chicago Cubs—were among his favorite pastimes. These interests brought him joy and formed lasting memories with family and friends.

Arthur is survived by his loving wife, Catherine, and his adoring children: Carol Bryar and her husband Rich, Linda Greenwood and her husband Doug, Arthur and his wife Hilda, Debra Walter and her husband Pat, and Patti Mathison and her husband Michael. He was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren and a dedicated great-grandfather to three little ones who adored him. His warmth and love will be eternally felt in their hearts.

He is preceded in death by his grandson Ryan Bryar and his brother Alan Enk, both of whom he missed dearly.

A Celebration of Life will be held in his honor on January 17, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the McKenzie Funeral Home, located in Oak Forest, Illinois. This gathering promises to be a heartfelt tribute to Arthur's remarkable life, love, and the lasting impact he has made on all who knew him.

Arthur C. Enk will be remembered not only for his accomplishments but more so for the love, laughter, and kindness he brought into the lives of those fortunate enough to call him family and friend. He has left behind a legacy of compassion that will live on in the hearts of many.

12/15/2025

Daniel John Philipps, 61, of Oak Forest, Illinois, passed away on December 9, 2025 after a long illness.

Daniel was the beloved son of the late Bernard C. and the late Jane G. Philipps of Oak Forest, Illinois and the cherished younger brother of Mary E. Philipps of Oak Forest, Illinois, David J. Philipps of Orland Park, Illinois, and Dennis C. Philipps (Susan) of Jacksonville, Florida. Dan is also survived by many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Daniel was a graduate of Oak Forest High School and the Echols International Travel School. Dan worked in the travel industry for many years, as a reservation agent and then flight attendant for TWA, and later as a flight attendant for regional airlines. Daniel also worked as a bookkeeper for the family law firm, Philipps & Philipps, Ltd.

Daniel loved to travel, especially going on cruises (to Alaska, Canada/New England, Mexico, the Panama Canal, South America, the UK, the Mediterranean Sea, Norway, the Caribbean islands, and the Baltic Sea), and visiting Disney World with his sister. He was an avid fan of Drum Corps. Daniel also loved to garden, and frequently won city beautification awards for his home. Daniel was also an excellent cook; he loved to plan and prepare holiday meals and try out new recipes. The world is a little less bright without Daniel in it.
He will be missed.

Visitation at McKenzie Funeral Home (15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452) 8:30am-9:30am
Then funeral mass at St. Damian Church 10:00am (5250 155th St, Oak Forest, IL 60452)

12/04/2025

Please come to McKenzie Funeral Home this season and donate to our Petsmart box for local charities. Bring in any unopen bags of pet food or any ununsed toys, leashes, collars, etc.... With this cold weather anything is appreciated that can help a homeless pet out.

11/18/2025

Thomas J. McCarthy late of Oak Forest, beloved husband of the late Beverly Ann Fisher, devoted father of Michael (Dawn) McCarthy, Kathleen (Mike) Boothe, Kimberlee and Kelly McCarthy. Cheerished Grandfather of Thomas "TJ", (Janelle) McCarthy. Dear brother of Daniel McCarthy and the late Emmett, John, Clifford, Dorothy Goudie, Peggy Puscizna, Ruth Slemp and Kathleen Trybula fond Uncle of many nieces and nephews. visitation Thursday November 20th at McKenzie Funeral Home 15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest 3-8pm. Chapel service 7pm, internment private. In lieu of flowers donations appreciated to the Alzheimers Foundation or to the Abraham lincoln National Cemetery.

11/07/2025

Richard Nemecek, a lifelong resident of Chicago and a cherished member of his family, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on May 20, 1939, Richard dedicated over 40 years of his life to the printing industry, serving proudly at Lasalle Street Press, which later became Bowne of Chicago. His work not only provided for his family but also exemplified his commitment to his craft and community.

Richard was known for his kind and patient demeanor. He was a man without a mean bone in his body, characterized by his caring nature and unwavering honesty. A person of great trustworthiness and generosity, Richard was a pillar of strength for those who knew him. In his youth, he served as an altar boy at Holy Name Cathedral in Chicago, reflecting the values of service and dedication that defined his life.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Richard found joy in simple pleasures. He was an avid fisherman, cherishing the tranquil moments spent by the water. His love for animals was evident in his passion for raising and showing Doberman Pinschers, a testament to his adoration for these loyal companions.

Richard's legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his daughters Christine Berardi (and son-in-law Donato Berardi) and Laura McNulty (and son-in-law Joseph McNulty). He was a proud grandfather to Daniel and Amanda Berardi, Christopher and Andrew Berardi, Stephanie and Walter Spooner, Molly and Seth Cope, Joseph and Macy McNulty, and a devoted great-grandfather to Ava, Mila, Scarlett, Ellie, and Wyatt Spooner. His son, Richard B. Nemecek (and daughter-in-law Shay Nemecek), carries on his name, alongside his grandchildren Kaylee, and Emily Nemecek.

Richard joins his beloved wife Betty Nemecek, who preceded him in death, as well as his son Andrew Carl Nemecek and parents Ben and Helen Nemecek. Their memories will be cherished by all who had the honor of knowing him.

Visitation services will be held on November 12, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at McKenzie Funeral Home located at 15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate the life of this remarkable man. Richard Nemecek will be dearly missed and fondly remembered for his kindness and the love he shared with his family and friends.

10/30/2025

John Gonzalez, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on October 22, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and warmth that touched the hearts of many. Born on June 23, 1936, John lived a full and purposeful life, dedicating 43 years to the Illinois Central Railroad, which later became CN Railroad. His unwavering commitment to his career was a reflection of his strong work ethic and sense of duty.

In addition to his professional achievements, John proudly served in the United States Army from 1959 to 1961, spending time stationed in Korea. This chapter of his life instilled in him values of discipline and resilience, which he carried with him throughout his life.

John was known for his kind and warm-hearted nature. He had a remarkable ability to make others feel at ease, forging connections with friends and strangers alike. His loving spirit extended to his family, where he shared a deep bond with his wife, Mary. Together, they nurtured a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

John’s family included his son, David, and daughter, Diana, each of whom held a special place in his heart. His pride further extended to his two grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy into his life.

Outside of work and family, John was an avid gardener. His passion for gardening was not just a hobby; it was a means for him to connect with nature and share beauty with those around him. The fruits of his labor bloomed not only in his garden but also in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to savor his nurturing spirit.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia Gonzalez and Aurelio Gonzalez, who instilled in him the values he championed throughout his life.

A visitation to honor John Gonzalez will be held on November 4, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at McKenzie Funeral Home, located at 15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452. During this time, family and friends will gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable man who will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

10/29/2025

Katherine Ann Tully
June 12, 1951 – October 25, 2025
Katherine “Kathy” Tully (nee Foster), of Romeoville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, after a short battle with cancer.
Kathy was born on June 12, 1951, in Chicago to Donald and Betty Foster and devoted her life to faith, family, and service to others. A nearly forty year resident of Oak Forest, she poured her heart into raising her children and building a home filled with warmth, support, and faith. She was a long-time parishioner of St. Damian’s Church, where she volunteered in countless ways — always ready to lend a hand, share a smile, or offer a prayer.

Kathy's passing has left a hole in the hearts of her beloved husband, James; her cherished children, Danielle (Scott Joschko) and Sean; and her five adored grandchildren, Aidan, Liam, and Clare Joschko, Violet and Bodhi Tully, who were the lights of her life. She is also survived by her loving sisters, brother, and many nieces and nephews, all of whom she cared for deeply.
A devout Catholic, Kathy lived her faith daily through selflessness and unwavering love for her family.
Her life was a testament to service and the enduring power of love. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
Visitation will be at McKenzie Funeral Home Sunday Nov 2nd from 3 to 8pm and funeral arrangements will be held at St. Damian’s Church in Oak Forest. Details to follow.

10/20/2025

Irma Louise Zwiers, 83, was called home to her Savior on October 16, 2025, at her home in Oak Forest, Illinois, in the arms of her daughter, Cathrine.

Born on July 27, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois, Irma was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who poured her love into her family every day. She is survived by her longtime partner, Michael Ward, and her children: Robert (Phyllis) Zwiers, Cathrine (Dennis) Pechtold, and William (Kimberly) Zwiers. She was a loving grandmother to Nicole Zwiers (Jon Smith), Zack (Lisa) Zwiers, Jackie Infantino, Jessica Pechtold (Zak Lemmons), Jacob (Nicole) Pechtold, Lillian, Colton, and Chloe Zwiers, and an adoring great-grandmother to Xander, Re*****on, and Kade Zwiers, River Lemmons, and Jade Pechtold.

Irma is now reunited in Heaven with her beloved parents, John and Irma Kasper, and her sister, Johanna Skrapits.

Visitation Wednesday October 22nd 3pm-8pm at McKenzie Funeral Home in Oak Forest, 15618 S Cicero Ave. With a Funeral Thursday at 10am at St Damian Church in Oak Forest, 5250 155th st.

10/14/2025

Elizabeth J. Hanlon was born in Chicago, IL and passed away peacefully on 10/12/2025 in Tinley Park, IL at the age of 92.

Elizabeth (Betty) was preceded in death by her husband of 69 years John (Jack). Betty is survived by brother Jerome, children Colleen (Len), Maureen (William), Michael (Joanne), Therese (Ron); 10 grandchildren – Kevin, Amanda, Kelli, Dustin, Michael, Jennifer, Katie, Ryan, Carolyn, and Emily; 19 great-grandchildren – Isabel, Jorge, Genevieve, Theodore, Hailey, Hunter, Presley, Clara, Joseph, Zoe, Harper, Jack, Faith, Grace, Jace, Charlie, Hope, Abigail, and Gracie; as well as many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents Clarence and Genevieve Koch, brother Thomas, and sister Margaret.

Betty was a former 20 th Century Fox secretary, Bremen High School lunch lady, and a dedicated home-maker that blessed many with her many gatherings, meals, coffee cakes, and chocolate chip cookies. Betty loved meeting with people and enjoyed sunny days viewing the many hummingbirds that visited her kitchen window. She was a loyal Cubs fan, enjoyed word search puzzles, and could work a crossword puzzle in ink! Betty was an expert in cross stitch and crochet projects and blessed many with gifts of her skilled creations. She was greatly loved and will be dearly missed.

Visitation on Thursday, October 16, 2025 from 3-8pm Funeral Friday, October 17, 2025 at 9am from McKenzie Funeral home, 15618 Cicero Ave., Oak Forest, IL 60452 to St. George Catholic Church, 6707 W. 175 th St., Tinley Park, IL 60477. Mass at 10am. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial gifts to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959

10/03/2025

Virginia Scatena, 89, of Midlothian, Illinois passed away peacefully on September 29 th after a stay at Sunny Hill Nursing Home of Will County.

Virginia was born October 10, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois to the late John and Helen (Stopka) Pawela. On April 27, 1957 she married Bernard “Bud” Scatena and they were married 46 years until Bud’s death, September 2003.

Virginia loved being a devoted Mom to her 5 children and a beloved Grammy to her 4 grandchildren. She enjoyed traveling with her family, gardening and watching the birds enjoy her backyard.

Virginia is survived by her daughters, Lori (Mike) Koenig, Jeri Lynn (Mike) Bush, Michelle (James) Doyle; her son, Bernard “Bud” (Kathy) Scatena; sister, Geraldine Cooney; brothers, John Pawela and Rich (Shirley) Pawela; and four grandchildren, Kyle Doyle, Catrina Doyle, Isabella (Alex) Marin and Tyler Koenig.

In addition to her parents and husband, Virginia was preceded in death by her beloved daughter Lynda Scatena (Denise Podbielniak) and her brother Ronald Pawela.

In lieu of flowers, family requests that Memorial Contributions be made to The Friends of Sunny Hill, Inc. (www.Friendsofsunnyhill.com)

Visitation at McKenzie Funeral Home on Tuesday October 7th and a Funeral Mass at St. Damian in Oak Forest 10am with burial at Ressurection Cemetery in Justice IL on October 8th.

McKenzie Funeral Home

01/17/2026

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11/18/2025

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