https://www.mckenziefuneral.com/

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

02/18/2026

Mary made her faithful departure on the 28th of January, 2026. Behind, she left her husband Tom Nelson, siblings Phyliss and Patrick Moran, her daughter Cheri, her sons Thomas and, her son Daniel Nelson, married to Victoria Moore, who gave her three beloved grandchildren. She was a sister-in-law to William Zuziak and Les Seals, the late Ann, late Linda, late Margaret, late Melody, while also serving as a loving aunt to many and as a veteran of the United States Air Force.

Mary loved her three grandchildren: Antonio, Duke, and Dominic Nelson dearly. She could be described as loving, tender, and sweet to many. Mary spent her time with her family at her favorite restaurant Bartolinis, or at many numerous family events. She loved to strike up a conversation with anyone and could remember every single detail, while listening thoughtfully to what anyone had to say. There’s nothing Mary wouldn’t do for her family, and she was loved by many. She will be dearly missed.

"Let not your hearts be troubled” John 14:1-3

02/18/2026

Phyllis MaryAnne Lewner, 83, of Oak Forest, passed away on February 15th, 2026. She was born on July 18th, 1943 in Chicago,IL to the late Jacob and Anna Soltis. She will be remembered for her love of animals, gardening, camping, watching the waves in Lake Michigan but mostly the love for her family and friends.

She was the beloved wife of Ronald Sr. (deceased 1987). She was the loving mother of Kim McClintock (Martin), Ronald Lewner Jr. (Debra) Jackie Harvey (Andrew), and Kevin Lewner (Marlina).

Cherish grandmother to Jeremy, Adam, Justine, Ashley, Jessica, David, Rachael, Jacob, Maddie, Kit formerly known as Jane, Jillian, Katelynne, Anastasia, Alexandria and great grandmother to Reya.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, 02/19/2026 at McKenzie Funeral Home
15618 S. Cicero, Oak Forest, IL 60452 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm.

Family requests in lieu of flowers to make a donation to NAWS Humane Society in Mokena, IL.

02/16/2026

Diane T. Gerdes, age 86, formerly of Oak Forest, passed away Wednesday February 12, 2026. Born October 3, 1939 in Chicago, Illinois. Daughter of the late Charles Schneider and Niesje (nee VanEeren) Schneider. Preceded in death by husband Wesley Landau, husband Kenneth S. Gerdes, Sr. grandson Kenneth Gerdes III, son Jeffrey S. Gerdes (Lora), son in law Jay O’Reillly (Sandra). She is survived by brother Charles Schnieder, Jr. (Pat ), children Kenneth Gerdes (Linda), Nora Nolan, Timothy Gerdes (Peg), Thomas Gerdes, Gary Gerdes, Matthew Gerdes, Sharon Gerdes, Mark Gerdes (Kelly). 22 Grandchildren, 37 Great-Grandchildren. Many Nieces & Nephews. Diane attended Bogan High School, class of 1957 and Northern Illinois University. She was a Homemaker, and owned Jack Frost Ice Cream Shop. Retired and spent winters in Arizona and summers in Tinley Park. She was an avid golfer, loved to travel, play cards, enjoyed family parties and endless sporting events. A private family service will be held in March. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Diane’s name may be made to Lightways Hospice 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431

02/06/2026

Donald Harms, late of Country Club Hills, passed away on February 5, 2026, at the age of 81. Born on November 26, 1944, in Evergreen Park, he was married to the love of his life, the late Shirley Harms for 34 years. She was a source of strength and love throughout their years together.

Donald is survived by his stepchildren: Michael Malia, Linda (Jayson) Beale, Leonard (late Nancy) Malia, and Karen (Bradley) Burmeister. He had ten step-grandchildren and nine great-step-grandchildren. Donald was preceeded in death by his parents, Milton and Dorothy Harms, and several loved ones, including his stepson Steven Malia and his wife LueAnn.

Donald was a proud alumnus of Valparaiso University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing. He was a gifted craftsman who could build or repair anything. His analytical mind served him well. He loved woodworking, birdwatching, and tinkering in his yard throughout his life.

Don will be sadly missed by those who loved him.

A visitation in honor of Donald will be held on Monday, February 9, 2026, from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at McKenzie Funeral Home, located at 15618 S. Cicero Ave., Oak Forest, IL, 60452.

Visitation followed by entombment at Chapel Hill Garden South.

01/30/2026

Kelly Joan Hayes was a proud Irish woman through and through—full of heart, humor, and a gift for bringing people together. She was the kind of person who could turn any room into a celebration, and any gathering into a memory.

Kelly was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Joan Marsina Hayes and Donald Patrick Hayes, and by her brother, Donald James (Lorraine) Hayes.

She is survived by her six sisters: Charmain (Robert) Hayes-Norman, Maureen (Jack) O’Sullivan, Susan (Craig) Wurzer, Colleen (Sean) Walsh, Kathleen (Delano) Lacy, Bridget (Joseph) Fendler as well as a cherished circle of nieces and nephews who adored her.

Kelly’s greatest joy was her family. She was the proud mother of her daughter, Teagen Frances Hayes, and a loving “bonus mom” to Kathryn Marie Hayes, whom she cared for as her own. She is also survived by her son-in-law, Daniel Andrich.

Kelly was a devoted grandmother to Flora Frances Andrich, who brought her endless pride and joy. Her second granddaughter, Maeve Kathryn Andrich, was born three days after Kelly’s passing—a bittersweet reminder that love and life continue, and that Kelly’s presence will always be woven into the family she adored.

Kelly will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her family will carry her spirit forward—in their stories, their laughter, and the love she gave so freely.

Visitation
Thursday, February 5, 2026
3:00 - 8:00 pm (Central time)
McKenzie Funeral Home
15618 S Cicero Ave Oak Forest, IL 60452

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.

McKenzie Funeral Home

02/18/2026

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01/30/2026

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