Kathryn C. Schweda

With love and gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Kathryn C. Schweda (Kathy), wife, mother, teacher, counselor, traveler, and maker of countless cozy things, who left us peacefully on July 18, 2025, at the age of 76.

A celebration of her life will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home in Lake Zurich, IL. A short service will be held on Friday, July 25, 2025, at 11:00 am also at Ahlgrim's Funeral Home, 415 S. Buesching Rd, Lake Zurich, with burial immediately following.

Born on May 20, 1949, in New Castle, PA, Kathy lived a life full of curiosity, care, and quiet strength. As a teacher and counselor, she guided students through life’s challenges with equal parts patience and humor, always knowing when someone needed a gentle word—or a perfectly timed quip to make them smile.

Kathy was the proud mother of three children— Matthew, who predeceased her, Melissa and Michael. Later in life, she found love again and shared her years with her beloved husband, John P. Schweda, creating a home filled with love, cherry pie, adventure, and unwavering companionship. When she wasn’t guiding students or caring for her family, she was exploring the world—her suitcase always ready for the next adventure. From faraway places to hidden gems close to home, travel filled her heart with wonder. And when she was home, she found quiet happiness in sewing and knitting, crafting pieces of beauty and warmth for those she loved.

Her sly sense of humor was legendary—never loud, but always sharp enough to make you pause before bursting into laughter. She could lighten a heavy moment with just the right quip or a perfectly timed smile.

Kathy leaves behind her husband of 25 years, John P. Schweda, her children, Michael (Jill) Ventrone, Melissa (Todd Shaffer) Ventrone, and stepdaughter, Nicole Bognetti, her grandchildren Jenna and Maddie Ventrone, and a circle of family, friends, and former students who will carry her spirit forward.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Women’s Alzheimer’s Research Initiative.

She may have set down her needles and her suitcase, but the warmth she created—and the love she gave—will remain with us always.