Gerald "Gerry" Swederski

Gerald “Gerry” Swederski, 89, of Fox Lake, unexpectedly passed away at home Monday, April 6, 2026. He was born September 10, 1936, in Chicago, to the late Leo and Dorothy (nee Harris) Swederski. He married Carol Bahling January 15, 1955.

Gerry was a strong believer in Jesus Christ, and lived his life being Christlike in service to others—just as God commanded. Active in church, he served as vice president of St. John Lutheran Church, Island Lake for three years, and leader of its youth group for four years. Gerry also served as scout master for three different Boy Scout troops.

A carpenter by trade, Gerry enjoyed traveling (especially cruises), playing Farkle, gardening, and volunteering locally and at Faith First Congregational United Church of Christ, Genoa City, WI. He was known for his jokes, always having a happy attitude, and for saying, “I don’t want to die, but if GOD wants me, I’m ready to go.” Gerry knew that if he had GOD, he had everything he needed.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 71 years, Carol (nee Bahling); twin daughters, Debbie (Bob) Buntenbach and Pam (Erin) Kester; grandchildren, Heather (the late Brad) Dorgan, and Jay (Natalie), Shane (Kristaina), and Brandon Foster; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great grandchildren; siblings, Len (Patty) Swederski, Sue Garfield, Ron Swederski, and Patricia (the late John) Brechel; and by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, Gerry was preceded in death by siblings, Bob, Geraldine, Bill, and Sharon.

Visitation Friday, April 17, from 9 a.m. until the start of the funeral at 12 p.m., at Colonial Funeral Home, 591 Ridgeview Dr., McHenry. Gerry’s favorite hymn, Blessed Assurance, will be played during the funeral. Burial will follow in Windridge Memorial Park, Cary.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Faith First Congregational UCC, PO Box 425, Genoa City, WI 53128, or the charity of your choice, appreciated.