Duane A. Szymkowski

Duane A. Szymkowski Of Mount ProspectDuane passed away on 7/31/2016 due to prostate cancer." He was born on March 18, 1944, the beloved son of the late August and Helen Szymkowski (nee Gotkowski)." He was raised in the Bridgeport neighborhood of Chicago." Survivors include his beloved wife of 48 years, Carol (nee Verchota), loving sisters, Judi Szymkowski, and Mary Szymkowski" (Christopher) Jordan." Adored neice/Godchild, Holly Jordan and nephew, Christopher, as well as numerous cousins and friends." Also, his "girls" Shadow and Roxie.Duane was a natural athlete, excelling in basketball and softball." He was recently honored to be chosen as one of the best basketball players of the 60's decade by his alma mater, Lewis University." He was employed over 40 years at the former Continental Bank (acquired by Bank of America)." He truly enjoyed those years and the friendships of his co-workers." Duane was a die-hard White Sox and Bears fan.A true Pisces, Duane loved the water." He and Carol enjoyed many vacations in the San Diego, Carmel and Monterey areas of California." In August of 1995, he suffered a major stroke leaving him permanently disabled, unable to work at the job he loved and the many activities he enjoyed." He met this challenge with courage and hope - he was a true hero to others. "When no longer able to travel a long distance, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, became a favorite destination.Duane's family wishes to express great gratitude to our wonderful families, friends, neighbors, and caregivers for their love and support in the most difficult of times." And to those affected by a chronic illness and to their caregivers; May God Bless You!Rest in peace, my loving Big Guy.Visitation Wednesday, August 3, 2016 from 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm at Glueckert Funeral Home, Ltd., 1520 N. Arlington Heights Rd. (4 blocks south of Palatine Rd.) Arlington Heights and Thursday from 8:30 am until time of Prayers 9:15 am, proceeding to St. Thomas Becket Catholic Church, 1321 Burning Bush Lane, Mt. Prospect, for Funeral Mass at 10:00 am." Interment Private." Masses or contributions to Lewis University One University Parkway, Romeoville, IL 60446-2200 Attn: Athletics Giving.Funeral Information and condolences www.GlueckertFH.com or (847) 253-0168.