Donna L. Szydlo

Donna Louise Szydlo (nee Drs), age 84, of Riverside, IL, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 21, 1940 in Chicago, Donna was the only daughter of the late Frank and Mildred Drs. Her grandparents, Vladimir and Aloisce Kolinger played an important role in her upbringing. 

She married Richard "Dick" Szydlo on December 22, 1962 and together they raised three children: Joseph, Suzanne, and Claudia.

Donna was a devoted homemaker who dedicated her life to her family, friends, and her love of God's four-legged creatures. She had a remarkable way of connecting with those around her, and it was not uncommon for her children's friends to show up looking for the kids, only to find themselves at the kitchen table, engaged in hours-long conversations with Donna. She had a gift for making any topic fascinating, weaving anecdotes that would make time melt away.

Donna's love for adventure was also evident in her many travels with her husband Dick. Together, they spent countless hours aboard their boat, The Aqua Aries. On summer trips to South Haven via the shores of Lake Michigan, Dick might have commented on a light rain, while Donna would insist, jokingly or otherwise, that "the swells were 20 feet high, and the seas were angry that day." This became a cherished source of laughter between them and their family. Her quick wit and humor were legendary, always bringing a smile or laugh to those nearby.

In addition to their boating adventures, Donna and Dick shared a special fondness for New Orleans, where they enjoyed the local fare, culinary delights, and music—from the sounds of Louis Armstrong to delicious beignets and jazz at the Monteleone Hotel.

Donna’s compassion and candor extended far beyond her family. Her patience, willingness to listen, and caring nature made her a constant source of support and friendship to her many long-time friends.

An avid gardener, Donna’s home was always adorned with vibrant flowers and seasonal plants. It was also a welcoming house for countless pets that Donna nurtured and loved. These legacies of love and care continue to live on through her children and grandchildren’s green thumbs and love for animals.

Donna is survived by her children: Joseph (Elizabeth) Szydlo, Suzanne (Nicole) Szydlo, and Claudia (Robert) Hrody; and her seven grandchildren: Sarah Szydlo, John (Natalie) Szydlo, James (Nicole) Szydlo, Sasha Petruncio, Frank Petruncio, Alex Hrody, and Daniel Hrody, all of whom were a source of pride and joy. Donna was predeceased in Heaven by her beloved husband, Dick, with whom she is now reunited.

Visitation will be held at Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home on Wednesday, January 8, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.. A funeral mass will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at St. Mary's Church in Riverside, IL. A reception will follow the funeral mass. 

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Donna's doctors, nurses, and caregivers. A special thank you to Gloria Lucena for her selfless devotion to Donna and the Szydlo Family. Gloria has been a constant source of strength and dependability. She helped Donna's children navigate the difficult time of caring for and ultimately losing their parents, and for that they are eternally grateful. 

Donna’s compassion, unwavering love for her family, and zest for life made hers a life well-lived. 

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions would be appreciated to:

DuPage Wildlife Conservation Center 

WILDLIFE REHABILITATION 

525 S. Park Boulevard

Glen Ellyn, IL 60137