Kevin Grodzki

Kevin S. Grodzki, beloved husband, son, brother, father and grandfather, passed away at his home in Barrington, IL on August 3 ^rd , 2021 at the age of 66. Kevin was born in New Brunswick, NJ on May 29, 1955 to parents Louise (nee Ziemba) and Stephen Grodzki. He is survived by his mother, sister Mary Lou, wife Marcella (nee Mahal), two sons: David (Gail) and Ryan (Caroline), and two grandchildren: Colette and Celia.

Kevin treasured his time at St. Francis University in Loretto, PA where he played basketball and football, and met his wife in 1974. His career spanned more than 40 years, most notably with DuPont and Brunswick Corporation, where he enjoyed roles focused on business development, communications and sustainability. He took great pride in his contributions to health and wellness during his time at Brunswick’s Life Fitness, and his zeal for travel led his family to assignments across the US, England and Germany before settling in the Chicago area in 2001.

He became a friend and role model to many and will be deeply missed for his kindness, honesty, and steadfast yet gentle leadership. Many colleagues who admired Kevin for his acumen and drive became lifelong friends due to his warmth, principles, and values. He consistently made time to mentor young graduates and frequently returned to his alma mater to teach & inspire a new generation of business leaders. Kevin loved all forms of exercise, gardening, and traveling, as well as spending time with family at his retirement home in South Carolina.

His family was shocked to learn of a late-stage pancreatic cancer diagnosis in June 2021, but Kevin handled his battle with the consummate grace and strength with which he faced all challenges. He was loving, humorous, and giving until the very end, and passed on surrounded by family as he wished. Kevin was a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. He will be deeply missed. His life exemplified supreme integrity and will provide an enduring example of what it means to be a good man to all those who knew him.

His family would like to express deep gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received. Memorial services will be private, and in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Francis University’s Red Flash Futures.