Kathleen M. Gummow

Kathie Swartz Gummow passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, after a long, courageous battle with dementia. Born on June 5, 1943 in Boston, MA, to Bruce and Helyn (Casper) Swartz, Kathie’s life was a testament to resilience, kindness and creativity. She spent her formative years in Galena and Freeport, IL, graduating from Freeport High School before continuing her education at Michigan State University.

It was at Michigan State that she met her first husband, Karl Smiley, and together they began a family filled with love and adventure in Memphis, TN. After Karl’s passing, Kathie returned home to Illinois, where she later found love again with Brad Gummow. Together they designed and built a unique octagon home in Rockton, creating a space filled with warmth and individuality.

Kathie’s professional life was marked by dedication and service. She worked for the Illinois Secretary of State for much of her career, retiring in 2011. Her passion for her community led her to serve as Rockton Township Supervisor from 2005 to 2009, and later as a Trustee. Kathie gave her time and energy to numerous organizations, including the Rockton Women’s Club, Rockford Rotary Club, and League of Women Voters. As a devoted member of the Old Stone Church in Rockton, her voice graced the choir, bringing joy to all who heard her sing.

Kathie was a woman of many talents and interests. She instilled in her children a deep love of reading and learning, and her artistic spirit shone brightly through her work in painting, ceramics, jewelry making, and sewing. She found joy in exploring estate sales, traveling to new destinations, and cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren.

Kathie’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, including her sister, Sharon Keenan; brother, Bruce Swartz; longtime partner, Adam Prymak; her children, Barbara (Mickey) Macelli, Kathleen (Shannon) Hughes, Sharon (Brent) Blair, and Bradley Gummow; as well as her grandchildren, Alexandra, Natalie, Audrey, Harrison, and Artella; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She is reunited in peace with her parents, and her brother, Brian Swartz.

Kathie’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, service, and creativity. Her legacy of kindness and determination will continue to inspire all those who knew her.

Special thanks to Anam Memory Care and Transitions Hospice for their compassionate care of Kathie in her final years.

Memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 in Honquest Family Funeral Homes, Roscoe Chapel-11342 Main St., Roscoe, IL 61073 with a memorial visitation from 1:00 PM until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to cherished local charities such as The Old Stone Church Pantry in Rockton, Don’t Be Next Foundation in Rockton, the Barbara Olson Center of Hope in Rockford, or the Rockford Rescue Mission.

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