Obituaries
Kerry Lynn Elizabeth Ciesielski
September 7, 1968 - August 23, 2023


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VISITATION
August 26, 2023 | 2:00 P.M.-5:00 P.M. -
Yurs Funeral Home
405 East Main Street
Saint Charles, IL 60174 - Funeral
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August 27, 2023 | Visitation 11:00 A.M.
Funeral Service 12:00 P.M. -
Yurs Funeral Home
405 East Main Street
Saint Charles, IL 60174 -
Burial Location
Private
Kerry Lynn Elizabeth Ciesielski (Callaghan), of Saint Charles, IL age 54 passed away peacefully on August 23, 2023 after a courageous battle with cancer surrounded by her loving family. She was greatly adored by her loving husband, children, sisters, extended family and friends.
Kerry was the proud daughter of Dr. J Harry Callaghan and Cheryl Ann Callaghan (Connors). She was born on September 7, 1968, in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada. She graduated from McGill University (Montreal) with an Occupational Therapy Degree. She worked as a travelling therapist throughout the United States until she met the love of her life, Chet Ciesielski in of all places, Connersville, Indiana. They began their wonderful adventurous life together 30 years ago in Connersville and were married on July 8, 1995 and subsequently blessed with their 2 wonderful children, Canan and Jaden. Their adventures took them as far away as living in India and travelling to places like South Africa, Dubai and Thailand to name a few.
Kerry was strong, independent, and fiercely protective of her family. Her children, Canan and Jaden, were her greatest treasure and she was so proud of them. Her sisters, Jana and Marla, meant the world to her. Family snap chats, vacations and many FaceTime calls kept our families close even though we were often miles apart. Our vacations were always a blast and left us with the most precious memories. She lived a very active lifestyle. She was an avid golfer and loved to play tennis and pickleball. She had a quiet competitive spirit (unlike her husband) but mostly loved being active and spending time with the people she loved. Her girlfriends meant the world to her. She did enjoy beating her husband frequently on the golf course and just recently pulled off a pickle ball win against him which can be difficult to do on any given day, let alone while battling aggressive Stage 4 cancer.
She loved working with children and spending the majority of her career as a pediatric Occupational Therapist. She was known to be one of the best around. “Ms. Kerry” was adored. Her expertise and compassion for children came in handy when her nephew was born 8 weeks premature. Kerry quickly offered support and guidance that provided a strong foundation to grow into the successful person he is today.
Kerry was beautiful, inside, and out. She had a flare for fashion and an uncanny superpower to find a great deal! She had a natural ability to see the beauty in things and this was evident by her 100 year old home renovation. She was able to conserve its natural beauty while adding her spectacular sense of style (according to Chet, she may have gone over budget, a TINY bit). It was well worth it to bring her vision to reality. She lived her life with grace and elegance and entered eternal life in exactly the same fashion.
She will be deeply missed by her husband Chet, son Canan, daughter Jaden all from Saint Charles IL. Mother Cheryl, sister Jana (Brent) Wilson, children Samuel, Jackson all from Calgary Alberta, CA. Sister Marla (Dino), children Tiah, and Torin all from Saint John New Brunswick, CA.
We would also like to extend a big thank you to the staff at on the 3rd floor at Northwestern Medicine at DuPage Hospital, you were great with us through this tough time.
In leu of flowers please send donations to the American Cancer Society:
American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 6704
Hagerstown, MD 21741
Visitation will be from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Saturday, August 26th. A second visitation will be Sunday, August 27th at 11:00 A.M. with a Funeral Service following at 12:00 P.M.. Visitations and Funeral Service will be held at Yurs Funeral Home of Saint Charles with address below.
405 East Main Street Saint Charles, IL 60174.
For more information call the Funeral Home, 630-584-0060.
She was preceded in death by her father Dr. J. Harry Callaghan.
Condolences
Kimberly Caldwell from Fort Myers, FL
"Our hearts go out to all of you. Thoughts and prayers are with you to help you get through this difficult time Love you all Frank & Kim"
Cheryl Shaffer from Fort Myers, FL
"Tom and I knew Kerry for such a short time and loved her sweet, gentle spirit. Chet, we are praying for you and your family through this most difficult time."
Mindy dingledine from Celina , OH
"I got to meet Kerry in pelican preserve and was honored that she asked me to shave her hair when it began falling out My life is better because of her She was an inspiration and I’ll always remember herMy sympathy to her family and friends"
Marlene Baker from South Bend , IN
"Chet I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family."
CIRA I Koetzle from Fort Myers, FL
"Dear Chet, children and family, Helmuth & I, join all of you in praying for the passing of our dear, sweet Kerry to eternal life. We thank God for allowing us to meet her and you and to be able to share fun moments playing Pickleball here in Pelican P. Chet , God grant you and family ,wisdom and strength at this not easy time. We Love you all very much. C❤️H"
Angie Baker Hoogeveen from South Bend, IN
"Chet - I’m so very sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts."
John & Thersa Deschamps from FORT MYERS, FL
"We knew Kerry for only a relatively short time, but Theresa and I will always fondly cherish the memories made during the two Christmas Eves the Ciesielski family spent in our home here in Pelican Preserve. Someone once wrote: The value of life lies not in the length of days, but in the use we make of them... By this measure, we take some comfort knowing Kerry truly lived a long, meaningful and beautiful life within the short time she was given. God Bless, and with all our Love. John and Theresa."
Jon Palmer from San Antonio, TX
"I met Kerry in Connersville, while passing through (maybe 1996). She was a beautiful person, and perfect for Chet (whom I grew up with). My daughter talked about how nice she was for years after that trip, and how she welcomed us. Rest in perfect peace, Mrs. Kerry."
Janet Gallant from Halifax , AK
"Chet, Canaan, Jaden, Janna, Marla and many others who loved Kerry, My heart is broken for you all. Although I lost contact with Kerry over the years I have many memories of her when we were young women. I remember her vivaciousness, charm, kindness and quick wit. A treasure for you all and a life much too short but well lived and full of love. My deep condolences."
Tom and Rita Snelling from Fort Wayne , IN
"We knew Kerry and Chet through our daughter Candice Chaffee. Kerry was one of the most selfless human beings that I know. Tom was going thru cancer as well, but when I would ask her how she was doing her answer back was always about how Tom was doing. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all."
Sarah Hodge from Geneva , IL
"The pediatric Occupational Therapy world has truly lost an incredibly passionate and dedicated professional with Kerry’s passing. I was blessed enough to get to know Kerry while working alongside her in Early Intervention. Through her dedication to her professional practice, kindness, and passion for helping children and their families, she touched and changed so many lives for the better. Kerry was always such a joyful soul and truly cared about her patients. Kerry, thank you for all you did to make the lives of children and families better, you will be deeply missed."
Judith Kays from Bedford, NS, CA
"To Cheryl, Chet, Jaden and Canan and of course Jana, Marla and familiesI am so sorry for your loss! Kerry and I grew up together as our dads were best buds for most of our lives! Kerry was always so kind and funny and full of fun as we went to high school and travelled together. In fact, my fondest memories are of us hanging out with our parents and their friends in Daytona! We shopped, swam in the ocean and lay in the sun getting our ‘tans on’. Kerry was quite simply the envy of everyone because she was beautiful inside and out. We kept in touch over the past several years through Facebook. She was a huge support for me (even from afar) when my dad passed away as she’d gone through it already with her beloved Harry. We even joked that’s why she named her puppy, Louis!! We often joked that they were somewhere having a drink of rum while playing a round of golf. Kerry, I know you fought hard hard. I know the ‘dads’ will welcome you to their game.Judith💕"
Trent Hayes and Lisa Arsenault from Stanhope, AK
"We send you our love and prayers at the loss of your most courageous and beautiful Kerry. Our hearts are broken for all of you. Hugs, Trent & Lisa"
RobbIe MacMillan from Charlottetown , FL
"My Deepest Sympathies and Condolences tomyou all. Kerry was a Wondrful friend in High School, who's Dad was my Family Dr until he passed. Kerry May You Rest in Peace inThe Arms of Your Precious Father who I'm sure was there to hold your hand. Absolutely floored when I read this. We chatted periodically thru messages while I was in Florida. god Bless You All. Robert C. MacMillan Charlottetown, PEI"
Dorothy Gray from Aurora , IL
"I had the pleasure of meeting Ms.Kerry . She was my son's OT. My family an I loved her! She always had a smile on her face and was a pleasure to be around. Rest in peace Ms. Kerry."
Katie Buss from Batavia, IL
"Ms. Kerry came into our lives when our son was 2 (he’s now 11). She came to our home as our son’s occupational therapist. She was the sweetest and kindest woman. We truly were grateful for the time she spent with us and our son, and we will never forget her. Our hearts go out to your family during this time. Sending love and hugs."
Darlene Morgan from St Charles, IL
"I met Kerry at St Charles Country Club. It was love right out of the gate She was the perfect combination of kindness, fun and smack talk. We bonded over the fact that we both survived breast cancer. It was a honor and a gift to have known her. She was fiercely proud and deeply loved her family."
Libby Whelan from Charlottetown., AK
"I was so saddened to hear of Kerri’s passing. She was a beautiful person & will be missed by so many. Hugs to all of you from your “PEI family” xxoo"
Rachel Kingsley from Dallas, TX
"All of the moments I had with Kerry were filled with smiles and robust laughter. She is a fantastic friend and I enjoyed every moment with her."
Mary Geismann from Geneva , IL
"Kerry and I met working the concession stand at Burgess when the boys played soccer together in High School. She was such a welcoming and kind person and she immediately made such an impression on me. I am thankful we stayed in touch over the years and I’m so sorry she lost her battle. I will pray for all of you"
Elissa Bettcher from Wauconda, IL
"What a beautiful spirit she was and will be as that smile and love carry on in this life. I only knew her briefly but she will not be forgotten. My sincere condolences to you all."
Mike from Aurora, IL
"The Garcia's send our deepest condolences to the Ciesielski and Callaghan families. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this most difficult time."
Sicily Finegold from Lake Mary, FL
"I met Kerry in Pune, India. She was always so positive and full of life. She was so brave, strong and a beautiful soul inside and out. She will never be forgotten. My heart goes out to you and your family at this difficult time."
Marylou Sinnott from Stratford, AK
"So very sorry to hear this - cherish your memories I live in PEI Van and our fathers practiced medicine together at the Charlottetown Clinic"
Yuri Volmir from Chicago, IL
"I haven't known Kerry, but I am deeply saddened to hear about her passing, just by looking at the comments I can see how much she was loved, and cherished by people who surrounded her, and that she was an amazing person. My heart goes out to the family during this incredibly difficult time. Losing a beloved wife, mother, and family member is a profound and heartbreaking experience. You have my heartfelt condolences, may her spirit and the love she brought into your lives be a source of strength as you navigate through this tough time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all."
Claire and Craig Lenz from Hilton Head, SC
"Canon, our deepest sympathies to you and your family. We met your mother at Delta Chi functions, remembering her beautiful smile, humor and warm friendliness, we talked about "our boys" and she was so proud of you! A very special mom!!! With Sympathy, hugs and love, Claire and Craig Lenz"
Abhi from Aurora, IL
"Chet, please accept our heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family as you navigate through this profound loss."
Joe Deal from Evans, GA
"Deepest sympathies Chet, for you and your families. Hearts and prayers go out for you during this time."
Maureen and George Berry from Fort Myers, FL
"Kerry was a delightful, joyful person that lived below us at Pelican Preserve for such a short while and yet it was long enough to realize how much of a privilege it was to get to know her and her beautiful family! We are deeply saddened for their loss but I know her spirit and love will help get them through this difficult time. 🙏🏻❤️"
Dee Dahowski from Ft Myers, FL
"Chet, I was so, so sorry to hear of Kerry's passing. Though your time here at Pelican Preserve was short, I so looked forward to seeing the three of you (including Louie) as I walked the neighborhood with Piper. In the beautiful obituary I could see instantly she was all that was said the first time we met on the sidewalk in Viadana. The world has lost another flower. May she rest in peace. God bless."
Ann & Allen Steinbeck from Fort Myers, FL
"Kerry and Chet were new to our community Pelican Preserve in Fort Myers when I met Kerry. She had such a vibrant personality that you felt like you’d known her for years! Our prayers go out to Chet and the family and for comfort and peace knowing that Kerry is now at rest."
Debbie Shust from Naperville , IL
"Although I believe I only met Kerry once, it is obvious from the obituary what an amazing wife, mother and friend that she was. I know there are no words to ease the pain right now but know that you and your family are in my prayers."
Kenneth V Kaniewski from Fort Myers, FL
"So sorry for your loss Chet. I have only known the both of you for a short time but what I will always remember about Kerry was her beautiful smile and bubbly personality. That was so apparent whenever we shared time together. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family. May she rest in peace."
Matthew Carr from Naperville, IL
"Chet, I'm so sorry for your loss. We are praying for you and your family.With love from the Carr family"
The Felix Family from Nazareth , PA
"Deepest condolences to the entire Ciesielski Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. We are here for you Chet! ~The Felix Family"
Justina from Sugar Grove, IL
"Sending love and prayers to Chet and family. Your work family is here for you Chet! Justina"
Charles and Sandy Chilton from Plainfield, IL
"We are so saddened for the loss of Kerry.Kerry was such a wonderful person and everyone was blessed with her exceptional energy.We continue to keep you all in our thoughts and prayers.Love you guys.Charles and Sandy"
Kathy Ready from Charlottetown Pei, AK
"Chet, Canan, Jaden, Cheryl, Jana, Marla and families, You are all in our thoughts and prayers through this most difficult time. Kerry will stay in our hearts forever ❤️Sending you all our love and hugs. Kathy and Jeff Ready"
Martin & Jill Bates from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, CA
"Our deepest condolences Chet to you and Canan and Jaden. Please take some comfort in knowing there are many people thinking of you all and the tragic loss of Kerry. Cherish the memories of her."
from ,
"Chet, Our hearts are with you and you family. We’re so sad for your loss. Love, David & Julie Will"
Sue Klinkhamer from St Charles, IL
"I work at the front desk at Norris and Kerry was one of my favorite “tennis ladies”. Always a hello and a smile even when we would spell her name wrong. 🥰 Rest in Peace"
Bonnie and Brian Hogan from Fort Myers, FL
"We are so shocked and saddened at Kerry’s passing. She was a lovely person and so much fun. She will long be remembered and missed at Pelican Preserve especially around the tennis courts. Our heartfelt sympathy to her family."
Elaine Partridge from Charlottetown, PEI/Mississauga, ON, AK
"Dear Chet, Canan, Jaden, Cheryl, Marla, Jana and families, my deepest condolences for your devastating loss. I met the Callaghan clan in 1980 when Kerry and I entered grade 7 at Queen Charlotte Junior High. Kerry was smart, beautiful and mischievous. She quickly became one of my best friends. Though we drifted apart after University, spending the halcyon days of our youth coming of age with a special group of friends in Prince Edward Island left me with indelible memories. My love and prayers are with you all at this very difficult time."
Dean & Nicole Mullin from Calgary, AK
"Deepest condolences to the entire family. You are in our hearts and thoughts at this difficult time. Dean & Nicole Mullin"
Michelle and Colin Corey from Calgary , AK
"Chet and entire family, words cannot express how sad we are for you all. We are so thankful that we got one last visit with you recently. Treasure the memories! Sending our love"
Somu Sundaram from Vernon Hills, IL
"Dear Chet, I am so sorry to hear the passing away of Kerry. Please accept my deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences! Words don’t do justice to how I feel for you right now as you bear the burden of Kerry’s demise. My prayers and thoughts are with you, Canan, Jaden and the rest of your family! May Kerry’s soul RIP!"
Jennifer Simon from Bolingbrook, IL
"I am so sorry to hear of your loss, Chet. Please know that you and your entire family are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time."
Anitra Schulte from Geneva, IL
"Kerry was my daughter's therapist for many years and to me, she was more special than I ever told her. But as those of you who called her yours, I'm certain you know just what I mean. I loved everything about your dear Kerry - her huge heart, sparkling eyes, persistence and hope and loyalty and partnership. I could fill a book with the ways she made an imprint on our lives - text after text, week after week, year after year. A constant companion and champion for our girl, who got her and loved her through and through. I count myself so lucky to have known her and been in her orbit. Her gorgeous smile will be in my memories forever."