Linda K. Ksiazek, 83, was born on May 17, 1943, in Stromsburg, to Gerald Franklin Schott and Della May Whited Schott. She passed away on July 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family and the memories of a life devoted to her loved ones, dear friends, and the communities she cherished.

Linda spent her early childhood in Silver Creek, before her family moved to a farm three miles north of Clarks.

She treasured her years in the Clarks area and often spoke fondly of the many family friends who helped shape her life. Among those who held a special place in her heart were Ase and Roma Pollard. Linda assisted them with household chores, bookkeeping for their gas station and service center, and caring for their children. The Pollard family remained dear to her throughout her life, and she always held them in the highest regard.

In 1962, Linda married Jerry Ksiazek.

Together they welcomed three children, Kimberly, Kevin, and Kurtis.

During the early years of their marriage, Linda worked at BD in Columbus, and later worked in childcare while the family lived in Omaha.

As Jerry’s career in the insurance industry grew, the family relocated to Rockford, Illinois. Linda embraced her role as a homemaker, taking great pride in creating a warm and welcoming home.

She had a remarkable gift for gardening and landscaping, spending countless hours tending to her flowers, plants, and outdoor spaces.

In the late 1970s, the family moved just outside Winnebago, Illinois, where Kimberly and Kevin graduated from high school. In the early 1980s, Linda settled near Oregon, Illinois, where Kurtis attended Oregon High School, worked at the local grocery store, and graduated in 1991.

Linda loved her beautiful country home near Oregon and took tremendous pride in its stunning landscaping and swimming pool. Her home became a gathering place where family and friends created countless cherished memories.

Throughout her career, Linda worked as an insurance agent in the Rockford area, helping both families and businesses. Beyond her profession, she was known for her caring heart and generous spirit. She also worked as a caregiver, allowing local residents the comfort of remaining in their own homes while assisting them with their daily needs. She formed lasting friendships with many of those she cared for, a testament to her compassion and genuine concern for others.

During the last twenty years of her life, Linda made her home once again in Rockford.

She became an advocate for her neighborhood and community through her volunteer service with the Rockford Police Department. She deeply valued the friendships she made there and took great pride in giving back. Staying involved in community issues and serving others brought her both purpose and fulfillment.

Linda’s greatest joy was her family. She was immensely proud of her children, Kimberly, Kevin, and Kurtis, as well as her stepson, Matt Fruin. She treasured her grandchildren, Bayley Ryanne, Dustin Chomjak, and Delaney Chomjak, and loved watching them grow.

Those left to cherish Linda’s memory are her daughter, Kimberly of Central City; her son, Kurtis, of Rockford, Illinois; her brother, Gordon Schott, of Central City; her granddaughter, Bayley Ryanne, of Mukilteo, Washington; her grandson, Dustin Chomjak; her stepson, Matt Fruin of Raleigh, North Carolina; along with many other extended family members and dear friends.

Linda was preceded in death by her parents, Gerald Franklin and Della May Schott; her parents-in-law, Alonzo and Barbara Ksiazek; her sister, Genelle Anne Clements; her former husband, Jerry Ksiazek; her beloved son, Kevin Ksiazek; her grandson, Delaney Chomjak; and her niece, Brandy Hughes.

Linda will be remembered for her kindness, unwavering work ethic, love of flowers and beautiful landscapes, willingness to help anyone in need, and her remarkable ability to make everyone feel heard, valued, and understood. Her love for her family, her friendships, and her communities will remain an enduring part of the lives she touched.

A celebration of Linda’s life will be announced at a later date.

The Republican-Nonpareil| August 27, 2026