Gary James Svejcar

Gary J. Svejcar passed away peacefully at his home in Crystal Lake January 4, 2023.  He was born July 31, 1950 in Elgin to Frank and Joyce Svejcar.

Gary was a loving husband, father and grandfather.  He was also a devoted employee to all three of his jobs.  He served on the Crystal Lake Fire Department from July 11, 1981 to August 4 2010, putting in time to help save lives of those he didn’t even know.  He was a Master Certified and well respected mechanic technician at Crystal Lake Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.  The job he cherished most of all was working as a Crystal Lake Park District Police Officer from June 8, 1981 to January 4, 2023.  When his health declined and he knew he could no longer be in the field helping fight crime, checking on parks and making our town a safer place, he took an administrative position with the Park District Police to continue to work to make a positive difference in our city. 

When Gary wasn’t working one of his three jobs, you might find him playing volleyball or softball with friends or in his pool relaxing and soaking up the sun.  Gary was also all about giving back.  Whether he knew someone for ten minutes or ten years, he was always willing to lend a helping hand.  He organized a softball tournament of police vs. firefighters for charity.   He loved taking Tyson, the family therapy dog to adult homes to visit and make people smile.  He made yearly trips with Tyson up to Kids C.O.P.S. Camp every summer to spend time with children who lost one or more police officer parents in the line of duty. He also enjoyed participating in the Shop with a Cop program every year during the holiday season. 

Gary’s fondest memories were spending time with his grandkids, whether it be playing in the backyard, swimming in the pool, fishing in the pond or building huge towers with blocks.  He loved the interaction and making those memories that he will take with him.  He got great pleasure from interacting with the grandkids and watching them grow.  He also loved playing golf, fishing and swimming in his pool.

Gary is survived by his wife of 27 years, Theresa; children, Richard (Victoria) Svejcar, Jennifer (Tony) Polizzi, Cheryl Svejcar, and Heather Svejcar; grandchildren, M.J., Selena, Madison, Landon, Levin, Andrea, Scott, Rose, and Aaron; siblings, Frank Svejcar, Scott (Sue) Svejcar, Kim (Bob) Dunn, Shelley Svejcar, and Joy (John) Wardour; and many nieces, nephews, and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be 3 - 9pm Monday, January 9 at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave (Route 176), Crystal Lake.  The funeral service will be at 11 am, Tuesday, January 10th at the funeral home, with visitation from 10 am until the service. Burial will follow in Crystal Lake Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers donations to support Gary’s last wish would be appreciated.  His wish was to continue to support Kids C.O.P.S. Camp by providing an ice cream truck every summer with free ice cream for every child in attendance.  If interested in supporting his last wish, please donate at this link: https://gofund.me/4af61d6b