Chris Chlystek Obituary

It is with broken hearts and deep sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved Chris Chlystek, of Kalamazoo, Mich., on April 11, 2025, following a tragic accident. He was 41 years old.

Born on Feb. 1, 1984, in Marshall, Mich., Chris spent his early years on the family farm in Homer, Mich., where his mischievous spirit and adventurous nature were evident from the start.

As a young Boy Scout, Chris developed a deep love for the outdoors, living by the Scout motto of "Do a good turn daily." His dedication to service led him to achieve the esteemed rank of Eagle Scout, highlighted by his landscaping project at Our Lady of Fatima Church.

After graduating from Athens High School with the Class of 2003, Chris went on to pursue his passion for mechanics.

He earned an associate's of science in aviation maintenance and later completed a bachelor's of science in political science from Northern Michigan University, always eager to expand his knowledge and skills.

Chris's professional journey began with Toyota in Wisconsin, and later took him to Kalamazoo, where he continued his work with the company.

He also held positions at Parker Hannifin and most recently worked at Flowserve.

Throughout his career, Chris was admired for his intelligence, work ethic and commitment to excellence.

A true outdoorsman, Chris was known for his boundless sense of adventure.

He loved sharing these experiences with his friends and family, whether it was a cherished family trip to Drummond Island in the Upper Peninsula during the pandemic, visits to the family's secret fishing spot in Oscoda, Mich., or hunting trips with his best friend Jesse Stewart in Southern Indiana.

Wherever he was, Chris could always be found in nature, surrounded by those he loved.

When he wasn't exploring the outdoors, Chris was giving of his time and love to those around him.

Whether it was helping his best friend's family, offering a hand to his parents with tasks on the farm, or playing with his cherished goddaughter Kamila and niece Julia, Chris was always the first to offer support and kindness.

His selflessness and generosity were felt by all who knew him. In a world where many focus on what they can take, Chris consistently focused on how he could give and serve others.

A man of deep faith, Chris lived his life with integrity, regularly attending Mass and embodying the values that shaped him.

His Polish heritage was something he carried proudly, from flying the Polish flag in his home to enjoying Polish music, always finding a meaningful connection to his roots.

He is survived by his parents, Danuta and Francis of East Leroy, Mich.; his brother, Tom (Joanna) of Downers Grove, Ill.; his sister, Victoria of Chicago, Ill.; his beloved nieces, Julia and Kamila, to whom he was a proud and loving godfather; Lucy Bennett of Scotts, Mich.; Rob Bennett (Katie) of Scotts, Mich.; Elizabeth Chlystek of Albion, Mich.; Ed and Janet Chlystek of Saginaw, Mich.; Tyler Chlystek of Grand Rapids, Mich.; Hannah (Arnold) Chlystek of Three Rivers, Mich.; Frank and Luvetia Zaski, Franklin, Mich.; Tim Tracey of Ann Arbor, Mich.; and Barb-Tracey Sisler of West Jordan, Utah.

Loving family, surviving in Poland, Witalis (Barbara) Pogorzelski, Halina (Zennek) Krawczynska, Warsaw; Grzegorz Pogorzelski, Kobylin; Justyna (Karol) Iwaniuk, Ewa (Tomek) Klempert, Radule; Michael (Agata) Pogorzelski, Kobylin; Przemek Pogorzelski, Julita (Artur) Kacprowicz, Warsaw; and Marcin (Jowita) Krawczynski.

Chris was preceded in death by his grandparents Frank and Zenobia Pogorzelski, Frank and Benjamina Chlystek, and his beloved Uncle Ken Bennett, who he shared the love of the Detroit Lions with.

Chris's warmth, humor and unwavering generosity left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. Although our hearts are shattered, we find comfort in the love he shared and the precious memories that will continue to live on in each of us.

We will forever miss you, Chris, but we will always carry your spirit with us.

A mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, April 21, 2025, at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 8220 M-60, Union City, MI 49094, with Rev. Father Dan Hyman as celebrant.

Cremation will follow and private interment will be at Riverside Cemetery in Albion.

Visitation will take place from 3-7 p.m. on Sunday, April 20, 2025, with a rosary service beginning at 6:30 p.m., at Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation, 1276 Tate Trail, Union City, MI 49094.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made out to Our Lady of Fatima, with "Building Fund" on the memo line, and mailed to Lighthouse Funeral & Cremation, P.O. Box 161, Union City, MI 49094.

Please visit www.light housefuneral.com to share memories, pictures and videos with the family.