On February 15, 2025, our beloved brother, uncle, and friend, Mark A. Sawickis, passed away unexpectedly at home at the age of 58. Mark was a gentle, thoughtful soul whose passions—heavy metal music, Asian culture, sports, movies, and the online communities he cherished—touched people across the world.

Born on September 12, 1967, Mark grew up with a deep love of music and a curiosity that carried him through life. After graduating from Wethersfield High School and earning a Finance degree from Illinois State University, he worked as a cost accountant in Bloomington‑Normal and later at Walmart in Kewanee. Yet one of Mark’s proudest accomplishments was co‑founding the heavy metal band Impetigo, which connected him to fans globally and gave him lifelong friendships.

Mark lived for several years in Singapore and other parts of Asia before returning to Kewanee to care lovingly for his mother. He visited her almost every day while she was at Kewanee Care, showing the same kindness and loyalty that he extended to everyone he met. Through every challenge, Mark kept his humor, his warmth, and his unwavering concern for others.

Mark is survived by his siblings, Linda and John, their spouses, two nephews, cousins, close friends in Kewanee, and the worldwide Impetigo community who will remember him with affection.

As we navigate this loss, we are raising funds to help cover funeral and final expenses. Mark did not have resources set aside for end‑of‑life costs, and our family is doing everything we can to give him the dignity and care he deserves. Any contribution—no matter the size—will greatly ease this burden and help us honor Mark in the way he lived: with love, compassion, and generosity.

If funds exceed the cost of Mark’s final arrangements, all additional donations will be directed to a cause that was dear to him, continuing the spirit of compassion and connection he carried throughout his life.

There are no formal services planned right now, but our family hopes to bring together those who loved Mark for a memorial in his honor. We will share additional details as soon as they are known.

Thank you for supporting us during this incredibly hard moment, and for helping preserve the memory of someone who meant so much to so many.

With gratitude,

Mark’s Family