Mary Lou Kendys (nee Skarzynski), formerly of Riverdale, IL and Schererville, IN, passed away January 10, 2026 in Dyer, IN. She was born on September 8th, 1946, to Walter and Veronica Skarzynski (nee Gavin) in Chicago, Illinois. Mary Lou is survived by her loving husband of 57 years Norman, devoted son Kevin, and beloved brother Ron (Joyce). Mary Lou was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Veronica, and sister Patricia (Daniel) Moit. Mary Lou was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and friend. Mary Lou was always the last to ask and the first to give, and could always be relied on to offer a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. She worked for Illinois Central Railroad – later Canadian National – for nearly fifty years, and earned numerous commendations and awards for superior service. A faithful Catholic, MaryLou spent many years in service of our Lord at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Schererville, and joyfully volunteered to take on responsibilities wherever she was needed. Mary Lou was known for her kind demeanor, impeccable taste in modern and antique décor(especially during holidays), and always answering “yes” to seeing a movie. From Hallmarkmovies to slasher films, she rarely came across a film that she couldn’t enjoy. Where others found fault, Mary Lou always looked for the good. She will be dearly missed, and all who knewher are better people for it. A celebration of life will be held on March 3rd from 2:00pm to 4:00pm at Lincoln Ridge Funeral Home in Schererville, IN, followed by a 10:30am Mass on March 4th at St. Michael’s Catholic Church Schererville, IN.
Mary Lou Kendys
February 21, 2026
1768



