Walter "Sonny" Kwasny's Obituary
Walter Edward “Sonny” Kwasny, 82, passed away on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at Shelbyville Manor Nursing Home in Shelbyville, IL.
Sonny was born on October 8, 1943, a son of the late Walter Fred Kwasny and Bertha Mae Long Kwasny. He attended school at Fort Daniels Grade School, Brush College #2, and then graduated from Lakeview High School. Following graduation, he served his country in the United States Navy.
For 59 years, he made his living as a brick layer, eventually owning Kwasny Masonry; Sonny was initiated into Brick Mason Union Local #13 & #8 and served as president for 22 years. Additionally, he was a 32-degree Mason, affiliated with Argenta Lodge 871 and Ansar Shriners.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, sitting around a campfire cooking a hotdog, and spending time talking to friends and family. Family was very important to Sonny, and the memories made with them have always meant the most.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Gary Kwasny; and sister, Charlotte Jean McCoy.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Roberta “Birdie” Kwasny; sons, Bryan E. Kwasny and Jason E. Kwasny; daughter, Debbie Kwasny; sister, Judith Mae Claypool; and grandchildren, Landon Edward Kwasny and D. Kwasny.
Sonny’s family would like to extend special thanks to Bob Taylor, who always made time to stop by and visit; Terry & Nancy Chapman, who always called to check in; Connie & Butch Gilbert, who were always there when they were needed; and to the staff of Shelbyville Manor for their kindness and care.
Following Sonny’s wishes, cremation will be accorded with no public memorial to take place.
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