It is with sorrow and gratitude that we mark the passing of Kent Dillon Burroughs of Elwood, IL — sorrow at the loss, gratitude for the life.
What follows is not the whole story, but a thread of it.
Kent held deeply to the Catholic faith — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
Few who serve speak of it freely; those who knew him understood.
Kent Dillon Burroughs
June 5, 1938 – May 1, 2025
Kent Dillon Burroughs, age 87, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Friday, May 1, 2025.
Kent was born June 5, 1938, to Dillon and Marion (Schwingen) Burroughs in New York, NY. After moving to the suburbs of Chicago as a young child, he was proudly among the first graduating class of Elmwood Park High School.
After serving his country in the United States Air Force, Kent graduated from Northern Illinois University, where he met the love of his life, Joan (Haegele). The two were married on December 24, 1966, at Saint Raymond Catholic Church in Mount Prospect, IL.
Kent dedicated his career to public service with the State of Illinois, spending years helping people through the Department of Public Aid and later with Child Support Enforcement. He also proudly served in the Army Reserves for over 20 years.
An athlete at heart, Kent excelled in sports throughout his youth and carried that passion into adulthood as an avid golfer. He was a devoted lifelong Chicago sports fan -especially the Cubs and Bears. Kent also loved movies and found joy in a good book.
Kent is survived by his beloved wife Joan; his children Michael Burroughs, Alisa (Tony) Chavez, and Christopher (Jill) Burroughs; his five grandchildren, Garrett, Jackson, Carter, Olivia, and Elliotte; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by
his parents.
Funeral Services
Friday, May 15, 2026
St. Katharine Catholic Church
8S055 Dugan Rd, Sugar Grove, IL 60554
Visitation: 9:30 – 11:00 AM
Mass at 11 AM
In lieu of flowers
The family welcomes donations to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul – St. Katharine Drexel Conference.
