Eileen F. Przybylo (Herzog)

Eileen F. Przybylo (Herzog), a cherished wife, devoted family member, and passionate community contributor, passed away peacefully on April 7, 2026. Born on April 17, 1963, Eileen’s vibrant spirit and loving heart left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

A proud graduate of St. Mary’s Grade School in Rockwood in 1977 and Gabriel Richard High School in 1981, Eileen carried the values instilled in her from a young age throughout her life. Her professional journey was marked by over 20 years of dedicated service in Information Technology, lending her expertise to notable organizations such as Security Bank & Trust, First of America, and Huntzinger Management Group. Yet beyond her career, Eileen’s passions radiated deeply through her community engagements and artistic pursuits.

At The New Vic Theatre in Kalamazoo, Eileen found joy both on stage and as a guiding hand behind the scenes as a board director. She delighted audiences with her portrayal of Mrs. Fezzwig in "The Christmas Carol," a role she held close to her heart. Her love for the holiday season extended beyond the theater, culminating in her graduation from the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Midland, Michigan. Alongside her husband, Chuck, Eileen embraced the spirit of Christmas by bringing cheer as Mrs. Claus at countless festive events such as Lake Erie and Oakwood Metroparks Santa events,  the Ford Credit Operation Good Cheer, Ritter School PTO Christmas event, and even braving the elements atop the Rockwood Fire Department ladder truck as they visited neighborhoods dressed in holiday splendor. Though Eileen and Chuck had no children of their own, their generosity and warmth extended to every child they met as Santa and Mrs. Claus, creating lasting memories filled with joy and kindness.

Her life was also enriched by a deep faith and a love for life’s simple pleasures. A cherished member of St. Roch’s Catholic Church Choir, Eileen was no stranger to the power of community and song. She also enjoyed history and nature through her involvement with the Rockwood Historical Society and treasured family camping trips that celebrated the great outdoors and togetherness.

Eileen is lovingly remembered by her husband Chuck Przybylo,. She met Chuck, the love of her life in 2007 and stalked him until he caught her. They married on November 7, 2015. She is also survived by her parents James and Jeanette Herzog, sisters Sue Benyo, Mary (Dave) Griffin, Barbara (Erin) Russell, brothers Mike Herzog and James (Ladonnis) Herzog, as well as her brothers-in-law Frank (Debra) Przybylo, Mark (Madonna) Przybylo, Steve (Terri) Przybylo, sister-in-law Diana (Terry) Farler, sister-in-law Nancy (Karl) Kempher, and her beloved dog Bronco. She was also deeply loved by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will carry her memory in their hearts. Eileen was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents Bernard and Martina Herzog, maternal grandparents Roy and Frances Skinner, brother-in-law Roger (Skip) Benyo Jr., sister-in-law Linda Przybylo, and cousins Jeff Skinner and Nancy Deromedi.

A visitation and rosary will be held on April 12, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at The Ford Chapel - Martenson Family Of Funeral Homes in Rockwood, Michigan, where family and friends may gather to honor her life. The rosary will be prayed at 6:00 p.m. The following day, a Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Saint Mary Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church in Rockwood, beginning at 10:00 a.m., with a Mass offered at 10:30 a.m.

Eileen lived fully, loved deeply, and gave freely. Her light continues to shine in the hearts of those who knew her and in every smile she inspired. Though she has departed from this world, her legacy of kindness, generosity, and joyous spirit remains a lasting gift to all. Rest in peace, dear Eileen. Your journey here may have ended, but your love and laughter will forever brighten our lives.