Dr. Stanley John Szwalek Jr.

It is with profound sorrow and heartfelt reverence that we announce the passing of Dr. Stanley John Szwalek Jr., affectionately known as Stan, who departed this life on the 17th of May, 2026, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on December 19th, 1944, Dr. Szwalek’s rich and inspiring journey through life remains a beacon of dedication, intellect, and boundless compassion.

A distinguished member of the first graduating class of Birmingham Groves High School, Stan pursued his higher education with exemplary zeal, completing both his undergraduate and medical degrees at the University of Michigan. His medical training continued through an internship and residency at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, followed by a Nephrology Fellowship at Hutzel Hospital in Detroit, where his fervor for medicine and patient care was profoundly shaped.

Dr. Szwalek’s professional life was marked by notable achievements in nephrology, most prominently his pioneering work in establishing a dialysis unit at Mercy Hospital in Cadillac, Michigan, and his instrumental role in expanding the dialysis facility in Traverse City. His career reflects not only a brilliant mind but also a deeply caring spirit, consistently driven to improve and save lives with unique insight and gentle attentiveness.

Beyond the realm of medicine, Stan served his country with honor, enlisting in the United States Army for two years at Fort Benning, Georgia. This period of service further honed his discipline and fortitude.

Stan’s character was a tapestry woven with threads of intelligence, curiosity, tolerance, and an uncommon kindness. He was a man who treasured knowledge, imparting a lifelong love of literature, and classical music to those fortunate enough to know him. His leisure hours were often spent collecting and listening to classical records, indulging in the timeless beauty of classical books, and delighting in the arts by attending plays at theaters.

His passions were as varied as they were profound—playing the violin, mastering the art of downhill skiing at Boyne Mountain in Michigan, and sailing the serene waters of Lake Leelanau. These pursuits brought him immense joy and were a testament to his adventurous and cultured spirit.

Stan’s legacy is further enriched by the indelible memories he created with his family. He shared a cherished life with his loving wife, Maureen Szwalek, and was a devoted father to Kathleen, Laura (Tom), Stanley John (Jamie), and Theresa (Dane). His role as grandfather found its fullest expression in the warmth he bestowed upon Aaron, Ben, Sofia, Viktor, Clark, Teddy, and Henry. Their presence stands as a living tribute to his enduring influence and love. He also shared a life's worth of memories with his sister, Linda Braun.

Stan was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Stanley John Szwalek Sr. and Laura Szwalek (née Bujnarowski), whose memories live on in his heart and spirit.

Stan will lay In-state on May 27, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:00 a.m. at St. Malachy Catholic Church, located at 14115 East 14 Mile Road, Sterling Heights, Michigan. This will be followed by the Funeral Service on the same day at 11:00 a.m. where family, friends, and admirers will gather to pay their final respects and celebrate a life extraordinarily well lived. Interment will follow the services at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.

In remembering Stan, we embrace a man whose intelligence was only rivaled by the depth of his empathy, whose curiosity illuminated the path for those he guided, and whose presence enriched the lives of all privileged to know him. His is a legacy etched not only in professional accomplishment but in the quiet, enduring love he bestowed upon his family and community.

May Dr. Stanley John Szwalek Jr. rest in eternal peace, his life an enduring symphony of grace, wisdom, and heartfelt humanity.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Stan's honor can be given to either the National Kidney Foundation or to the Parkinson's Foundation.

Please share a memory, thought, or prayer with the family here on Stan's online guestbook.