Penny Michelle Trejo

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Penny lived for "her guys," as she affectionately called her husband, Jim, and her son, Luke.

Penny Michelle Trejo, nee Szydlowski, age 45, cherished wife of Jim Trejo. Devoted mother of Luke Trejo. Dear daughter of Paul Szydlowski and the late Karen, nee Hamilton. Loving cousin of Jenny Hamilton-Cho.

Penny was a beautiful woman, full of life, love, and joy. She was a devoted wife and a loving mother to her son, Luke. More than anything, Penny lived for "her guys," as she affectionately called her husband, Jim, and her son, Luke. They were the center of her world and the source of her greatest happiness.

Penny loved to cook and was truly gifted in the kitchen. She passed that love on to Luke, and together they created countless family dinners and holiday treats. The kitchen was often filled with the sounds of music, laughter, and dancing. Penny and Jim would dance together while dinner was cooking, and more often than not, Luke would join in. These moments perfectly captured who Penny was and what made her spirit shine.

She also had a deep passion for caring for others. As a medical assistant, Penny built meaningful relationships with many of her patients. She was intelligent, compassionate, and dedicated to her work. Penny took great pride in her profession and could often be found wearing her scrubs long after her workday had ended.

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Heaven is a brighter place with Penny in it, and her love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on.

Penny loved movies and was known for speaking in movie quotes that brought smiles to those around her. She enjoyed music, spending time outdoors, and often reminisced about exploring the woods behind her childhood home when she was young.

Camping was another one of Penny's favorite pastimes. Whether she was grilling dinner, sitting around a campfire, or enjoying game nights in the camper with her family, she treasured every moment spent with her guys.

An avid reader, Penny rarely went anywhere without a book in hand. Whether camping, relaxing at home, or soaking up the sun, reading brought her comfort and joy.

Penny was also incredibly artistic. She had a natural talent for freehand painting and creativity of all kinds. Her artistic gifts extended to cake decorating, where she created many beautiful and memorable cakes for family and friends.

Above all, Penny was a caring, loving, and compassionate woman whose warmth touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by the family and friends who loved her.

Heaven is a brighter place with Penny in it, and her love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Visitation Wednesday, October 21, 2026 from 3-7 p.m. with a Funeral Service to follow at 7:00 p.m. at Colonial Chapel, 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr. & Harlem) Orland Park, IL.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com 708-532-5400