Kathleen “Kate” DeClerck, 68 of Stonington, passed away on Thursday, January 29, 2026, surrounded by her family in her home.  She was born on January 27, 1958, in Taylorville, the daughter of Lyle and Anne (Puckett) Swigert.  She married Richard DeClerck on June 25, 1983, in Stonington.  Kate graduated from Stonington High School in 1976.  She worked for many years at First Trust Bank and later First Mid Bank.  She also spent time working at Bella Amore Bridal Shop in Taylorville.  She served as treasurer for many years on the Stonington Summerfest committee.  She enjoyed spending time camping with her husband.  More than anything, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren.  She never missed a sporting event or activity that her kids and grandchildren were involved in. 

She is survived by her husband: Richard DeClerck of Stonington; children: Ginny Shapiro (Matt) of Taylorville and Adam DeClerck (Kristin) of Taylorville; grandchildren: Levi Shapiro and Gwynn Shapiro; siblings: Carolou Morman (Mike) of Edinburg, Deborah Braden (Glenn) of Decatur, Curt Swigert (Mary Sue) of Blue Mound, Cheryl Morman of Stonington, Robert Swigert of Stonington, Eric Swigert (Cheryl) of Stonington; mother-in-law: Ida DeClerck of Stonington; sisters-in-law: Barb Swigert, Julie Swigert, and Carol DeClerck (Brad) all of Stonington; cousin: Janet DeClerck of Stonington; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her parents; brother: Timothy Swigert; father-in-law: Bernie DeClerck; and brother-in-law: Dave Morman.

A funeral mass for Kate will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stonington with Fr. Jeff Grant officiating.  The visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday in the church.  Burial will be in Old Stonington Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Holy Trinity Catholic Church Altar and Rosary Society or Old Stonington Cemetery Association.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.