Kimberly "Cog" Sweitzer

Kimberly "Cog" Sweitzer, a true country character, has left this world for greener pastures. He passed on Monday, February 3, 2025 at home after a courageous battle with cancer. Born June 22, 1954, the son of Leonard and Betty (Earlenbaugh) Sweitzer, Cog's early years were spent growing up on a farm, milking cows and doing chores along with his knack for getting into all sorts of mischief. Cog always kept his loved-ones on their toes.

As he grew older, Cog attended the Lanark High School with the Class of 1972. After leaving high school a year early, Cog went to work. From farming, excavating with heavy machinery, to driving trucks, Cog could do it all - often in his own unique, slightly unorthodox way.

Most recently, Cog enjoyed being with family. His true passion was spending time with his grandkids. He taught them about life and how to tinker with engines. He even taught them to dig ponds and push trees.

Of course, Cog loved the open road. He liked nothing more than hopping on his beloved Harley and feeling the wind in his face as he explored the winding country roads. And if he happened to get a little too enthusiastic with his riding, well, let's just say the local law enforcement knew him by name.

But for all of Cog's mischievous ways, he had a heart of gold. He was a loyal friend, a devoted husband, and a proud father and grandfather. And when it came to his family, he was always there to lend a helping hand, even if it meant getting a little dirty in the process.

He will be dearly missed by his wife, Deb of Mt. Carroll; five children, Jennifer (Mark) Bennett of Mt. Carroll, Matthew Sweitzer of Shannon, Melissa (Rob) Giffrow of Rockford, Casey (Sammy) Sweitzer of Lanark and Courtney Sweitzer of Chadwick; 12 grandchildren, Kayla, Kallie, Julius, Alana, Gavin, Ella, Forest, Hayden, Noah, Owen, Jennifer and Amanda; and a brother, Dan Sweitzer of Lanark. He is preceded in death by a brother, Larry Sweitzer; a sister, Faye Shellhause; and both parents.

Cog may be gone, but his memory will live on in the countless stories and tall tales that will be passed down for generations. So raise a glass (or a cold beer) to this one-of-a-kind country legend, and remember him for the spirited, hardworking, and hilariously unpredictable man he was.

A Celebration of Life will take place 4 – 7pm Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Law Jones Eastland. A funeral services will be held 1:30pm Friday, February 14, 2025 at the Cherry Grove Church of the Brethren with burial in the Cherry Grove Church Cemetery, Lanark.