Blake Kalbus
November 26, 1996 - December 10, 2025
Blake Vincent Kalbus, age 29, of Hebron, McHenry County, Illinois, passed away on December 10, 2025.
Born on November 26, 1996, in Fort Atkinson, Jefferson County, Wisconsin. Blake was known for his remarkable work ethic and his ability to tackle any challenge. From a young age, he demonstrated his skills by working in Charter Cable burial and excelling in concrete work. His inventive spirit allowed him to fix anything, earning him a reputation as someone who could “MacGyver” any situation.
Blake’s adventurous spirit shone through in his love for cars. He relished the thrill of destroying cars only to spend days bringing them back to life. Always one to find himself in the heart of action, Blake was also quick to smile and endlessly generous, often giving the shirt off his back to help his friends and family.
He attended Fort Atkinson High School and Phelps High School, where he likely developed many of his lifelong passions and friendships. Blake’s life was enriched by his beloved family, including his son, Liam James Kalbus, with whom he shared a deep bond. He is survived by his mother, Nikki (Smith) Kalbus and her partner Jeff Lesiewicz; his beloved sister, Brooke Taylor Tadych; his precious nieces Aria Sage Pennell and Dahlia June Mayer; half-sister, Jessica Lynn Copsey; maternal grandparents, Jerry and Karen Smith, and Cheryl Roberts; Uncle, Jay Kalbus; and special friends, Cody Herscha, Travis Buckmaster, Kyle Loepke and Tom Halvorsen. And of course his fur babies, Nola, Kelso and Rubber.
Blake was predeceased by his father, Art Kalbus; and his great-grandmother, June Smith.
A celebration of life is planned for early summer of 2026, where friends and family will gather on some spacious land to honor Blake’s memory. The event will feature his favorite “Stinky Diesels” and the presence of Cody with the Monte Carlo, and god knows what Kyle will come up with, embodying Blake’s love for cars and camaraderie. Food and beverages will be provided, ensuring a fitting tribute to a life so vibrantly lived.
Blake’s legacy is marked by his indomitable spirit, his resilience, and his unwavering kindness. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, leaving behind memories filled with joy, adventure, and the echo of his laughter.
