Wayland E. Vacek

Wayland E. Vacek, 48, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, March 15, 2026 in Libertyville, IL. He was born April 28, 1977 in Omaha, NE and had been a longtime resident of Libertyville. Sometimes the strongest men leave the biggest holes in our hearts. The sudden loss of Wayland has left his beloved wife Kate and their boys Brayden and Ryder facing an unimaginable future without the husband and father who was the center of their world. Our hearts are broken by the sudden and unexpected loss of Wayland, a beloved husband, devoted father, loyal friend, and truly remarkable man. Wayland had a presence that made everyone feel welcome. With his warm smile, gentle spirit, and larger than life kindness, no one was ever a stranger to him. He was the kind of person who showed up for others, always ready with encouragement, laughter, and genuine care. A proud former Bearcat football player, Wayland treasured the lifelong friendships he built with his football brothers. The bond, camaraderie, and loyalty he learned on the field carried through every part of his life. But above all, Wayland was deeply devoted to his wife and family. He loved cheering on his boys, supporting them in everything they did, and being present for every moment that mattered. His pride in them was unmistakable, and his love for Kate, Brayden, and Ryder were the center of his world. His passing is devastating and completely unexpected, leaving his family and everyone who knew him heartbroken. Surviving is his wife, Kathleen “Kate” Mariani Vacek; 2 sons, Brayden & Ryder; father, Joseph Parizek; father & mother in-law, John & Marie Mariani; brothers, Thomas (Lisa) & Donn (Lisa) Vacek and by sister-in-law, Meghan (Matt) Potempa; brother-in-law, Andrew (Kate) Mariani; nephews and niece; Dominic and Benjamin Mariani, Olive and Ozzie Potempa As well as many extended family members and friends who love him dearly. He was preceded in death by Barbara Vacek; maternal grandparents, Edward & Shirley “Red” Vacek and by a brother, Edward Vacek. A visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. followed by a mass at 11:00 a.m. Friday, March 20, 2026 at St. Mary of the Annunciation Catholic Church, 22333 W. Erhart Rd in Mundelein. Arrangements by Burnett-Dane Funeral Home in Libertyville. For info: 847-362-3009 or share a memory at www.burnettdane.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations would be appreciated to his family as an education fund has been established for his boys. This fundraiser has been created to help support Kate and the boys as they navigate this unimaginable loss. Fundraiser for Kate Mariani-Vacek by Sybil Chadwick : Rallying Around the Vacek Family, in Memory of Wayland. https://www.gofundme.com/f/rallying-around-the-vacek-family-in-memory-of-wayland

Wayland E. Vacek

April 28, 1977 - March 15, 2026