Kristen Michele Ziaja, age 49, of Wheaton, IL, formerly of Elmhurst, IL, passed away on Friday, November 28, 2025. She was born on March 20, 1976, in Waukegan, IL, to Richard R. Swanson and Ann (née Horniacek).

In her free time Kristen enjoyed her pets.  One of the great joys in Kristen's life was being a mother. She loved her children deeply and loved participating in family activities and gatherings.

Kristen leaves behind; her loving sons Christian Ziaja and Austin Ziaja; her brother Jeffrey A Swanson; her niece Cailla Swanson, nephews Jeffrey Swanson Jr, Nicholas Swanson, Benjamin Swanson, and her devoted parents.

Kristen was preceded in passing by Elmer and Lillian Swanson, Daniel and Judith Horniacek, and William Swanson.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Saturday December 6, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM with a Memorial Service at 4:00 PM at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 North Main St., Wheaton, IL 60187

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations in Kristen's memory be made to the Naperville Area Humane Society at https://www.naperhumane.org/