Artur "Art" Segieda

Artur “Art” Segieda, 61, of Worden, Illinois, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, October 31, 2026, shortly after enjoying a flight in his beloved Breezy aircraft.

Art was born on March 13, 1965, in East St. Louis, Illinois, to the late Wieslawa “Jeanette” and Kazimierz “Kaz” Segieda. He attended St. Peter and Paul Grade School in Collinsville, Illinois, St. Paul Catholic High School in Highland, Illinois, and Parks College of Engineering, Aviation, and Technology in Cahokia, Illinois.

Throughout his life, Art built a career that reflected his curiosity, technical talents, and lifelong passion for aviation. He worked as an aircraft mechanic, IT professional, and corporate pilot. A natural problem-solver, Art had an incredible ability to fix just about anything, especially if it had a motor.

Aviation was one of Art’s greatest passions. Whether he was flying, working on airplanes, spending time at the airport, or teaching others how to fly, he was happiest sharing his love of aviation with those around him. He especially enjoyed sharing that passion along to his children, friends, and fellow aviation enthusiasts. The airport was more than a place he loved; it was a second home filled with friendships that became family.

Outside of aviation, Art found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved traveling and boating with his family, spending time with his beloved dog, Whiskey Bravo, coaching soccer in his earlier years, listening to rock music, and never missing an opportunity to dance to “Safety Dance.”

Above all, Art was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He had a heart of gold, a generous (but sometimes mischievous) spirit, and a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome. He never knew a stranger and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Art worked tirelessly for the people he loved, putting his family first and giving so much of himself to ensure they were cared for. His kindness, humor, and love left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Art is survived by his loving wife and best friend, Christina “Chris” Segieda (née Ellis) of Worden, Illinois; his children, Kasia Segieda, Kali (Brandon) Belobraydic (née Segieda), and Devon (Cindy) Borgard; and his cherished grandsons, Beckett Belobraydic, Ethan Borgard, and Eryk Borgard. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who became an extension of his family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to their airport family for the years of friendship, love, and camaraderie they shared with Art, as well as their extraordinary efforts, care, and support on the day of his passing.

Memorial Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. on Friday, November 6, 2026 at Barry Wilson Funeral Home in Maryville, IL. A service will follow at 6 p.m.

Honoring Art’s Legacy

In honor of Art’s lifelong passion for aviation and his dedication to sharing that love with others, the Art Segieda Memorial Scholarship will be established through EAA Chapter 864. This scholarship will help inspire and support the next generation of aviation enthusiasts, ensuring that Art’s love of flying continues to soar for years to come.

Memorial contributions may be made payable to EAA Chapter 864, designated for the Art Segieda Memorial Scholarship and will be received at the visitation, or may be mailed to Barry Wilson Funeral Home, 2800 N. Center Street, Maryville, IL 62062.

EAA Chapter 864

Tax ID: 33-3969813

Art will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered for the countless lives he touched, the friendships he built, and the love he gave so freely.