Joan E. Smagacz, 73, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away on June 26, 2026, as a result of a motor vehicle accident. Her initial injuries included multiple fractures, leaving her immobile for four months. She was looking forward to returning home when complications arose.

She was born on July 31, 1952, in Chicago, IL, to William John Gumm and Mary Florence Joyce and is survived by her friends and family.

Joan graduated from St. Mary High School and went on to earn an Associate of Science in Biology. She spent 10 years as a medical technologist before working for more than 30 years in healthcare customer service. At the time of her death, Joan was a receptionist at UroPartners in Libertyville.

She loved baking and cooking for her family and friends and was especially known for her breads, which were often the highlight of holiday celebrations. She also enjoyed watching the Hallmark channel, going to the theater and to movies, and spending time with her grandson.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd., Grayslake, IL, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., the next day, Thursday, July 9, at Transfiguration Parish, 316 West Mill Street, Wauconda, IL, followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at noon at Lindy’s Landing, 115 Park Street, Wauconda, IL. Interment will be private at Queen of Heaven cemetery in Hillside, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Boys Town (boystown.org) or Illinois AMVETS (ilamvets.org). For more information, please see www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847) 223-8122.