410 East Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030
Call Us: 847-223-8122
Pre-planning consultations meeting your needs
Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium

operated since 1898

services we provide
Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium

operated since 1898

services we provide

Dale L. Sphatt

Dale Lee Sphatt, a resident of McHenry, passed away on July 19, 2024 at Northwestern Hospital in McHenry, IL after visiting with his wife and many dear friends.  Dale was born to William and Bernice Sphatt on September 13, 1955 in Elgin, IL, where he grew up and attended school.  In 1972 he became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and enjoyed a tremendous spiritual family since then. He has been a member of the congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Round Lake, IL since 1978. 

Dale is survived by his wife, Susan Sphatt, they were happily married for almost 48 years. He is also survived by many family members that he deeply loved. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 3:30pm at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 427 S. Cedar Lake Road, Round Lake, IL 60073. All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Francis R. McNeill

Francis R. McNeill of Grayslake, IL was born August 31, 1927, to Cecil and Iva McNeill in Flint, Michigan and grew up in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in Gould City.  He passed away on July 29, 2024.  As a young man, his family owned a team of Percheron horses which they used for logging.  As an adult, Fran moved to Illinois to work at a wire mill.  He worked at the American Can Company until he was hired by the Frank G. Hough Company, which eventually became International Harvester.  He worked there for many years as a test stand operator until his retirement.  Fran played semi-professional baseball for a time.  He married Barbara (Anjaria-Mehlhorn) in 1991.  Fran enjoyed bowling, fishing, and golfing in his spare time.  In his retirement, he enjoyed restoring vehicles.  His restorations included a 62’ Chevy Apache, a 42’ Dodge truck and a 63’ Corvair, among others.

Fran was very active in his church.  He was a member at Immanuel Lutheran Church for over 70 years.  He served on a number of Boards and the Council.

Fran loved to garden.  The family fondly remembers all the potatoes, tomatoes, and other vegetables he grew in great numbers.  He loved working outside taking great pride in his lawn.  Fran enjoyed cooking and is known for his beef stew, grandma’s chili and his spareribs.  “Boy were they good.”

Fran is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers; Cecil, Lawrence, Harold, and Don; and two sisters; Lola and Florence, and his first wife, Erna (nee: Price).

He is survived by his wife Barbara, children Steve (Shirley), Jeff, Timothy (Sherie) and Mehul Anjaria (Cynthia), grandchildren Jason, Evelyn (Eddie), Lauren, Jameson (Carissa) and Joshua (Nicole).  He is also survived by eight great-grandchildren whom he loved dearly.

Memorials may made to Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church in Waukegan, Illinois.

A visitation will be held at Immanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church 1310 N. Frolic Ave. Waukegan, IL 60085 on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 10:00am until 11:00am with the funeral service commencing at 11:00am.  All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto ww.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122 

Joseph R. Washco

Joseph Richard Washco, age 67, a resident of Round Lake Park, passed away on July 16, 2024 at his home.  He was born on June 7, 1957 in Chicago to Richard J. and Judith C. Washco. 

Joseph is survived by his sister, Karen Borgias of Mesa, AZ; his nephew and niece, Branden Reece of Mundelein, and Heather (Alex) Schabel of Meza, AZ; and his great nephews, Kyle Gladfelter, Kache Schabel, and Kingston Schabel.  He was preceded in death by his parents.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 12 noon to 4pm at the VFW Post 4308, 130 Grand Ave, Lake Villa, IL. All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Benjamin J. Ranes

Benjamin J. Ranes, age 33, a resident of Round Lake, IL passed away on July 16, 2024 at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago, IL.  He was born on December 21, 1990 in Lagrange, IL to Lawrence and Elizabeth (nee Fick) Ranes.

When he was young, Ben’s family thought he would be a diplomat. He was good at keeping the peace. Ben had other dreams; he wanted to be a zebra. 

Always unapologetically himself, Ben’s wardrobe was filled with colorful Hawaiian shirts. A connoisseur of words, he enjoyed writing and world building, creating elaborate stories often featuring his friends and loved ones. While his friends are spread around the country, Ben loved staying in contact with them however he could, and did his best to be the “glue” and gather them together for fun and board games. He was always there for his friends and family, although he would have been too humble to say as much. In his spare time, Ben kept sharp by assembling and displaying building sets, solving puzzles in video games, and even helping his family with their own word puzzle games. Despite his claims of hating word puzzle games, Ben was quite good at them. 

Words alone do not adequately describe Ben; although, if anyone was able to do so, it would have been Ben. Put simply, Ben was the kind of person who enriched your life by simply knowing him, and he is, and will forever be, sorely missed. 

Benjamin is survived by his parents, Lawrence and Elizabeth Ranes; and his siblings, Christopher (Phylicia) of Zion and Meghan of Round Lake.

A memorial visitation and service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, July 27, 2024 from 3pm until 4pm, with a memorial service commencing at 4pm.  Interment will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association in honor of Benjamin.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org

Jeanette “Jan” Margaret Swanson

Jeanette “Jan” Margaret Swanson (nee Haag), 88, born June 18, 1936 in Chicago, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family on July 12, 2024. 

Jan was an extremely kind, caring and giving person who was an inspiration to all. She enjoyed playing Mahjong, Bunco and cards with her friends, and loved reading, being involved at church and gardening (with some roses from her childhood home).  Jan looked forward to her many travels with family and friends and was excited to accomplish her goal of visiting all 50 states in the U.S.  More than anything she loved spending time with her husband, children, grandchildren and sisters.

Jan was a graduate of St. Benedict High School’s charter class in Chicago and still kept in touch with her classmates. She went on to have a career as an HR benefits administrator and at the age of 54 earned her bachelor’s degree from DePaul University.  Jan’s legacy will carry on with her published book, Haag Heritage.

Beloved wife of 57 years to the late Clayton Ernest “Ernie” Swanson, proud mother of Karen (Phil) Caplis, Jim (Julie), Don (Barb), Bill (Anne) and Mary (Craig) Meyer; cherished grandmother of Michelle (Jeff Stanicz) Swanson, Rachel (Anthony) Belmonte, Eric and Katie Caplis, Mark, Luke, Nate, Matt, Nicole Swanson, Kelly and Kevin Meyer,  dear sister of Suzanne “Sue” (the late Ronald) Heinzel and the late Mary Ann “Mickie” Haag; dear aunt of many nieces and nephews.  In addition to her late husband and sister, she was preceded in death by her father Peter Haag, mother Margaret (Arens) Haag, and stepmother Lorraine (Steffen) Haag.

Visitation is scheduled for Friday, July 19, 2024 from 4pm until 8pm at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd. (Rte 120) Grayslake, IL 60030. A Mass and celebration of her life will be held Saturday, July 20, 2024 at 11am at St. Mary of Annunciation Catholic Church, 22333 W. Erhart Rd., Mundelein, IL. Interment will follow at St. Mary Cemetery located next to the church.  Memorial contributions may be given to a charity of your choice. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.  

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/NYD2D932QHHB4PRM

Carl P. Pharr

Carl P. Pharr of Grayslake, recently passed away and is now with his beloved wife of 47 years; Patricia M. Pharr (Scanlon). He leaves behind a legacy of dedication and love. Born on August 28th, 1939, he lived a life full of adventure and purpose. A proud veteran who served his country in the United State Navy for twenty years. Carl was preceded in death by his parents Thelma and Julius. He will be remembered and sadly missed by his children; Robert John (Janette) Pharr and Kimberly Ann (Chris) Pitej. Four grandchildren ; Jessica Daughton (Walls), Payton Daughton (Carmer) , Stone Daughton and Shannon Grace Pharr (his little flower), and four great grandchildren, a dear sister Bobbi Jean Cohen, and brother David Charles Pharr, and host of nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers Carl has asked that contributions be made to any institution or Medical organization supporting the workers who care for depressed or abused children.

A private service will be held in honor of Carl’s life at Strang Funeral Chapel, with burial to follow at Highland Memorial Park Cemetery.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Richard I. MacDuff

Richard Ivan MacDuff passed away in the early hours of July 13, 2024 at home, surrounded by his loved ones.  Richard was born on July 1,1956 at St. Anne’s Hospital in Chicago, IL to his parents Richard and Rose MacDuff.

Rich is survived by his mother, Rose MacDuff; his son, Ronald (Molly O’Roark) MacDuff; his siblings, Robert MacDuff, Roger (Anne) MacDuff, and Rosanne (Jim) Sledz; his nieces and nephews, Richard (Skylar Johnson), Allyson, and Henry Sledz; Michael, Sean (Laura), Lauren, and Kate MacDuff; and, Daniel and Kevin MacDuff and Jennifer (Brian) O’Byrne.  He was preceded in death by his father, Richard MacDuff; his brother, Ronald MacDuff; and his daughter, Marisa MacDuff.

Rich grew up with his three brothers and his sister in both Illinois and Delaware.  As the oldest of five, Rich always looked out for his younger siblings.  He was fortunate to have a large, close-knit extended family, forming many lifelong bonds.  While growing up Rich could often be found playing the guitar, swimming, or rebuilding a car engine with his father.  Rich’s father shared his love and knowledge of mechanics with Rich.  Side-by-side they rebuilt the engine to Rich’s first motorcycle and VW Bug.

Rich was a hard worker his entire life.  He got his first job bussing tables at Perkins Pancake House when he was 14 years old.  Rich was a man of many talents.  He was a machinist, a master carpenter, a livestock broker at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, an expert in everything retail, and a business owner.  He owned and operated the Red Rooster in Arlington Heights, Illinois, across the street from the old Arlington Racetrack, for five years.  He spent the last years of his life working as a store planning specialist at the Innovation Center at Walgreens, where he enjoyed several close friendships.

Rich’s greatest joy in life came in fatherhood.  His two children, Ronnie and Marisa, were truly the light of his life.  Rich took great pride in his children and always had videos and pictures readily available to help tell the stories of their accomplishments.

One of Rich’s defining qualities was his passion for what he loved, whether that be his family, his favorite music, or sports. He loved watching a game with his family or having a day out by the pool with a drink, listening to his favorite songs.  Rich was an early riser and loved nature.  He tried to identify every bird, mammal, and reptile that he spied in the backyard.

He was an engaged listener – if you had something new in your life or an interest to share with him, he wanted to not only hear about it, but learn about it too.

The ease with which Rich could enjoy life’s simplest pleasures was infectious. He loved a good book, an entertaining B movie, science fiction, space exploration and research, an ice-cold Bud Light, and a fresh peanut butter cookie.  He especially loved watching Marvel movies with his son and daughter-in-law, and football, college or pro, with his family.

Rich’s priority in his life was his family.  During the final eight years of his life, Rich lived with family members spanning three generations.  Rich excelled as a son, a brother (including in-law) and uncle in his loving, if crazy, household every day.  He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who loved him.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Rich’s memory may be made to a fund for his beloved nephew, Daniel MacDuff.  Donations can be made either by Venmo (@Bernadettesons) or mail (Bernadette Sons, 114 W Talcott Road, Park Ridge, IL 60068).  Any questions can be directed to Bernadette Sons at b.sons729@gmail.com.

Joseph E. Mazzie

Joseph E. Mazzie, 53, a resident of Wildwood, IL, passed away on July 15, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born December 24, 1970 in Chicago, IL.

Joseph was loved by many and  he will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Joseph is survived by his loving wife Colleen Mazzie, his son Ryan, his parents George and Rose Robbins, cherished brother of Carrie (Tom) Abrams,  brother in law to Chris (Missy), Tim (Amy) , fond uncle of Brian (Haley), Kelli, Holly, Graham, and Eden, and  great uncle to Bentley and Lincoln. 

A visitation is scheduled for Thursday July 18, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 10:00am until 2:00pm. A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday July 18,2024 at 2:00 PM.   All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/96H6KNZ2R63M64J9

Viktoria Golkosky

Viktoria Golkosky, 69, a resident of Grayslake, IL passed away July 13, 2024 at Advocate Condell Hospital I Libertyville, IL.  She was born November 12,1954 in Roznava Slovakia to Jan and Alzbeta (Tencova) Brostak.

Viki was kind, generous, patient, caring, giving, full of life and funny. She brightened up anY room she walked in. She loved children, especially her three grandchildren , Tunde, Reka and Mason, and she was passionate about teaching them both in Europe and here in the US. When she was younger, Viki loved to be in nature and enjoyed hiking and skiing. More recently, she loved talking with friends, listening to favorite songs, and spending time with family.

Viktoria is survived by her husband of 26 years, Joseph Golkosky, whom she wed on March 21, 1998, her children Eduard (Natalia) Breuer, and Lucia Breuer, her grandchildren Tunde Breuer, Reka Breuer, and Mason Breuer. She was preceded in death by her parents.

A visitation is scheduled for Wednesday July 17, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. A funeral service is scheduled for Thursday July 18,2024 at 10:00 AM.   All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view Viki’s memorial tribute video: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/X3Q5SSFXK85W6T4K

Mildred Ann Lee

Mildred Ann Lee, 85, a resident of Waukegan, IL, passed away July 6, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  She was born February 4, 1939 in Matoaka, WV to Eldridge and Savannah Vines.

Mildred loved gardening, reading, and hosting family gatherings.

Mildred is survived by her children Debbie (Bill) Vanderborg of Grayslake and Jim (Vicki) Lee of Kenosha, her 9 grandchildren, her 7 great-grandchildren, and her siblings Dathenal Beckner Princeton, WV and Parthena Walton of Grayslake, IL.  She was preceded in death by her husband of 67 years, James H. Lee, her brother Samuel Vines, and her parents Eldridge and Savannah Vines.

All funeral arrangements were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Gwendolyn Rowe-Hall

Gwendolyn Rowe-Hall, age 81, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away on July 1, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL. She was born on April 16, 1943 in Jamaica. Gwendolyn is preceded in death by her Mother and Father Norman Rowe and Beatrice Dixon as well as 9 siblings that she loved dearly. Gwendolyn leaves behind an abundantly large loving family. Timothy M. Boppart and Strafford K. Hall. Although divorced she remained friends with them both until her last day with us. Her children include Donna M. Phifer, Michell N. Williams, Lawrence A. Hall, and Christina M. Hall. Her Grandchildren include Trent I.J. Phifer, Nicolas L. Williams, Melissa G. Phifer, Jordan J. Williams, Malcolm M. Williams, Cortessa L. Witherspoon, Lisa M. Hall, and Guinevere Hicks. Her Great-Grandchildren include Braxton L. Williams, Makeda J. Phifer, Brennan H. Williams, Olivia Jean Williams, and Amelia A. Williams. Gwendolyn has many extended family members who love her and will miss her greatly. Including her nephew Kofi Nerumah-Young and nieces Marie Brutus and Simone Clark. The Newhouse family John and Terry Newhouse and their children Jack Newhouse Hawley Becks and Andrew Newhouse. Gwendolyn was the core of her family there are no words that can express how much she will be missed. She looked forward to the holiday, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas.  It gave her much joy to decorate her table in anticipation of the meal that her loved ones could reminisce about. Gwendolyn’s heart was abundant, of anyone in her life who needed her she was right there.  She was intentional about everything she did. That beautiful trait showed in every aspect of her life. Her work ethic was second to none, her love for her family gave her that drive. Every year while able to travel her children and grandchildren looked forward to the trips she would plan. Road trips that could never be forgotten and destinations that created a lifetime of beautiful memories. One of her greatest joys was making sure her grandchildren saw as much of the world as she could. She had a passion for adventure and was a daredevil at heart. She knew people through and through and would tell friends about the good she saw in every children and grandchildren.

A memorial visitation and service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, July 20, 2024 from 12pm until 1pm, with a funeral service beginning at 1pm. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/GNDB6KDDLMBY9NNZ

Mary Therese Jermalowicz

Mary Therese Jermalowicz, 90, a resident of North Chicago, IL, passed away July 7, 2024 at Village of Victory Lakes in Lindenhurst, IL.  Mary was born October 4, 1933 in North Chicago, IL to Andrew and Mary Jermalowicz. 

Mary retired from AT&T/Illinois Bell after more than 30 years of employment.  She was a member of the Illinois Bell Pioneers and enjoyed volunteering at the North Chicago VA Hospital.  Mary enjoyed hiking, sewing, knitting, crafting, and Tae Kwon Do.

Mary is survived by her brother Dennis (Pat) Jermolowicz, her nieces and nephews Ann (Craig) Vogel, Andrew (Lavinia) Jermolowicz, Nancy Jermolowicz, and Mark (Sandra) Jermolowicz, her great-nephew, her 2 great-nieces, and her 2 great-great-nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Rose Ann Jermalowicz, and her nephew Dennis Paul Jermolowicz. 

A visitation and funeral mass are scheduled for Thursday, July 11, 2024 at St. Gilbert Catholic Church 301 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 9:00am until 10:00am with the mass commencing at 10:00am.  Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. To live stream the mass click here: https://youtube.com/channel/UCMP0PFhS_wyXxgsTzbPEEyw. A celebration of life mass will also be held in the fall.  All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information, please log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Shirley S. McRoy

Shirley S. McRoy, age 86, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away on July 7, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  She was born on December 11, 1937 in Woodstock, IL to John and Eleanor (nee Stenberg) Peters.  She was a long-time bookkeeper and personal assistant. 

Shirley is survived by her brother, David (Judy) Peters; her nieces and nephews, Dr. Kathleen (Rob) Harder, Kristy (Pat) McCreight, and Dan (Dana) Peters; and her sister-in-law, Kathy McRoy Dohr.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Lloyd “Mac” McRoy; and brother, Jack Peters.

A memorial visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Tuesday, July 16, 2024 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. A memorial service will be held at the funeral chapel on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at 11:00am.  Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Save-A-Pet, https://www.saveapetil.org/give-online/  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Charles “Chuck” Huber

Charles “Chuck” Huber, 82, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2024, in Grayslake, IL, after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Born on March 10, 1942, in Chicago, Chuck grew up in Spring Grove, where he spent many childhood hours on the Chain of Lakes, fostering a lifelong love of fishing.

Since the 1970’s, Chuck had been a well-known barber in the Round Lake area, owning and operating Chuck’s Family Hair Care for most of those years.  He was known for his kindness, infectious laughter, and dedication to his craft, family, and friends.

In his leisure time, Chuck enjoyed fishing and playing card games.  His friends and family remember him as a man who brought joy and laughter to everyone he met.

Chuck was predeceased by his father Charles Huber (1980), his mother Emily Huber (1984), and his beloved wife Donna Huber (2010).  He is survived by his sons David Huber, Christopher Huber, Ed Giesen, his grandchildren Logan, Cameron, and Olivia Huber, and his good friend and companion Roxie Bueschel. 

A visitation and a service to honor and celebrate Chuck’s life will take place on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 10:00am until 12:00pm with the service commencing at 12:00pm.  Interment will follow the service at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Chuck’s memory to support Alzheimer’s research or a charity of your choice.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122. 

Barbara J. Hacker

Barbara Jean Hacker, 80, of Mount Pleasant, WI, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on July 1, 2024. Barbara was born in Miami, FL on October 16, 1943 to Charles and Lorraine Gunther. They moved to Mt. Prospect, IL where she would eventually graduate from Mt. Prospect High School in 1960. She met her future husband, Larry Hacker, in 1961 and they were married on November 2, 1963.  In 1973 they settled in Grayslake, IL, where they raised their two children and resided for 50 years until Larry’s passing in 2023. Barbara was a stay-at-home Mom who loved her family, wildlife, gardening, movies, but most of all, getting together with loved ones.

She is survived by her loving children Dan (Jennie) Hacker, Laura Bonadona, and 4 grandchildren- Jon (Sam) Bonadona, Nick Bonadona (Megan May), Melissa Hacker (Quinten Novak) and Allison Hacker. She is also survived by her loving in-laws: Barbara (Ken) Danielczyk, Marge Weigand, Dale (Pam) Weigand, Sue (Jack) Pruden, Charlie Harrison and many nieces and nephews. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband Larry, her parents, and her sister Peggy Ann.

A celebration of Barbara’s life is planned for Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 East Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL. Visitation will be from 11:00am –1:00pm with a brief prayer service at 1:00pm. Anyone wishing to honor Barbara’s life may donate to Blackdog All Breed Rescue in her memory (www.blackdogallbreedrescue.com) or your local animal shelter. For more information, please call (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Patricia M. Costabile

Patricia M. Costabile, 72, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 23, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  She was born January 25, 1952 in Evanston, IL to Leroy and Janice Blinn.

Patricia loved raising her West Highland Terriers.

Patricia is survived by her husband of 45 years, Anthony Costabile, her sister Kathy Lee (Jeff) Issel, and her sisters-in-law Marie DeCaesar and Sandra Starky.  She was preceded in death by her parents and her aunt Marjorie Rakos.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Ray “Nick” Thomas Nicholas Jr.

Ray “Nick” Thomas Nicholas, Jr., 70, a resident of Ingleside, IL, passed away June 21, 2024 at Northwestern McHenry Hospital in McHenry, IL.  He was born June 28, 1953 in Waukegan, IL to Ray Sr. and Willadene Nicholas.

Nick is survived by his childhood sweetheart, his wife of 50 years, Debra Nicholas, whom he wed on August 25, 1973 in Mundelein, IL, his children Amber (Jeff) Zei and Ryan Nicholas, his grandchildren James Grace and Laura Grace, and his sister Gayle Bohne.  He was preceded in death by his parents Ray Sr. and Willadene Nicholas, and his sister Sally Martens. 

Nick was a faithfully loving husband, an exceptional dad, and a fun-`loving grandpa. His devotion to his wife was an example to all. His creativity and big ideas made for fun childhoods for both his kids and grandkids. The title of Dad and Grandpa weren’t limited to them, as he was a father figure to many, and was well-known as “Grandpa Nick” to the kids’ friend groups.

Nick was a long-time resident of Grayslake, heavily involved in 4H and Boy Scouts, taking his first job as the neighborhood paper boy. He was small-town famous at 10 years of age, when he built an electric go kart with his dad. The wheels didn’t stop turning for him, as he continued to tinker and take on hobbies like antique restoration and making stained glass windows. With his invention of the Cutter’s Mate glass cutter in 1995, he began building what is now Creator’s brand, the family business. After 30 years of working for Imperial Crane as an oiler, he was able to retire and completely pour himself into this family business, which has expanded to include a diverse array of hobby tools.

Nick was actively involved in his church and had a knack for teaching children with his wife Debbie for over 25 years. His creativity made for amazing details for plays and events, whether it was gigantic planets hanging from the ceilings or a miniature roller coaster complete with flashing lights on the stage for Vacation Bible School. His stained glass artwork still hangs in the windows at Living Waters Church.

Nick always thought big, and his heart was even bigger. He was a friend to all who met him–gentle, humble, and incredibly funny. He showed the love of God through the way he lived his life and treated others, and he will be deeply missed.

A visitation is scheduled for Friday, June 28, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm.  A funeral service is scheduled for Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Living Waters Church 525 N. Atkinson Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 at 10:30am.  The burial will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to College of the Ozarks https://www.cofo.edu/Development . Nick appreciated this college for its dedication to developing students to be of Christ-like character, skilled in a trade, hard working and patriotic. He visited to donate and demo his tools for the stained glass department there for the last three years.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/YDWRQSCC4PC3DW4F

Berta “Bea” L. Fitzgerald

Berta “Bea” L. Fitzgerald , 81, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 11, 2024 at Condell Hospital in Libertyville, IL. She born January 22, 1943 in Riga, Latvia to Leo and Vera Libigs.

Bea is survived by her husband of 59 years Gerry Fitzgerald, her children, Kimberly (David) Anthony, Christine (Patrick) Albright, and Kevin Fitzgerald, her 9 grandchildren, Tony Loiacono, Erik Flores, Rebecca (Neil) Coulliard, Drew Loiacano, Steph Flores, Samantha Albright, Samantha Anthony, Grace Albright, and Avery Fitzgerald,  her siblings Laila (Don) Adams, Ina Libigs, Udo (Gloria) Libigs, Lora Colby, Al (Vicky) Libigs, Aelita Brown, Leo (Kathy) Libigs, and Yvette (Mark) Honey. Bea was preceded in death by her parents Leo and Vera Libigs, and her brother Ralf Libigs.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Lee A. Zielonka

Lee A. Zielonka, age 68, a resident of Grayslake, IL passed away on May 25, 2024 at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago, IL.  He was born on February 22, 1956 in Chicago, IL to Rose Ackerman and John Zielonka. Lee loved to ride his three-wheel motorcycle every Sunday in the summer.

Lee is survived by his wife of 48 years, Nancy, whom he married on November 15, 1975; his children, Adam (Ava) Zielonka and Katie (Brandon) Borre; his grandchildren, Eli Zielonka, Olin Zielonka, and Ellie Borre; his brother, Ronald (Helen) Harrison; his nieces, Brandie Harrison, and Patty (John) Fitzsimmons, Jennifer (Todd) Gwaltney; his nephew Nathan (Natalie) Chevaliar; and great niece and nephew, Brady and Mia Fitzsimmons Addison and Michael Gwaltney; and brothers-in-law, Gil and Larry (Vicky) Adams.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald Harrison, Lynne Adams, and Joan Chevaliar.

A memorial visitation and service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 11am until 1pm, with a funeral service commencing at 1pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

John T. Pedigo

John Thomas Pedigo passed away peacefully at home on June 10th, 2024 at the age of 78.  John was born November 18th, 1945 in Chicago, Illinois.  He attended St. Alphonsus Catholic School. His family later moved to Wildwood, IL and he graduated from Warren Township High School in 1963. John was drafted into the Army in 1966 and served two years including a deployment to South Korea.  John later worked with mainframe computers and business software programs. These became obsolete over time with advancing technology and he took on various jobs going forward. 

In his healthier days, John enjoyed gardening and spending his time at Marytown in Mundelein, as he was a devout Catholic. He also was proud of his Irish heritage and one of his fondest memories was traveling to Ireland with his sister Mary years ago.  John entered hospice care in early 2023, and his brother-in-law, Bill, cared for him in the home. 

John is preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Isabelle Pedigo, and his sister Mary Herholz. He is survived by his brother-in-law, William Herholz, his nephew Shaun Herholz(Andreea) and his niece Cheryl Thackrey(Brian). Additionally, John is survived by two great nephews Elias and Evan, and two great nieces, Edelweiss and Katelyn. 

Wake and Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 18th at St. Gilbert Church 301 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL. Wake will be at 10 a.m. and Funeral Mass following at 11 a.m. Burial will take place on Friday, July 5th at 12 p.m. at Abraham Lincoln Cemetery in Elwood, IL. 

All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.