Barbara J. Mikolitis, 85, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 9, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  She was born October 23, 1938 in Chicago, IL to William and Bernadette Starvel.

Barbara was an avid poker player and enjoyed travelling.  She was a wonderful aunt, godmother, grandma, GiGi., and a truly strong and loving mom.

Barbara is survived by her children Peter A. (Sharon) Mikolitis II, Laurie (Mike) Donovan, Julie (the late Ray) Johnson, and Mark Mikolitis, her grandchildren Abigail Mikolitis, Hailey Mikolitis, Peter A. Mikolitis III, Ryan (Samantha) Donovan, Lauren (Kevin) Ruta, Jillian (Sean) Canevari, Taylor Johnson, Emma (Evan) Bright, and Samantha (Jake) Mikolitis-Helder, and her great-grandchildren Brayden, Lela, Caleb and Ayden.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Peter A. Mikolitis, and her brother Robert V. Starvel DDS.

A visitation and funeral mass are scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 2024 at St. Paul the Apostle 6401 Gages Lake Rd. Gurnee, IL 60031 from 8:30am until 9:30am with the mass commencing at 9:30am.  Interment will be held privately.   In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.  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.

To view livestream of the service click here: https://www.youtube.com/live/z-FU36fipGo?si=zqHz0mBHEZe6fiOT

Jochen “Joe” Schorler, 87, a resident of Lindenhurst, IL, passed away June 8, 2024 at his home. He was born July 24, 1936 in Erfurt, Germany to Kurt Bruno Hans Schorler and Elizabeth Frieda Thekla Graubner. 

Joe immigrated to the United States in 1959 and moved to Elgin, IL.  He was drafted into the United States Army in 1961.  Joe married Judy Rosquist in 1967 and celebrated 57 years of marriage.  Joe was an electrician by trade; he celebrated 55 years with the local IBEW 117.  Joe loved to fish and spent summers and fall fishing in the Upper Peninsula and Canada.  In his retirement, Joe traveled to all 7 continents with Judy.

Joe is survived by his wife, Judy Lee Schorler, his sister-in-law Renate Schorler, and his many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant child, his brother Manfred Schorler, his brothers-in-law Edward, John, and Walton Rosquist and his sisters-in-law Norie, Deanna, and Diane Rosquist.

All funeral arrangements were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030.

Emily Lois Gallo, 81, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 8, 2024 at her home.  She was born July 27, 1942 in Cicero, IL to Richard and Helen Larson.

On September 26^th, 1964, she married Anthony Gallo, the love of her life. They lived in Schaumburg and raised three boys. On December 16^th, 1977, Anthony lost his life in the line of duty while working with the Schaumburg Fire Department. Emily remained in the village until 1992, when she moved to Mundelein. In 1997, she moved to Lindenhurst and in 2004 to Grayslake where she met many friends.

Emily loved spending time with family. After her boys married, she cherished having “daughters” and after that, nine wonderful grandchildren, whom she adored. They referred to her as “Bubba”, and she was excited about becoming a great grandmother in October. She loved attending all their sporting events, activities & ceremonies and was well known to all of her grandchildren’s friends and their families.

Emily is survived by her sons Michael (Amy) Gallo, Richard (Linda) Gallo, and Kevin (Kim) Gallo, her grandchildren Tony, Ellie (AJ), Megan, Kori, Hannah (Nick), Ryan, Jackie, Torie, and Rob, her sister Karen Larson, her brother Richard Larson, and nine nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her sister Helen Larson, her sisters-in-law Anita Larson & Tina Krejcik, and her brother-in-law Bud Krejcik.

A visitation is scheduled for Friday, June 14, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm.  The funeral mass is scheduled for Saturday, June 15, 2024 at Santa Maria del Popolo 116 N. Lake St. Mundelein, IL 60060 at 10:00am.  Interment will follow the services at St. Joseph Cemetery in River Grove, IL.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

In lieu of flowers, donations may in Emily’s name made be made to the Susan G. Komen Cancer Foundation.

Vicki Lynn Sparrow, age 72, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away on June 7, 2024 at her home.  She was born June, 4, 1952 in Kankakee, IL to Charles and Gloria Pierson.

Vicki is survived by her husband, Albert of 45 years whom  he married on April 14, 1979 in Kankakee; her daughter, Gloria Sparrow of Lakemoor, her step children, Jeffrey Sparrow of Champaign and Cathy Christensen of West Dundee; her grandson, Kellen Herspold of Lakemoor; her step grandchildren, Kyle Christensen of West Dundee, Kelly Christensen of West Dundee, Cody Christensen of West Dundee, Mya Sparrow of Dongola; her siblings, Julie Leary of Morris, Lana Schmitz of Kankakee, David (Delores) Pierson of Kankakee, and Dan (Karen) Pierson of Bourbonnais.  She was preceded in death by her parents. 

A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 from 4pm until 8pm.  A funeral service will be held at the funeral chapel on Thursday, June 13, 2024 at 11am.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or www.StrangFuneral.org.

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/WHWRT6YBX237T64R

Thomas Arthur Lee, 66, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 5, 2024 at his home in Grayslake, IL.  He was born November 30, 1957 in Milwaukee, WI to Patrick and Barbara Lee.

Thomas was a veteran having served for the US Navy and achieved the rank of 1^st Class Petty Officer as a GSE1 Master Training Specialist.  He was an avid Packer fan and enjoyed fishing.  Thomas was a family man, adored his grandkids, and loved and honored his wife and best friend.

Thomas is survived by his wife of 40 years, Debbie Lee, whom he wed on December 23, 1983 in Lake Geneva, WI, his mother Barbara Lee, his children Aaron (Karli) Lee of Lindenhurst, IL and Bryce Lee of Lombard, IL, his grandchildren Vanna Lee and Ryder Lee both of Lindenhurst, IL, and his siblings Jim (Terri) Lee of Cave Creek, AZ and Cynthia Lee of Wisconsin.  He was preceded in death by his father Patrick Lee, and his mother-in-law Janet Clayton.

A memorial visitation is scheduled for June 14, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 3:00pm until 5:00pm with the memorial service commencing at 5:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/L3TXRB7J4NL4JF8L

Richard R. Quinn 71, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away May 31, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born May 4, 1953 in Evanston, IL to Clarence and Dolores Quinn.

Richard grew up in Lake Zurich and was a member of the 1971 graduating class of Lake Zurich High School.  He attended Western Illinois University where he met his wife, Susan.  Richard retired from Zebra Technologies after 24 years as a Cost Accountant and International Implementation Manger.  He was a loving father to his 3 sons and 3 grandchildren.  He was a lifelong fishing enthusiast and enjoyed fishing with family on Lake Quinn.  

Richard is survived by his wife, Susan nee Bordenkircher, his children Nicholas (Brittany) Quinn, Eric (Kimberly Quinn, and Patrick Quinn, his grandchildren Alec, Shannon, and Autumn, and his brother Brian Quinn.

There will be a private celebration of life at a later time.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Gary Sedlacko, 68, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away June 6, 2024 surrounded by his family, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born January 31, 1956 in Streator, IL to Stephen and Julia (nee: Yedinak) Sedlacko.

Gary and his twin brother, Greg, were the fourth and fifth of six boys. The majority of Gary’s brothers lived locally throughout their adulthood, so holidays were typically large, loud gatherings. 

He received a degree in Education from Northern Illinois University in 1978 where he was a member of the Marching Band. Playing euphonium, Gary traveled throughout the country to play in competitions, parades, and sporting events. He always cherished his memories of their yearly trip to New Orleans, though the details were unsurprisingly fuzzy. The opportunity to play the halftime show at the Rose Bowl was the highlight of his playing career.

Gary taught middle school for one year before changing careers to work in the emerging computer and technology industry. He taught himself computing and programming on his way to becoming a Systems Engineer.  The early days of computing were full of challenges, which Gary relished solving until his retirement in 2002.

As a young man, he was passionate about sailing on the Chain of Lakes and his yearly trip to the British Virgin Islands. He joined Sitzmark Ski Club in 1979 and over many years was very active in the club.  He helped organize events like rafting trips to Crivitz, a yearly pig roast, and MS walks, forging life-long friendships all the while. And once in a great while he may have actually skied!  

Once retired, he revived his love of music and joined the Round Lake Area Community Band, performing in many local area concerts. Playing the same instrument as his sons, they had the pleasure of playing together in holiday concerts and Tuba Christmas.

Most of all, Gary loved being around his family, spending time with his wife and two sons. He and Tari entertained two rambunctious boys and their neighborhood friends by day, and relaxed on their patio by night.  He especially treasured their yearly retreat to the cabin at Afterglow Lake.

Gary became a grandfather late last year. His excitement and love for his granddaughter, Elliot, was immeasurable.

Gary is survived by his wife of 35 years, Teresa Sedlacko, whom he wed on September 17, 1989 in Prospect Heights, IL, his children Christopher (Jamie) Sedlacko of Wheaton, IL and Joseph Sedlacko of Chicago, IL, his granddaughter Elliot Sedlacko of Wheaton, IL, and his siblings Stephen Sedlacko, Allen (the late Alice) Sedlacko, Edwin (Nancy) Sedlacko, Greg (Barb) Sedlacko, and Neal (the late Debbie) Sedlacko.  

A visitation is scheduled for Monday, June 10, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/PS7KFSZN5RF6RGXL

Freddie Aranda, age 34, a resident of Round Lake Park, IL, passed away on June 4, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born on November 17, 1989 in Waukegan, IL to Maria Carmen Jacobo and Ascencion Aranda.

Se llevará a cabo un velorio en Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 el domingo 9 de junio de 2024 de 4 p.m. a 8 p.m.  Se llevará a cabo un funeral en la capilla funeraria el lunes 10 de junio de 2024 a las 11 a.m.  El entierro tendrá lugar en el cementerio Avon Center, 21300 W Shorewood Road, Grayslake, IL 60030.

A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Sunday, June 9, 2024 from 4pm until 8pm.  A funeral service will be held at the funeral chapel on Monday, June 10, 2024 at 11am.  Burial will take place at Avon Centre Cemetery, 21300 W Shorewood Road, Grayslake, IL 60030.

Donald Drew Chatten, 61, of Racine, formerly of Grayslake, passed away at his residence on Saturday, June 1, 2024. He was born in Park Forest, Illinois on August 23, 1962, the son of Daniel Franklin and Joan Louise (nee Anderson) Chatten. Don received his bachelor’s degree from Winona State University and had a successful career in sales. Don enjoyed fishing, golfing, cycling, and grilling. He was a lifelong Blackhawks, Cubs, and Bears fan and could be found watching the games any day of the week, particularly in his garage.

Surviving are his three children, Kevin Chatten of Oak Creek, Wisconsin, Erin Chatten (Christopher Schweitzer) of Buffalo Grove, Illinois, and Colin Chatten of Manhattan, New York; his mother, Joan Chatten, of Arlington Heights, Illinois; brother, Andrew (Lori) Chatten, of Maple Park, Illinois; nephew, Jeff (Shannon) Chatten of Birmingham, Alabama; and niece, Alison Chatten of Holland, Michigan. Don was preceded in death by his father, Daniel, and his dog, Boomer.

A memorial visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, June 15, 2024 from 4pm until 7pm.  For more information, please call (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org. 

Hildagard M. Zentner, 86, a resident of Round Lake Beach, passed away June 2, 2024 at Hillcrest Nursing Home in Round Lake Beach.  She was born May 29, 1938 in Yugoslavia to Heinrich and Leni Blassman.

Hildagard enjoyed playing dominos, spending time at the Senior Center, and shopping at garage sales.

Hildagard is survived by her daughters Susan (Emil Marquardt) Zentner and Linda (Larry) Brooks, her grandchildren Christine (Martin) Harris, Lauren Brooks, Joseph Brooks, Caleb Lapinskas, and Ryan Lapinskas, her great-grandson Ian Harris, and her sister Josie Georg.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joseph Zentner, and her daughter Nancy Lapinskas.

A memorial visitation and service are scheduled for June 11, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 2:00pm until 3:00pm with the service commencing at 3:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact 847-223-8122.

Sandra D. Callahan, 90, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on April 25, 2024 at Valley Regional Medical Center in Kent, Washington.  She was born December 15, 1933 in Chicago, IL to Sander and Dorothy (nee: Rooke) Swanson.

Sandra grew up in Round Lake Beach and was a member of the first graduating class of Grayslake Community High School.  She attended Northern Illinois Teachers College, where she was a cheerleader and met her husband John, a basketball player.  A long-time resident of Grayslake, she was a Teacher’s Aide at Woodview Elementary for many years.  She was a loving mother to her three sons and a loving aunt to her nieces and nephew.  Sandra also enjoyed a decades long friendship with Tony and Jo Scardino, formerly of Round Lake, and their children.  She was a fan of Northwestern University and the University of Wisconsin, which her sons attended, and was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers.

Sandra is survived by her children Kevin John (Patricia) Callahan of Alpharetta, GA, William Sander Callahan of Cumming, GA, Sean Edward (Cynthia) Callahan of Hobart, WA, her grandchildren William Harris Callahan of Atlanta, GA, Kevin Andrew Callahan of Alpharetta, GA, Mary Jacob Callahan of Chicago, IL, Abigail (Brandon) Yow of Hoover, AL, Mitchell C. Dean of Brooklyn, NY, and Katie J. Callahan of Hobart, WA, her 5 great-grandchildren, and her nieces and nephew Lynn (nee: Pahlman) Stilley of Iron River, MI, Tammy (nee: Pahlman) Cable of Fox Lake, IL and Sander Pahlman of Markeson, WI.  She was preceded in death by her husband John E. Callahan, her parents Sander and Dorothy (nee: Rooke) Swanson, her sister Beverly Swanson Pahlman, and her infant daughter Kimberly A. Callahan.

A memorial visitation and service will be held on June 8, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 9:00am until 11:00am with the service commencing at 11:00am.  Internment was privately held at Avon Centre Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library www.imaginationlibrary.com.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122

Mark E. Gnarro, 67, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away May of 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born July of 1956 in Libertyville to Edward and Gloria Gnarro.

Mark was a veteran having served with the United States Marine Corps.  He graduated from North Park University and was an accomplished drummer.

Mark is survived by his loving companion Dona Jean Behner, his cousins Darlene G. Durling and Gary L. Durling.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers Mithcell and Steven.

A visitation will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information please log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

In Loving Memory of Brian: Educator, Leader, Coach, Mentor

Brian J. Rogers, 59, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away May 23, 2024 at his home.  He was born July 8, 1964 to Robert and Dolores Rogers in Park Ridge, IL.

With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Brian (Bri, Rog, BRog) a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many. Brian was not just an educator, but a leader, coach, and mentor whose impact extended far beyond the classroom. His dedication to guiding and inspiring others left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A sports enthusiast through and through, Brian’s passion for the Cubs, Bears, and Duhawks was infectious. His unwavering support for his teams mirrored the steadfast support he provided to his family, friends, students, and colleagues. Brian’s love for sports was only surpassed by his love for his family, who brought him immense joy and fulfillment. His boys were his pride and joy.

In his moments of leisure, Brian found solace in fishing, golfing, and bird-watching. Nature was his sanctuary, and he cherished the peace and tranquility it offered him. Whether casting a line into the water, shaving off a few strokes off of his golf score, or marveling at the beauty of birds in flight, Brian found serenity in these simple pleasures.

Though Brian may no longer walk among us, his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he touched. His wisdom, kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering support will forever be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to have known him. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration during this difficult time.

Rest in peace, Brian. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy of love and guidance will endure for generations to come.

Brian is survived by his wife of 30 years, Socorro, his mother Dolores Rogers, his sons Michael Rogers and Daniel Rogers, and his siblings John (Marisa Calvi-Rogers) Rogers and Joan Schmidt.  He was preceded in death by his father Robert Rogers and his brother Edward Rogers.

A memorial visitation and service are scheduled for June 1, 2024 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 3:00pm until 6:00pm with the service commencing at 6:00pm.   For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/H8MBNWQMWK38SY86

Victoria Libelia Lasso, age 90, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away on May 23, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on December 12, 1933 in Ecuador.

Victoria is survived by her children, Cecilia Knopfhart, Carlos Lasso, Mariana Lasso, Raul Lasso, Elena Lasso, Patricia Lopez, Maurico Lasso, Giovanni Lasso, and Liz Vazquez; her 23 grandchildren; and her 28 great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Adolfo Lasso; her son, Guillermo Lasso; and granddaughter, Fernanda Valdez.

A visitation and funeral service will be held at Lakeland Church, 440 N Hunt Club Road, Gurnee, IL 60031 on Saturday, May 25, 2024 from 9am until 11am with a funeral service commencing at 11am.  Interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.  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. 

Herbert S. Ardell III, 91, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away May 21, 2024 at his home.  He was born July 1, 1932 in Williamsport, PA to Herbert and Kathryn Ardell.

He grew up in Marlinton, WV.  After high School he joined the U.S. Army and served as a paratrooper in the 82^nd Airborne.  In 1964 he began work in the computer operations department at A.B. Dick Company in Niles, IL.  He retired in 1994 after a 30-year career. He was an avid photographer and enjoyed genealogy.

Herbert is survived by his children Ross (Caroline) Ardell, Stacy (Robert) Hall, Doug (Nancy) Ardell, and David (Liz) Ardell, his grandchildren Christopher (Krysten) Ardell, Matthew (Stephanie) Ardell, Hanna Hall, Hunter Hall, Elle Hall, Hailey Ardell, J.T. Ardell, and Grant Ardell, and his great-grandchildren Serai, Camden, Adrian, Amelia, and Colton.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother George Ardell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be directed to the animal shelter or a charity of your choice.

All funeral arrangements were privately held 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.

Elaine Kathleen Smith Schultz, 90 passed away on Thursday, April 25, 2024 at Library Lane Senior Apartments in Grayslake, IL surrounded by her daughter, son, and daughter-in-law.  She was born January 13, 1934 to Oden Weaver and Louise (nee: Stewart) Smith.

She was known as Kathleen, Kate, and Katie.

Kate is survived by her children Kurt (Jessica) Schultz of Seattle, WA, Brett (Joan) Schultz of Grayslake, IL, and Heidi Schultz of Lindenhurst, IL, her grandchildren Lauren (Vince) Perovic of Healdsburg, CA, and Corinne Schultz of Arlington Heights, IL.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Oden Smith, and her sisters Marilyn Carlisle and Florence Flanagan.

Born and raised in Illinois, she spoke often of her great affection for her Mother, Daddy, brother Oden (Odie) and two sisters, Marilyn, and Florence.  Her fond family memories stretch from infatuation with “Hollywood” and the movies, to going on day and weekend trips to lakes and forest preserves to picnic and swim.

Kate graduated from York High School in 1951.  She married her high school sweetheart, Jack Schultz on April 12, 1953, taking a brief leave from the Korean war.

Kate made a lovely home in Lombard and enjoyed being a mother. She was engaged with their school activities, piano and drum lessons, cub scouts, boy scouts, brownies, girl scouts, and park district baseball leagues.  She sewed costumes for Heidi’s ballet and tap dance recitals, and even sewed her own costumes for the annual music competitions with her local Sweet Adelines barbershop harmony and a cappella chorus.  She loved music of all genres and was quick to join in the fun to go listen to the local band “Mad Fox” in the mid- late 70’s with two of her dear bus driver girlfriends and several other bus driver friends- a couple of whom actually performed in the band.

Kate loved to encourage others, had a great laugh and was playful with a quick wit and joyous sense of adventure.   The family spent most holidays and vacations traveling from Lombard up to Crystal Falls, MI to be in the great north woods from 1962 until she finally moved in 1981 to make Crystal Falls her permanent home.   She was a kind and independent, strong woman.  For 36 years she drove down several times each year to visit Brett’s family in Illinois.  Kate adored her two granddaughters Lauren and Corinne very much.  She also traveled to spend time with Heidi in Southern California and Kurt in the Seattle area.

Kate was a dedicated, hard worker all of her life in roles as an administrative assistant, school bus driver, assembly technician, eventually retiring as a custodian from the Forest Parks Schools in 1999.  She later worked again at the deli of “The Jubilee” in town (Crystal Falls.)  Katie loved being with her friends- out of doors at the parks and lakes or playing cards and watching Packer games, laughing, or singing Karaoke.  She enjoyed the parades and festivities of the local community, even performing in multiple Annual Variety shows at the Crystal Theatre.  Her friends knew her as “a ray of sunshine, never judging others and always willing to go with the flow!” 

Katie achieved her dream of having a log cabin built to live in.  She became an avid deer hunter.  Katie held a profound appreciation for nature – embracing all of its glory from her cozy log cabin and spoke often of experiencing amazing sunrises, sunsets, and the northern lights.  She witnessed Haley’s comet vividly with her naked eye.  She loved the peace and solitude of her property, hiking with her dogs Thor and Orion through the pine and cedar forests, over the streams and meadows.  She fed many deer and wild turkey in the fall and winter months, and loved watching the birds, owls, hawks and eagles from her deck or dining room window all year long.  One of her favorite cabin life memories was when she had the unique pleasure to joyfully watch a mother black bear and her 3 cubs frolic and play in her yard as mama bear then stood on her hind legs to eat from the choke cherry tree and feed some to her cubs.

Kate had a very strong faith in the Lord throughout her life and was a member of Faith Fellowship Bible Church in Crystal Falls, MI.

A memorial visitation and service is scheduled for June 23, 2024 at Independence Grove Forest Preserve Visitor Center Bldg. 16400 W. Buckley Rd. Libertyville, IL 60048. The visitation will be held from 11am until 12:30pm when a memorial service and time of sharing will be begin. A social gathering will follow the memorial service from 1:15pm until 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the “Memorial Garden” at Kate’s church:  Faith Fellowship Bible Church, 1314 Old US Hwy 2, Crystal Falls, MI 49920.

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.

Robert J. Rutecki, 80, a resident of Round Lake Park, IL, passed away May 10, 2024 at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born June 16, 1943 in Chicago, IL to John and Mildred Rutecki.

Robert was a Vietnam War veteran having served with the US Army.  He worked for the Round Lake Schools for over 20 years as a custodian.  Robert enjoyed nature, was fun-loving, had a good sense of humor and was a doting grandfather.

Robert is survived by his children Teresa (Brian) Korbel and John Rutecki, his granddaughters Jessica (Keane) Anthony and Andrea Korbel, and his sisters Aurelia (Thomas) Keevers, Deborah (Tom) Harazin, and Cynthia (David) Ernst.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Lauren.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at Avon Centre Cemetery at the corner of Shorewood Rd. and Route 83 in Grayslake at 12:00pm.  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.

Lettie Jane Leininger (nee Rentschler) passed away on Saturday, May 11, 2024 at the age of 94.  Lettie was born in Rochester, Indiana on February 17, 1930 to Clarence and Virginia Rentschler, the oldest of four daughters.  She grew up on a farm outside Fulton Indiana and attended Manchester College receiving a Bachelors degree in Home Economics.  She married Donald W. Leininger on October 30, 1955.  Don and Lettie celebrated 65years of marriage in 2020 just prior to Don’s passing.

As a youth, she learned to sew becoming an accomplished seamstress and competing in 4H dress sewing competitions winning at the county fair and competing at the state fair. Sewing was a hobby that Lettie cherished through her life creating clothes for family, friends and herself.  She was also an avid gardener with particular focus on a variety of flowering plants.  Lettie had a deep faith and was a member of several Baptist congregations throughout her life.

Upon graduation from college, Lettie taught Home Economics in a school at Ligonier, Indiana.  After marrying Don, the couple moved around the country in support of Don’s career as an Officer in the U.S. Air Force.  That period of time included assignments in South Carolina, Germany, Alaska, Massachusetts, Louisiana, Indiana, California and Florida.  After Don retired from the service, they settled in Gurnee, Illinois and spend the remainder of their years in northern Illinois. 

Lettie considered her greatest accomplishment to be the birth and raising of her and Don’s three children, Dan, Julie and Chris.  Lettie was a stay at home mom during the children’s formative years devoting all of her energies to her family. As her children grew older, Lettie returned to the working world in sewing/fabric and greeting card retail management. She retired from this second career in the late 1990s.

During early retirement, Lettie and Don traveled to Europe and around the U.S. and especially enjoyed spending time with grandchildren.  In addition to sewing and gardening, Lettie spent time on puzzles and playing bridge.  She was also an active member of the Exchange Club.

Lettie was preceded in death by her parents and husband.  She is survived by her children, Dan (Jen) of Layton, UT, Julie (Ron Vander Weele) of Chicago, IL and Chris of French Lick, IN; and grandchildren Megan, Allison, Emily, Will, Max, Abe and Van and great-grandchild Henry.

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.

Our beloved mother, Marvis Leone Brinegar, born January 8^th, 1939, in Milaca, Minnesota. She passed away, May 10^th, 2024, in Lindenhurst, Illinois.

Marvis was born to Carl Albert Borg and Clara Belle Johnston, had five sisters – Doris, Joyce, Barbara, Melva, and Gloria.

Marvis and her sisters, Barbara and Melva, were adopted in 1945 by Nels Mikel Flatebo and Olyve Genevieve Manee. She grew up in Windom, Minnesota where she attended and graduated from Windom High School in 1957.

Shortly after graduating high school, Marvis moved to Chicago, Illinois for work where she met and married Clarven Brinegar on February 5, 1959. They moved to Round Lake Heights, Illinois in 1961 where they raised their seven children – Clarven Brinegar Jr. (Laura), Elizabeth Richardson (Reed), Daniel Brinegar, Renee Brinegar, Heidi Molinari (Mark), Andrew Brinegar (Patricia), and Amber Brinegar (Roger).

In 1983, Marvis and her sisters reunited with their biological family with the help of their adoptive father. She was able to meet several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She later also reunited with her father and her two older sisters Doris and Joyce.

During her lifetime in Round Lake Heights, Marvis volunteered for the Republican Party ensuring elderly people had rides to the polling locations. She was a den mother in the Boy Scouts for many years. She worked for Baxter Labs and was also a brake press operator for Stack-On Products until she retired in 2004. Additionally, she volunteered as a Sunday School and Vacation Bible school teacher at Good Shepard Lutheran Church in Lake Villa, Illinois.

Marvis married Lynn Gamble April 15^th, 1983, in Waukegan, Illinois. They enjoyed traveling and volunteering with the VA visiting veterans. They remained married until his death on July 22, 2003.

Marvis was a proud and supportive grandmother to her seventeen grandchildren – Rebecca Venk (Ryan), Cory Brinegar, Amanda Patterson (Devon), Regan Garrido (Vinny), Annyssa Molinari (Marlon), Brad Brinegar (Shannah), Rachelle Richardson, (Dustin), Tiffany Vilchis (Cody), Jessica Catalano, Kyle Brinegar, Arielle Blobner (Zac), Melanie Brinegar, Natalie Brinegar, Dakota Brinegar, Sierra Brinegar, (Ryan), Montana Brinegar, Houston Brinegar.

Her nineteen great-grandchildren always made her smile, when they called her GiGi – Destynee Patterson, Tina Timms Brinegar, Jett Bellows, Aaleyiah Patterson, Hayes Venk, Elijah Karczewski, Mateo Flores, Bradley Brinegar, Rowa Bellows, Devon Patterson, Olivia Catalano, Halle Venk, Khloe Brinegar, Blake Brinegar, Edith Garrido, Canyon Brinegar, Julian Jones, Lily Jeffrey, and Maverick Jones.

She is also survived by her numerous nieces, nephews, cousins whom she met up with yearly at our family reunions, and longtime friends Phyllis Larson, Kathy Germann and Elaine Portzen, who she has been best friends with for 63 years, and her favorite fur child Buttons Sophia, the cat.

She was proceeded in death by, both sets of parents that she was blessed to have Clara Johnston, Carl Borg, Gen Flatebo, and Nels Flatebo; sisters Gloria Borg, Barbara Johnson, Joyce Thompson, Doris Thompson, and Melva Karkut. Husbands Clarven Brinegar Sr and Lynn Gamble, son, Daniel Brinegar, and grandsons Cory Brinegar, Houston Brinegar.

For any memorials, Marvis had hoped you would send them in her name to organizations that provide meaningful services and are important to you.

The inurnment graveside service will be held on June 22, 2024 at 11:00am at Avon Centre Cemetery located at the corner of Shorewood Rd and Route 83 in Grayslake, IL. 

All funeral arrangements were privately held 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.

Donna Epstein (nee Twitchell), born on June 3, 1951, passed away on May 12, 2024.  Donna grew up in Seward, Alaska, where she lived until 1964 when a major earthquake destroyed their home. She moved to Anchorage, where she met the love of her life, Ira Epstein from Skokie, Illinois.  He was a Sergeant in the U.S. Air Force at Elmendorf Air Force Base.  They were married on July 12, 1969.  They lived in Anchorage until October 1973 when they moved to Illinois.  They had three children, Blair, Kjerstin Gatlin, and Kandace Williams; and four grandchildren, Liam Williams, Chance Culp, Chasidy Culp, and Jessie Culp.  Donna was preceded in death by her husband, Ira on January 10, 2007; and son, Blair on September 19, 2022.

Donna enjoyed playing Mahjongg and Bunco.  She belonged to the Dining Divas group and Red Hatters.  She enjoyed spending her spare time knitting winter scarves for veterans and homeless in Lake County and Operation Gratitude for the military.

Entombment will be held at Warren Cemetery, 1475 N. Cemetery Road, Gurnee, IL 60031 on Thursday, May 16, 2024 at 1pm.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Save A Pet, PO Box 266, Grayslake, IL 60030 or Wounded Warriors, National Processing Center, PO Box 758541, Topeka, KS 66675-8541. 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.