Bruce E. Thorson (75) of Round Lake Park, Illinois, passed away at home on March 22, 2025. Bruce was born June 3, 1949 in Omaha, Nebraska to Kenneth and Lois (Swanson) Thorson. He graduated from Westside High School, University of Nebraska-Omaha, and North Park Theological Seminary. He was ordained by the Evangelical Covenant Church. Throughout his life in ministry, Bruce served Campus Crusade, Dawson Covenant Church (Minnesota), Aurora Evangelical Covenant Church (Nebraska), Covenant Home (Chicago), Covenant Village (Northbrook, IL), and Libertyville Covenant Church (Libertyville, IL).

 Bruce married Merileen Wakeley on October 16, 1971. Bruce and Merileen shared 5 children, 13 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. Bruce loved his children and grandchildren immensely. He taught the grandkids to fish, play games, be patient, showed them the value of a good nap, told the best bedtime stories and loved snuggling on the couch. He was always supportive of his children and grandchildren and attended their games, concerts, and plays to encourage them. Especially in retirement, Bruce and Merileen enjoyed road trips together and had visited all 50 states.

Bruce was dedicated to a life of service and listening. In his own words, “My ministry over the years could be summed as trying to help people find healing and wholeness for their spirit, for their relationship with God.” One congregant in Minnesota shared that “Others have come with their agenda and gifts; you came and just loved us.” Chaplaincy was a special calling, with the privilege of listening to so many stories. Because of his own personal health challenges, he was able to relate to the residents at Covenant Village. His psychology background helped him understand the variety of people he ministered to. As a spiritual director, he was a careful listener. Bruce had a love for music that was evident throughout his ministry, playing guitar, trumpet, and singing in quartets and choirs.   

He is survived by his wife Merileen and children Scott, Sarah (Ben Palmberg), Julie (Keith Peterson), Erin (Ramon Rodriguez) and grandchildren Abigail (Will Addy),and Sophia Thorson, Lars, Kajsa and Maren Palmberg, Tessa, Calla, Andrew and Annika Peterson, Lucia, Clara, David and Noa Rodriguez, great-grandson Ellis Addy, and his brothers Paul and Steve. Numerous nieces, nephews and in-laws survive. He was preceded in death by his parents and infant daughter Christine.

 2 Timothy 4:7-8          Well done, good and faithful servant. 

Visitation will be Saturday, April 12, 2025 at 9:30am with service to follow at 10:30, Libertyville Covenant Church, 250 S. St. Mary’s Road, Libertyville. Memorials can be made to Libertyville Covenant Church. 

Mark Allen Lagoo, 60, of Dawsonville, GA, passed away peacefully on January 21, 2025 at home with his wife Melissa by his side.  He was born on November 28, 1964 in Waukegan, IL to Leslie and Irene Lagoo.

Mark was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs, enjoyed all Chicago food and loved his hometown of Round Lake, IL. He loved traveling with his wife and family often, mostly cruising the islands and summertime was his very favorite season.  He was never without a good joke, prank or laugh. He loved making others happy & living life to the fullest. He was a good man, loving & devoted husband, father and Papapa.  His wife, their daughter and grandchildren were always a source of great joy.

Mark will be loved, dearly and forever missed by his loving wife, Melissa, of 33 years; his father, Leslie Lagoo, Jr.; his daughter, Melissa (Mark) McClead of Ball Ground, GA; his grandchildren, Aubrie McClead, Alana McClead, and Easton McClead, all of Ball Ground, GA; his sisters, Leslie (Ruben) Lopez of Round Lake Beach, IL, Michele (Greg) Dombrowski of Menominee, MI, and Irene “Cookie” (Mike) Donovan of Winthrop Harbor, IL.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Lagoo.

A private, very special family celebration of life was held. 

James Joseph Miller, aged 83, a current resident of Third Lake, IL, and long time resident of Grayslake, passed away March 24, 2025, at Bickford of Gurnee.  He was born May 30, 1941 in Milwaukee, WI to Eugene and Ludina Miller, where he grew up with a strong sense of family and community.

James was a beloved husband, father, brother, teacher, and community leader. He was a devoted husband and father, providing a gentle presence offering wisdom and guidance to his children with a smile. He dedicated his professional life to teaching and leading staff and students as an educator and principal in District 46, where he worked to build a community of kindness, understanding, and a sense of belonging. James leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to all of the lives he has touched. He will be deeply missed but his impact will live on in the countless lives he touched throughout his lifetime. May he rest in peace.

James is survived by his wife of 56 years, Margaret Miller, his daughter Jenifer (Sam Williams) Miller, and his brother David Thomas Miller.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Ryan Miller.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Sunday, March 30, 2025 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 12 noon until 2pm with the funeral service commencing at 2pm.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the charity of your choice.  For more information log onto www.StrangFuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

Elizabeth Kay Woodworth, 44, passed away peacefully March 18, 2025 after an extended illness.  

Beth was born on April 17, 1980, to Donn and Barbara (Goethe) Woodworth.  She was a cherished only child who grew up on the west side of Rockford, always active, gardening, and enjoying the outdoors.  Beth loved spending time playing cards and games with her uncles, Ron and Jerry, at her grandparents house, and playing with her cousins at her Uncle Paul and Cathy’s house.  She had an early love of travel by taking vacations to Lake Tomahawk, WI, and visiting family like her aunts, MaryLou (Eric) and Dolores (Jim).  As she grew, she spent time playing in the yard with her step-brothers, Mark and Scott.  Beth graduated from Auburn High School in 1998, where her dad and step-mom Karla would cheer her on as she played on the basketball and tennis teams.  Beth majored in Biology at  Augustana College and “had the best legs” of her life due to all of the hills she had to hike up to get to class.  Then Beth moved to Champaign, IL where she received her Masters Degree in Geography from the University of Illinois.  While there she met Steve Tymonko who she married on October 14, 2006. Beth and Steve welcomed 2 sons, Sebastian, 12,  and Zachary, 7.  Beth worked as a Geographic Data Analyst for the University of Illinois Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering for many years, but her favorite job was being a mom to Seb and Zach.  After the boys were born, family became her first priority as they settled into their wonderful neighborhood in Lindenhurst.  They became very close with their neighbors who have been an incredible support.  Beth loved being a mom and watching the boys play hockey, board games, swim, and play with Rex, their dog.  Beth planned and photographed all of the family adventures, keeping a detailed photo journey on the walls of their home and maps of everywhere the family traveled.  Beth had a flair for hosting family and friends at her house, especially Thanksgiving dinner, where she and Steve would create wonderful memories for all.  

Beth was a selfless and loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, niece, cousin, and friend.  Her passing has left a hole that is impossible to fill and she will be incredibly missed by all.  Beth was predeceased in death by her parents, Donn and Barbara Woodworth; grandparents, Helen and Vernon Goethe; and uncle, Paul Goethe.  Beth is survived by her husband, Steve; sons, Sebastian and Zachary; step-mother, Karla (Les Horowitz) Woodworth; step-brothers, Scott (Ivy) Spencer and Mark (Staci) Spencer; in-laws John and Kathy Tymonko; sister-in-law Cheryl (George Greiner) Tymonko; numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. 

A memorial service will be held on Monday, March 31st at Wildwood Presbyterian Church in Grayslake at 2pm. Memorial donations may be made to A Safe Place, https://asafeplaceforhelp.org

Marion A. “Mike” Wicinski, 87, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away March 17, 2025, at his home.  He was born April 10, 1937, to Casmir and Catherine Wicinski in Chicago, IL. 

Mike was raised in Round Lake, IL and attended Grant Community High School in Fox Lake, IL. While in school, Mike could not quell the urge to serve his country in the United States Army. He enlisted and successfully completed a tour on the Korean Peninsula during the Korean War. Mike received an honorable discharge from the Army after serving and returning home.  He was very proud of his service to his country throughout his life.

After coming home, he would later meet the love of his life, ‘Patsy’. They married and began to build a life together. Their success together produced a wonderful home in Round Lake Beach filled with five loving children. Mike was extremely intelligent in mechanics. He worked at Fort Sheridan in North Chicago, IL as a mechanic for many years. His service and dedication earned him the privilege to retire in 1999. 

His family was his pride and joy. He instilled his knowledge and wisdom to his children with love and discipline. He took great pride in his home and cars.  The trim was always painted, and the grass always cut. However, most days you would find the garage door wide open with Mike managing the numerous projects inside. He worked on cars and other machinery in his free time with his friends, and kids often at his side.

He repaired and resold many vehicles over the years. His hard work eventually produced a completely restored 1922 Model T Touring painted a majestic Firetruck Red. Mike loved this car. His work of over a decade was so meticulous and detailed. From the hand-carved wooden spokes to the mirror-polished brass screws. His imagination, dedication, and hard work earned him awards at numerous car shows including ‘Best of Show’, which gave him great pride. If Mike wasn’t working on the cars, he was often off to a good cruise with his many other cars including a 1926 Model T Runabout in Edsal Ford Black, two Model A Fords, and his two Cadillacs; often blaring ‘Big Band’ era tunes.

Mike also loved to travel. Patsy and Mike experienced many places about the world, but they specifically loved Clearwater Beach, FL. From the beach to the hot-air balloon rides, their travels provided stories for decades for their family and friends. Their smiles and memories provided a legacy to be cherished.

Mike will be remembered for spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren along with his other family and close friends. Mike was a loving, caring, and devoted husband and father. He will be deeply missed.

Mike is survived by his children Michelle (Larry) Frederichs, Jeffrey Wicinski, Jerry (Vickie) Wicinski, Mary Pat (Tommy) Vepley, Maureen (Mike) Papp; his grandchildren Joshua (Charo) Wicinski, Natosha (Rob) Thormo, Vanessa Degand, Kraig (Alexandria) Wicinski, Michael (Sherry) Wicinski, Joey Wicinski, Christopher Wicinski, Geremi (Shannon) Wicinski, Jessica (Jerry) Mahoney, Kurtis (Haley) Vepley, Meagan Ratajczyk; his great-grandchildren Czara and Chay Wicinski, Jason, Kyle, and Raelyn Thormo, Annabelle, Kollins, and Karson Wicinski, Emma and Grace Wicinski, Brady and Jordan Wicinski, Landin Palmer and Zoey Cockrell, Rowen Vepley, and Eric Royal III; his siblings Joan (Connie) Walker, Danny Wicinski, Dolores Hagan, Martin Wicinski; his in-laws, Kathleen (Robert) Swieton, Larry McCann, Suzanne Wicinski, and Alfred Hertel; and his numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Patricia (McCann) Wicinski, his granddaughters Mallori Papp and Olivia Thormo, his siblings, Robert Wicinski, Norbert Wicinski, Tom Wicinski, Carol (Alfred) Hertel, and brother-in-law Joseph McCann.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 10:00am until 2:00pm with the service commencing at 2:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view memorial video click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/DBNRY4Z8QNFFBX2R

Carmelo Palmayra Zapata, 82, a resident of Round Lake, IL, passed away March 19, 2025, at Integrated Palliative Care in Libertyville, IL.  He was born July 16, 1942, in the Philippines to Fredrick and Patrocinio Zapata.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 11:00am until 1:00pm with the service commencing at 1:00pm.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

October 22, 2021 – March 14, 2025

Our precious son, Bennett “Benny” David Nelson, left us far too soon on March 14, 2025, at the age of 3. Benny passed away peacefully at Lurie’s Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, after falling ill and suffering an unexplained seizure with extraordinary complications. He leaves a legacy of kindness as an organ donor, giving the gift of life to other children and providing hope to their families.

Benny was born on October 22, 2021, in Highland Park, Illinois, and raised in Grayslake and Antioch, Illinois, by his parents, Tiffany Mae (Madeux/Glenn) and Bradley Edward Nelson. From the moment he entered the world, his small stature was no match for his enormous personality. With his raspy voice and boundless energy, Benny was always on the move, riding his tractor, playing in the mud, and living life with an exuberance that terrified and delighted everyone around him. He was wild, loving, and full of life—plus more.

Benny shared a special, unbreakable bond with his sister, Adalyn (5). Partners in crime, they filled each day with laughter, love, and endless adventures. From exploring the world together to embarking on imaginary quests, their connection was undeniable, and Benny’s love for Adalyn shone through in every shared secret and giggle. Benny will be deeply missed by his loving big sister.

A preschooler at Emmons/Grass Lake Schools, Benny had an undeniable curiosity and love for learning. He had a phenomenal vocabulary for his age, surprising everyone with his ability to articulate his thoughts. Benny loved schoolwork—it was amazing to see him sit still and focus, even though he had so much energy to burn. He loved doing puzzles, learning new dinosaur names, and recently mastering the art of riding a two-wheeler with training wheels. Benny had a love for music and dancing, always bobbing his head to the beat while playing his toy piano. He was known for giving the best hugs, and his infectious smile with sweet dimples made him impossible to forget.

Benny is survived by his loving parents, Tiffany and Bradley; sister, Adalyn; paternal grandparents, Wendy and David Nelson; maternal grandmother, Teri Sue Madeux; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Cecil Rae Glenn.

Our family is deeply grateful for the love and support we’ve received during this heartbreaking time. In honor of Benny’s wild spirit and unshakable joy, please hold your loved ones close and cherish each moment life gives you.

A memorial visitation is scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, at Christ Church Crossroads 1350 IL 137 Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm.  The Celebration of Life will be held at the church on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10:00am.  Interment will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana.  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.

https://bennys-dino-story.my.canva.site/remembering-benny

Vitalina Gonzalez, 50, of Wheeling, IL passed away on March 17, 2025.

A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 4pm until 8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 114 Lincoln Ave, Round Lake, IL 60073 on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 9:30am.  Interment will be held privately. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Zbigniew J. Sadowski, 68, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on March 15, 2025 at Adocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born on October 18, 1956 in Poland to Feliks and Eugenia Sadowski.

Zbigniew is survived by his wife of 44 years, Barbara; his sons, Lukasz (Teresa) and Matt; his grandchildren, Nathanial, Dominic, and Charlotte; and brother, Jerzy (Barbara). Zbigniew was preceded in death by his parents, Feliks and Eugenia.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Transfiguration Catholic Church, 316 W. Mill Street, Wauconda, IL 60084 on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 11am. A visitation will be held at church on Saturday from 10am until the start of Mass.  Interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. To send flowers, the family asks that you order through Mount Prospect Flowers https://www.mpflowers.com/ and call (847) 956-6000. 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.

Margaret Edith Kerr (June 3, 1955-March 14, 2025)

Margaret “Meg” Kerr, a resident of Round Lake, Illinois, passed away surrounded by her loving family. Meg was a parishioner of St. Gilbert Catholic Church in Grayslake and was for many years a member of its choir. She loved to travel (especially to Italy) and to cook (especially Italian food).

Born in Painesville, Ohio, to Francis and Eileen Kerr, Meg attended Riverside High School and then attended the University of Dayton, where she received a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in public policy. She worked for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services before relocating to northern Illinois in 1982. Thereafter, she was a longtime resident of Grayslake until moving to Round Lake in 2022. Her career experiences included an executive consulting and training company (Executive KnowledgeWorks), an insurance company (MMI Companies, Inc.), and the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. (AAAHC), where she rose to the position of vice president.

Meg is survived by her brothers, Michael F. Kerr and Thomas J. Kerr; Tom’s former wife, Robin Pease Gura and their two children, Sarah Pease-Kerr and Daniel Pease-Kerr; and Meg’s loving Keefe cousins, Margy, Larry, Kevin, Ginny, Katy, Patty, and Johnny, as well as their many children. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A funeral mass is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at St. Mary of the Annunciation Cemetery in Mundelein. Memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, www.komen.org. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122. 

To watch the funeral mass via live stream click here: https://youtube.com/channel/UCMP0PFhS_wyXxgsTzbPEEyw

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/48TT7Z762TMH7STR

Michaela Autumn Murphy-Stein (24) of Richmond, IL, was called home to her Heavenly Father on March 9, 2025, at Northwestern Hospital in McHenry, IL, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Tyler Stein; her father, Michael Murphy; her mother, Melissa Murphy (née Turnes); her brothers, Marshall (Amy) Murphy, Matthew Murphy, Malachi Murphy, Mannix Murphy, and Maxson Murphy; her sister, Myla Murphy; her grandparents, Thomas Murphy, Diane Murphy, and Gail Turnes; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins who cherished her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Wayne Turnes; her aunt, Rosemary Murphy; and her aunt, Jenny Castillo, who welcomed her into the arms of the Lord.

Michaela was a radiant beacon of Christ’s love, a devout Christian whose heart overflowed with devotion to her Savior. She delighted in helping others and brightened the lives of everyone who knew her, reflecting the grace usually known as the sweetest soul one could ever encounter. Michaela’s outgoing spirit and genuine love for people touched countless lives. She approached every endeavor with excellence, a testament to the gifts God bestowed upon her. Her absence leaves an unfillable void, but her legacy of faith, kindness, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, until they are reunited in the glory of God’s eternal kingdom.

Michaela was a loving and loyal wife who was well known for her strong faith in God. She loved her church and bringing friends, family, and even strangers closer to God. Michaela had a kind soul and her beauty was seen both inside and out. She enjoyed spending time with Tyler taking on all kinds of new adventures. They loved to cook together and try new recipes. Michaela enjoyed spending time in nature and at home relaxing. No one would be surprised to catch her watching her favorite movie Coraline or Sponge Bob. She and Tyler had planned on purchasing a home before she became ill. Words cannot describe the love and connection that Tyler and Michaela had for each other.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday at The Chapel, 1966 W Hawley St, Mundelein Illinois from 4pm until 8pm. A funeral service will be held immediately after at The Chapel at 8pm. Burial will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

https://gofund.me/e6720d55

All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847) 233-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org

Mark A. Mirando, 64, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away March 5, 2025, at his home.  He was born November 9, 1960, in Cleveland, OH, to Nicholas and Loretta Mirando.

Mark was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a passion for boating, fishing, and classic cars, and his love for these hobbies was only rivaled by his love for spending time with family and friends. Whether it was shooting pool, playing his favorite songs on repeat (much to their amusement), or sharing a good laugh, Mark was always the life of the party.  

A dedicated business owner, Mark worked tirelessly, but he always knew how to play just as hard. He was quick with a one-liner, loved giving everyone a nickname, and had a playful sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes. Mark’s generosity was evident in the way he cared for his loved ones, always offering a helping hand whenever it was needed. 

He had an incredible memory, an impressive knowledge of classic films (especially The Godfather, where he knew every line), and loved unwinding with sports. Whether it was golf, pool, or bowling, Mark was always up for a challenge and excelled at whatever he put his mind to. Mark will be remembered for his wit, his warmth, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He was a great friend, a loving family member, and an unforgettable presence in the lives of those who knew him.

Mark is survived by his wife, Susan Mirando, his mother Loretta Mirando, his children Gina Mirando and Joey (Alison) Mirando, his grandchildren Benjamin, Isabelle, Hunter, Royce, Wyatt, Anthony, and Annalise, his sisters Michelle Lannan and Natalie Mirando, and his nephews and great nephews.  He was preceded in death by his dad Nicholas Mirando and his son Tim Mirando.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030, from 10:00am until 1:00pm with the service commencing at 1:00pm.  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/93G6GQGRXFPY8JMF

Mary A. Howell, 78, of Waukegan, IL, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 28, 1947, to Joseph and Myrtle Skalla (Dreyer), Mary was raised in Waukegan and remained deeply connected to her hometown throughout her life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Mary was the heart of her family, always putting others first and offering endless love, kindness, and wisdom. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering strength touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Mary graduated from Waukegan Township High School in 1965. Later in life, she pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a Certified Nurse Technician. She dedicated her career to the labor and delivery floors at St. Therese and Lake Forest Hospital, where she found immense joy in supporting mothers and newborns. Her gentle touch and compassionate care left a lasting impact on countless families. She continued this meaningful work until her retirement.

Beyond her career, Mary had a deep love for traveling, soaking up the sun, and spending time by the water, where she found peace and happiness.

Mary is survived by her beloved children, Donna, Joseph (Cynthia), Denise (Steve), Michael (Mandi), and Diane (Dan), who were her greatest pride and joy. She was a cherished grandmother to Ashley, Alyssa, Jenny, Emily, Katie, Allison, Christian, Ethan, Logan, Tyler, Zachary, Isabella, and Laney, and a proud great-grandmother to Eli, Jade, Erin Grace, Alaia, Lea, Zoe, and baby Cane on the way. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and her dear sisters, Barbara, Margaret (John), and Georgine, who shared a lifetime of love and memories with her.

Mary’s loyal and loving pet, Lily, was always by her side, providing her with endless comfort and companionship.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Myrtle Skalla; and her brothers-in-law, Ronald Baruffi and Ron Rehor.

Though Mary will be deeply missed, her family finds peace knowing she is now at rest, reunited with those who went before her. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church (301 E. Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL), followed by burial at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville. Visitation will be held at St. Gilbert from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on the same day.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for all the love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Mary’s kindness, strength, and love will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory can be made to Journey Hospice.

Ronald (Ron) Alfred Smejkal, 81, a resident of Wildwood, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025 at home. He was born on April 12, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois to Irvin and Alice Smejkal. Ron moved to Wildwood, Illinois at age 7. 

He was a graduate of Warren Township High  School in 1961, where he met his highschool sweetheart and beloved wife of 62 years, Kathryn (Katy). Ron and Katy got married in June 1962. 

After graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he was a Fire Control Tech on submarines for 10 years. Ron also worked at the Commonwealth Edison nuclear power plant in Zion, Illinois for 27 years as a senior work analyst. 

Ron was a square dance caller for 16 years and was the Walk ‘N’ Dodgers club caller from 1989-2001. 

Ron spent much of his time walking forest preserves or Gurnee Mills mall with his wife, Katy, where he learned to say good morning and good afternoon to people in 16 different languages. He also enjoyed adding to his various collections. Ron was known in the area as the keychain guy. He gathered an impressive collection over the years that totaled 56,700 different keychains. 

Ron was hardworking, generous, reliable, and was always willing to do anything for his family. He will be missed dearly. 

Ron is survived by his wife, Kathryn (Katy) Smejkal; his four children, James (Linda) Smejkal, Ron (Sharel) Smejkal, Tabitha Zaehringer, and Jon Smejkal; his grandchildren, Thomas Smejkal, Josh Smejkal, Tony Smejkal, Marissa Zaehringer, and Andrew Zaehringer; his sister, Lorraine (Glen) Hett of Sheridan, Wyoming; and his many nieces and nephews. 

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.