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. 

Jacqueline “Jackie” S. Waldron, 50, of Gurnee, IL, passed away on March 4, 2025, at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital. She was born on August 31, 1974, in Waukegan, IL, to James and Jo Ann Waldron.

Jackie was a devoted member of Gurnee Community Church, where she found joy in volunteering and participating in various groups. She was a loving and involved mother who cherished spending time with her children. Jackie loved camping with her children and loved visiting national parks and walking around in them. Jackie and Gracelyn loved watching their favorite shows together and she loved her time with Oli driving around and spending time together. Jackie would enjoy watching Cora design all her crafts. Jackie also loved her cats Tic, Tac and Toe. 

She is survived by her parents, Jo Ann and James Waldron; her beloved children, Hailey “Oli” Petrovic, Gracelyn Petrovic, and Cora Petrovic; her brother, Joe (Tasha) Waldron, and their children, Katelynn and Samuel; her cousin, Chris (Chelsea) Mullally, and their children, Keagan (Kylee), Luke, Kaycee, and Matthew. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and her godmother.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd., Grayslake, IL 60030. Visitation will continue on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gurnee Community Church, 4555 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee, IL 60031, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Millburn Cemetery in Millburn, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gurnee Community Church. For more information, please visit www.strangfuneral.org

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/82D6LZGCML2J62HN

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Annamarie Bonelli, aged 80, on February 27, 2025. Born on June 11, 1944, in Palermo, Italy, Annamarie’s remarkable journey took her from the shores of Sicily to the heart of America, where she built a life full of hard work, love, and generosity.

Annamarie is survived by her husband, Richard; her daughter, Erika (Jennifer Schultz) Bonelli; and her grandchildren, Zachary and Tyler Bonelli-Schultz. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Nick, Mario and Joseph DiGiovanni.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 11am. A memorial visitation will be held at church on Tuesday from 10:30am until the time of Mass.  Arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Phyllis A. Slimko (Weis), formally of Grayslake, IL passed away peacefully at JourneyCare Hospice Center on January 30, 2025 in Barrington, IL at the age of 93. Born in LaSalle, IL in 1931, Phyllis was the only child of loving parents, John and Grace Kinnegar. In her younger years, Phyllis worked at Westclox in Peru, IL, where she contributed to the renowned clock manufacturing industry that kept time for so many. Later in life, she became a switchboard operator at Sanyo Fisher Service where her voice connected people across distances with warmth and efficiency. Phyllis had a passion for dance that never faded. Whether gliding gracefully across a ballroom floor or embracing the rhythm of country music, dancing was one of her greatest pleasures. She also had a deep love for animals and cherished her beloved “poochies” Lexi and Amber, who brought her endless companionship and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ronald Weis and stepson, Thomas Weis. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Armes; her granddaughter, Rebecca (Rick) Compton; her stepchildren, Michael (Lori) Weis, Christine Weis, and Joan Weis; as well as stepgrandchildren, Samantha, Jason, Brian, and Connor.

Per her wishes, no funeral services will be held. The family wishes to send their gratitude to her long-term caregiver Amanda Lawson and to the staff at JourneyCare for their care and compassion.  Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in her honor.  Phyllis’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her unconditionally. 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. 

Marty J Ziemer of Grayslake passed away early Monday morning on February 17 at Condell Hospital. In her typical stubborn fashion, she refused to listen to the staff who were sure she was going to pass away on Sunday.

Marty was born in Oconto, WI in 1947 and was the youngest of nine. She is preceded in death by her siblings Bobby, Delores, Dorothy and Margaret and is survived by Ronald, Elaine, Joan and Mary Therese. She is also survived by her daughter, Kim and her son, Keith, as well as her grandchildren Thomas, Daniel, Kate and Daxton. She had as many nieces and nephews as there are grains of sand on a beach. Marty also will be missed by many friends. Special mention to her friend Barb who was one of the first neighbors Marty met when she moved to Grayslake in 1975 and has remained one of her best friends since then.

Marty earned her masters degree in clinical social work from George Williams College and opened her  private practice in 1987. She never advertised, and grew her practice from referrals and word of mouth. She will be greatly missed by her current and prior clients. She loved what she did, and often said she learned as much from her clients as she taught them. She never stopped working, and had a full day of therapy sessions scheduled on the day she died.

Marty lived a life of adventure; she spent many years riding her motorcycle and traveling (she especially loved Ireland and Oregon), eating at restaurants with friends and spending time with her dogs. She always listened closely, did not judge and was always willing to help. She was generous with her time, and enjoyed drinking a Stella beer while sitting on her patio with a friend. Marty would always say the worst swear word in the dictionary is “should.” Fiercely independent, she lived life on her terms and never really worried about what others might say. She often drove too fast, could never remember her passwords and tried to recycle everything. She liked listening to Josh Groban, Billy Joel and John Denver (“Take Me Home Country Roads” was the last song she heard.)

Per her request there will be no funeral service, possibly because she knew she would find a way to be late to it. Instead, please honor her memory by planting something, creating something or writing something in a journal. 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.

Michael Anthony DeRose, 57 years old, of McHenry, IL and formally of Libertyville, IL, passed away on February 21, 2025. He was born March 26, 1967, in Libertyville, IL, to Jerry and Doris DeRose. Michael loved his friends and family with all his heart. He wore his heart on his sleeve. He loved working on old cars, riding motorcycles and going fishing. He was a member of St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church.

Michael is survived by his sons, Dylan and Collin DeRose; his fiancé, Julie Dalson; his siblings, Debra ( Larry ) Brandimore, Sandy ( Paul ) Quinn, Jerry III ( Tina ) DeRose, Terry (Tina Mucciante ) DeRose, Larry ( Bonnie ) DeRose, Dena ( Bernie Kainz ) DeRose, Carmella ( Warren ) Sundt, Donna ( Steve ) Klein, and Michelle Garrity; his former wife, Amanda DeRose, many nieces and nephews, and cousins.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church, 40000 US-45, Lake Villa, IL 60046 on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 12pm. A visitation will be held on Saturday at Church from 10am until 12pm. Interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. 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.

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of William E. Carey, who left us peacefully from the comfort of his home on February 20th, 2025. Known for his sharp wit and generous heart, he was loved by all who had the pleasure of crossing his path.

An aficionado of cigars, aspiring pool shark, and lover of life, Bill was never without a story, a laugh, or a piece of advice. He was fluent in sarcasm and had a knack for saying exactly what was on his mind. Often found in his workshop, Bill was a true master of many trades. As a woodworker, his hands shaped more than just furniture — he crafted legacies, custom pieces that will live on as heirlooms for generations to come. His keen eye as a photographer captured the very essence of life, each photo revealing the beauty he saw in the world around him. Bill was an eternal optimist, as evidenced by his lifelong belief that the Bears, Hawks, or Cubs would someday have a winning season.

It was Bill’s love for his family that truly defined his legacy—everyone who knew him believed they were his favorite, because, in his heart, they truly were. As a husband, father and brother, Bill was the oak tree; a source of unwavering love and support. Though he has left this world, his spirit lives on in every joke he cracked, every hand he shook, every person lucky enough to feel his love. 

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Juliana; his children, Marya Pleasant (Lew), Fiona Carey, Breanne York (Ernie); his grandkids, Ivan, Eloise, Kyle, Ginny (Ben), Lauren (Ryan), and Hannah; his great-grandchildren, Ella Mae, Ben, Lulu, Bowen, and Tille; his siblings, Lynn, Pat (Daryl), Kathy (Bob), Sue (Mike), Clif (Shauna), Beth (Mike), Lauri (Mike) and many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Fran Carey. 

A celebration of his life will be held to honor Bill on Sunday, March 2^nd at 129 Center Cut in Grayslake from 12pm-3pm. We invite all who loved him to join us as we remember the man who loved just as much as he was loved. It was Bill’s wish that family and friends would engage in a Dean Martin-style Roast in his memory, so those who wish to share their funniest, most outrageous, and most cherished Bill Carey stories will be welcome to do so. 

May his memory be a blessing and a comfort, and may his laugh echo forever in our hearts.

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.

Betty Crabtree, born January 2, 1963, peacefully passed away at home surrounded by family after losing her battle to Cancer on February 23, 2025. She was born in Chicago IL to Albert and Evelyn Coleman. She lived in Chicago most of her younger years before moving to Round Lake Park IL. She lived there until she met her husband at the age of 15. They were married a year later. They had 2 children and settled down in Ingleside IL.

Betty worked as a buyer for the past 10 years at OCM in Grayslake. There she met many great people and made a lot of friends. Previously, she worked as a buyer at IMC holdings, previously Intrupa also in Grayslake for 23 years. That paved her way for a long and amazing career.

Betty loved her family and friends. She had a strong love for Slot Machines, Bingo, and scratch off tickets. She touched many hearts, and her memories will live on forever.

She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Michael Crabtree. Her 2 children, Jeremy Crabtree and Nicole Walker. Her sisters, Barbara Miller (Tim), Bert Steffens, and Doris Coleman. Her brothers, Jessie Coleman and Thomas Coleman. Many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. Also, 2 sisters in laws, Mary Filipiak (Ed) and Alice Thompson (James). Nieces and nephews in law and great and great great nieces and nephews in law.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, Albert and Evelyn Coleman. Her 2 cats, Duncan and Tigger, and her Grand pup Chase.

Her visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Friday, February 28,^, 2025 from 4pm to 8pm. In lieu of flowers please donate to Save a Pet in Grayslake IL. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Tracy S. Banks, 60, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away February 19, 2025, at her home.  She was born July 2, 1964, in Fort Wayne, IN to Norman and Dolores Sanford.

She had a very caring heart. Loved her grand kids and teaching her students to swim. She was outgoing and charismatic. She was a very genuine soul and will be missed dearly. 

Tracy is survived by her mother Dolores Potts, her children Kirsten (Arthur) Fletcher, Jordan (Tara) Kelly, Sonja (Chris Kukla) Banks, her grandchildren Damien Kelly, Nicholas Fletcher, Artistic Fletcher, Brooke Kelly, Jaelynn Kelly, Jayden Kelly, Kamren Kelly, and Leo Kukla, and her siblings Laurel Sanford, Doug (Connie) Sanford, and Timothy (Kristy) Sanford.  She was preceded in death by her father. 

A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm.  A graveside service will take place on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at Fennville Cemetery in Fennville, MI at 1:00pm.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122. 

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/JX5487CPH8ZFWFJ7

Carol Lee Prebianca, 75, a resident of Antioch, IL, passed away February 19, 2025, at her home.  She was born April 18, 1949, in Elmhurst, IL to Raymond and Lorraine Yeakey.  

Carol was the past President of the Transplant Support Group and the Homeowner’s Association in Glen Ellyn.  She volunteered for the Antioch Senior Center for over 14 years and had her own home daycare in Glen Ellyn for 15 years.  Carol was a graduate of the York High School class of 1967 and worked for the DuPage County Court House.  She enjoyed working in her yard and made a lot friends through the years.

Carol is survived by her children Fred Prebianca and Tammy Prebianca, her grandchildren Michael Rose, Chuck Rose, and Jade Prebianca, her great-grandchildren Chuck Rose Jr. and Ethan Rose, and her brother Kenneth Yeakey.

A celebration of life will be held on April 6th, 2025 from 2-6pm at the new Senior Center. Address is 1275 main St. Antioch IL 60002. 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

Leslee C. Pope passed away at the age 63. She born in Chicago and moved to Glenview IL when she was 8 then moved to Grayslake, Illinois in the late 1980’s where she passed at her home on February 17, 2025, she was 63.

Born Leslee Weiner on June 16, 1961, she was the only child of loving parents Josefine and Bernard Weiner.

Leslee attended grade and high school in Glenview.  Worked at Dominick to help pay her way with Northern Illinois and Loyola Universities where she studied. She attended St Catherine Church where she was involved with chirp program and met then Deacon Tom now Most Reverend Thomas Paprocki Bishop of Springfield, they have remained friends. Leslee developed a love and passion for animals early in life, she started showing hunters and jumpers, after a few years a back injury from a horse refusing a jump required her to change direction with animals and she got involved in purebred dog showing staring with Labrador Retrievers. Leslee believed in being the best so with Dick Cooper she got her start. Leslee established Huntcrest Labradors and Cavilers as her kennel name for her breeding program.  

Leslee and David met in 1994 and were marred September 14, 1996 in Grayslake and have been a loving, and supportive team since. She did not have children. All of her beloved dogs are her kids. Leslee had passion for Caviler King Charles Spaniels and was heavily involved in this breed AKC and CKCSCUSA 1998. She has been very successful breeding and showing Cavilers with finishing around 30 champions with some of the best handlers help getting her dogs to the winning circle.

Leslee achieved numerous obedience titles and about 30 championship titles on her Labradors US and Canada and attend about 100 shows a year. She was very involved with The Seeing Guide Dogs and Morris Animal Foundation, where she was regional chair person in 1987 and named its outstanding volunteer of the year and worked with and met Betty White, who would ask Leslee to lend her a Labrador named Regent to appear on a news morning show with her when Betty was in Chicago. Leslee had numerous service and guide dogs. She contributed to several breeding programs with breeding stock and puppy donations.

Leslee is an AKC Breeder of Merit in Labradors and Cavilers. She is a member of several dog clubs from Labrador, Cavilers and all breed. Leslee helped found and was a past president of the local AKC CKCCGC club. She has been involved with many specialty and all breed clubs. Leslee liked to sing, and she belonged to the St Gilberts church choir and sang the national anthem for very large dog show at the Stevenson Exhibition center. She often sang to her Cavilers and they just stood at attention watching her.        

Leslee worked for State farm Insurance in different agents offices for over 25 years. Leslee loved working with clients and consider them as friends as well. 

She is survived by her loving husband David Pope, Cousin Dan, one Labrador Nordic, a number of Cavilers, a Great Pyrenees Fluffy and her many amazing friends around the world.      

Visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, Sunday, February 23, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM located at 410 East Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL. 60030.

Church Service will be held at St Gilbert Church on February 24, 2025. from 11:00 AM located at 301 East Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL. 60030. The service will be live streamed. Procession to Ascension Cemetery 1920 Buckley Rd. Libertyville.

St Gilbert website to view. https://youtube.com/channel/UCMP0PFhS_wyXxgsTzbPEEyw

In lieu of flowers, memorial donation can be made to the following.

 Morris Animal Foundation 720 S Colorado Blvd #174a, Denver, CO 80246 (800) 243-2345

or

AKC Reunite Canine Support and Relief Fund.www.akcreunite.org/donate/

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/RB2DWZ7JLBZ8CDFH

Warren Howard Sundberg, 79, of Hainesville, IL, passed away on February 13, 2025 at his home.  He was born on April 10, 1945 in Chicago to Carl and Ruth Sundberg. Warren proudly served his country in the Vietnam War and was a member of the VFW. 

Warren is survived by his wife, Janet Sundberg of 40 years whom he married on May 6, 1985 in Las Vegas; his children, Randy Sundberg, and Jennifer (Patrick) Krull; his stepchildren, John (Monica) Lundgren, Jr., Nicholas Lundgren, Mark (Linda) Lundgren, Tracey (John Hoegerl) Lundgren, and Michael (Laura) Lundgren; many beloved grandchildren; and his siblings, Walter (Judy) Sundberg, Barbara Nathaus, and Paul Sundberg. He was preceded in death by his brother, John (Kathy) Sundberg; his brother-in-law, Charles Nathaus; and both his parents.

A Celebration of Life will be scheduled.  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.

Thomas George Burchard, 60, a resident of Lake Villa, IL, passed away February 13, 2025, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL. He was born April 3, 1964, in Park Ridge, IL to George and Josephine (nee: Seng) Burchard.

Tom was a member of Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 73 for over 30 years. He was an avid baker and was best known for his caramel corn and cheesecake recipe amongst family and friends. Tom never met a dog that he didn’t like and had a deep love for his own pets.  Tom was a true Bears fan and never missed a game even when they were at their lowest low. Nothing gave him more happiness than watching family or friends enjoy swimming in the backyard pool. Even though Tom was a quiet person, his enthusiasm came through when given the right topic like football or war history.

Tom is survived by his wife of 34 years, Julie Burchard, whom he wed on May 18, 1990 in Glenview, IL, his daughter Elizabeth Burchard, and his siblings Barbara (Dave) Berend, John Burchard, Bob (Diane) Burchard, Kathy Burchard, George (Diana) Burchard, and Jerry (Lori) Burchard. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son Matthew Burchard.

A visitation and funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 12:00pm until 1:00pm with the funeral service commencing at 1:00pm. Interment will follow at Avon Centre Cemetery in Grayslake, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Save-A-Pet. For more information log onto http://www.strangfuneral.org/ or contact (847)223-8122.

Barbara Jo McLaren Williams passed away on Sunday, February 9th, 2025.  Barbara was born April 4th, 1941, in Chicago, Illinois. She was the eldest of five, and the only daughter of Donald Robert McLaren and Ruth Annette Feley McLaren. Barbara was raised in Oak Park, IL where she attended Whittier Grammar School and Oak Park-River Forest High School. At OPRF, she played basketball, was a member of the cheerleading squad, and a soloist with the Girls Ensemble. She remained active in her class reunion committee for many years following her graduation, which kept her connected to her hometown.  While attending the University of Illinois, she was an active member and officer in the Alpha Phi sorority.  After graduating in 1963, she moved to Philadelphia. She landed a job working at WFIL FM radio station where Dick Clark was hosting the successful daily show American Bandstand.  Barbara moved back to Oak Park and then to Wheaton with her husband Mike Williams and began a family. Barbara was committed to the success of the architectural firm Williams/Pollock/Associates serving as a secretary and financial manager for many years. She enjoyed spending time in Manitowish Waters, Wisconsin and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin with family and friends.

Barbara was known for her kindness, dedication, generosity, compassion, tenacity, and outgoing personality. She possessed an incredible memory of her past experiences, especially as it related to family history.  It was remarkable, as if you were stepping back in time or listening to a history professor. Barbara loved her family so immensely and never shied away from an opportunity to talk about their goals, triumphs, and successes. Barbara always cherished quality time with her children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins, nephews, nieces, and friends. 

Barbara’s attention to detail and patience on tasks was amazing. She never met a dish that she could not make squeaky clean, or a pair of pants folded so crisp they could cut cake. Another one of her greatest joys was listening to music, she loved all kinds of music, but most recently she was a huge Jonas Brothers fan. She even attended several Jonas Brothers Concerts. Concerts and music always brought her insurmountable amounts of happiness and joy. If you needed a “pick me up”, she without fail had a song recommendation ready to boost your mood. She touched many people with her love, and her honor and spirit will continue to live on within her family. 

Barbara is survived by her two children Don (Alyssa) and Joanna (Phil Angelos), her grandchildren Dr. Chloe Williams (Andy McLean), Lindsay Williams (Billy Morris), Emma Williams (Nick Sobczak), Rylann Williams, Luke Angelos and great grandson Michael McLean.  She is also survived by her brothers Robert (Bonnie), Douglas (Terry), David, and Dan (Minerva) McLaren, along with many nephews, nieces, and great-nephews and great-nieces. 

Along with Barbara’s wishes, services will be limited to family.  In lieu of flowers, donations to the Hephzibah Children’s Association are welcome.  Donations can be made on their website: www.hephzibahhome.org/donate/, by phone (708) 649-7140, or by mail at 1144 Lake Street, 5th Floor, Oak Park, IL 60301. Please note your gift is in memory of Barbara McLaren Williams.  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.

David Dean Gray, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 14, 2025. He was born on September 20, 1936, to the late Helen and Eldean Gray. David was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, stepfather, step-grandfather, and step-great-grandfather whose legacy will be cherished forever.

David is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 38 years, Patricia. His children survive him: Pamela (Richard), Cheryl (Wayne), and Sarah (Brian); his grandchildren: Loren (Brad), Amanda (Nate), Jason (Alison), Nicolette (Will), Jack (Chelsea), Adam, Abby, Joseph, and Jonathan; and his great-grandchildren: Landon, Patrick, Joelle, Archer, and Jayden.

David is also preceded in death by his beloved wife of 19 years, Barbara (O’Brien). His stepchildren survive him: Terry (Cindy), Darren (Sharon), Daniel, and Michael (Patti); his step-grandchildren: Jennifer (Shane), Megan (Mark), Nicholas, Nathan, Nolan, Allison, Niles, and Aidan; and his step-great-grandchildren, Samantha, Max, and Miles.

David is also survived by his long-time companion, Wyona Snyder.

David invented and flew the first radio-controlled (RC) helicopter in 1970. His original model is displayed at the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.

David began experimenting with radio-controlled models early on, starting with electric-powered airplanes, cars, and boats. His passion for RC models eventually led him to helicopters, and his .40-powered RC helicopter made the cover of Model Airplane News in 1970.

He later worked with Du-Bro to develop his helicopter designs further, resulting in successful models like the Du-Bro Whirley Bird 505.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

All funeral services 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.

John M. Kotarba, 75, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away February 9, 2025, at the Captain James Lovell Health Center in North Chicago, IL.  He was born March 9, 1949, in Chicago, IL to Joseph and Helene Kotarba.  He grew up in Wheeling, Ill, and lived in Grayslake, Ill for 47 years.

John was a veteran of the Vietnam War having served with the US Marine Corps and was a member of the US Marine Corps League of Lake County Detachment 801.  He worked for Illinois Tool Works in the Paslode division for many years before he retired.  John enjoyed spending time with his grandkids.  Some of his happiest times were camping with his family with the Faith Baptist friends and later enjoying the “Friends for Decades” group.  Also, his friends from Maranatha Baptist.  And his friends from Paslode.   And, neighborhood friends.  And friends from Wheeling High School.  He also enjoyed going on Lake County Honor Flight #16 with his daughter Sherry as his guardian.   

John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Kotarba, his children Sherry (David) Hannan, John (Amber) Kotarba Jr., and Stacey Kotarba, his grandchildren Michelle Hannan, Jimmy Hannan, Katerina Kotarba, and Mia Kotarba, and his brother Joseph (Valerie) Kotarba.  He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Robert Kotarba.  

A visitation is scheduled for Monday, February 17, 2025 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm.  The funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church 301 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 at 10:00am.  Interment will follow the service at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org of contact (847)223-8122. 

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/R29PXFFD8CWHKSB5

Jacob Edward Winter, born on January 21, 1979, logged out of this world on February 4, 2025. Brilliant, hilarious, and unapologetically himself, Jake kept everyone guessing. Was he a tech wizard? A modern-day ninja? Or both? Jake is survived by his parents, Bob and Ann; his sister, Mitta (Melissa); brother-in-law, Kenji; nephews, Satori and Makana; niece, Maia; and his beloved bird, Wyatt.

Jake’s love for technology started young, taking apart computers just to see how they worked. Video games became his passion, and virtual reality was his new adventure. He worked at Oracle for over a decade—doing something brilliant, though no one is quite sure what. 

A founding member and elder at Fierce Church, Jake found faith, community, and a well-earned break from family debates.

Jake was a legendary uncle, a loyal friend, a wonderful son, and the best brother anyone could ask for. His absence leaves a space no amount of tech support can fix. 

A celebration of his life will be held on February 15 at 10 a.m. at Fierce Church, 954 Brae Loch Rd, Grayslake, IL. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Fierce Church. Rest easy little buddy!

Jake—may your afterlife be filled with high scores and the fastest internet connection imaginable.  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.