NANCY GASKA

Passed away suddenly on Saturday, February 1, 2025.

Nancy was born and raised in Chicago, in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, the eldest of 4 daughters.  As a child, Nancy enjoyed ballet and dance and took classes until 8th grade. Her early education also included Polish school.  Nancy attended and graduated from newly built Maria High School.  After Nancy's graduation she worked in a one-girl office in the industrial part of the city until she was married and expecting her first child.

Nancy and Rich raised the family in Chicago in the upper flat of Richard's childhood home until their family outgrew the space.  The family moved to Wauconda in 1965 into a brand-new suburban neighborhood.  As a stay-at-home mom of 4 children Nancy chose to volunteer as a Sunday school teacher, was an assistant Girl Scout leader, and spent time with other moms in the neighborhood. Nancy and her friends attended Bible study and enjoyed canning and making holiday fruitcakes.   The family remained in Wauconda until 1984 when they relocated to Lockport.  Nancy made new friends and spent time in the Butterflies group.  Nancy crocheted lap robes as a volunteer for St. Joseph Medical Center in Joliet and was recognized for her time and talent.

Later in life Rich and Nancy focused their energies caring for their aging parents and extended family in their final years.  Their actions set an example of the importance of family, compassion, and service that was passed on to the family.  Nancy and Rich spent much time with their growing family as grandchildren came along.  They were devoted to attending sporting events, artistic performances, and assorted school activities.  Other interests included attending performances with Morris Theatre Guild and Lewis University Theatre.

As her health concerns progressed, her opportunities to attend social events became limited and she spent more time at home.  Lockport became the hub for all family gatherings.   Many fond memories were made celebrating holidays as the family expanded to include great grandchildren.  Nancy moved to StoryPoint, an Assisted Living apartment, in 2024, where the environment was more accessible, and her independence expanded.  She enjoyed making connections with other residents and looked forward to sharing social opportunities with Rich that enriched her experience and gave them joy.

Nancy was dearly loved by family and friends.  Her example of service and stewardship has influenced so many. Her loving spirit will be cherished.

Preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Stella Sokolowski; son, Richard A. Gaska; grandson, Jacob Oriatti.

Survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Richard E. Gaska; loving children, Gail (John) Suffredin, Cathleen (Patrick) Oriatti and Martin (Kimberly) Gaska; dear daughter-in-law, Denise Gaska; dearest grandchildren, Stephen (fiance Samantha Cecola) Suffredin, Megan Gaska, Kevin Suffredin, Carol Marie (Jacob) O'Marrah, Rachel Oriatti, Sophie (Tommy) Johnson, Jae Gaska and Morgan (Zachary) Walker; great-grandchildren, Genevieve and Toviana; 3 dear sisters, Laura (Jack) McCorkle, Christine (Gary) Pruim and Angela (late Joe) Furlano ; many nieces and nephews.

Memorial Visitation and Funeral Mass on Monday, February 10, 2025 at St. Dennis Church in Lockport.   Visitation from 9:30am to 10:30am with Mass of Christian Burial immediately following at 10:30am.  For Info: O'Neil Funeral Home 815-838-5010 or www.oneilfuneralhome.com