Geraldine V. Gorecki (nee Markarian)

Age 83 passed away Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at Silver Cross Hospital, New Lenox, IL. Geraldine was born in Chicago, IL to the late Jerry and Dolores (nee Daul) Markarian.

Beloved wife of the late John P. Gorecki; loving mother of Karol Veurink, Linda (late Joseph) Painter, and Christina Gorecki; cherished grandmother of Kelli Williams, Robert “Bobby” Hodges, Jerry Hodges, and Hollie Fletcher; proud great grandmother of four; dear sister of Vickie (late Takis) Markos, Jerry Markarian, and Joy (late David) Williamson.

Geraldine moved to New Lenox in the early '70s where she was involved with the schools and helping as a member of the community, when her children were young. Later, she was involved with making mats for the homeless, took pride in gathering blankets towels and supplies for the local shelter, she has crocheted hats and blankets for the newborn babies at Silver Cross Hospital, also crocheting scarves for military men and women. If it anytime anyone would need anything all they had to do was ask her and she would find a way to help and get her friends to help as well.

Above all else, Geraldine treasured time spent with family and friends, many of whom she lovingly considered family. She lived an active and fulfilling life, rarely staying home for long. Whether attending bingo with her beloved Mokena ladies, participating in Fiber Arts where she taught and encouraged others to crochet, or gathering with the many crochet groups she enjoyed, Geraldine was always surrounded by friendship, laughter, and creativity.

One of the things Geraldine loved most was teaching newcomers how to crochet. She found great joy in sharing her talent and helping preserve what she believed was a beautiful and meaningful art form. Through her patience, kindness, and willingness to teach others, she helped keep the tradition of crochet alive for future generations.

Mom loved life, she loved to laugh. Her laughter was so infectious. If Mom was laughing you were at least smiling. She's the only person I know that could stop strangers in their tracks and they would laugh alongside her. Our mom was like no other that anyone has ever known. She was truly a unique and beautiful soul that touched so many lives. She will forever be missed and carried on in our hearts.

The family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, New Lenox, IL on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 2:00 pm until time of Memorial Service at 6:00 pm.