Catherine Gajewski, 69, of Wheaton, Illinois (formerly of Chicago) passed away peacefully at her home on December 10, 2025. Cathy was a cherished aunt and parent to Claire and Abby Tarvin, a loving companion to Danny Graff, a dear sister to Rob(Michelle) and Judy Tala(Martin) and a fond aunt to Ben and Aly. She was preceded in death by her sister Marianne and parents, Anne and Bob.
Cathy grew up in Berwyn, Illinois and graduated from Morton West High School. She continued her education at the College of St. Mary in Omaha, Nebraska, earning her associate's degree. During her studies, she had the opportunity to study abroad in Ireland, where she developed a lifelong passion for Irish culture—especially its music, vibrant pubs, and, most importantly, the enduring friendships she made and cherished throughout her life.
Professionally, Cathy distinguished herself as a corporate event planner at Sara Lee Corporation, renowned for her unwavering professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and her calm, positive demeanor. Cathy deeply appreciated the opportunities her career provided—traveling to unique destinations and connecting with a diverse array of people, each experience enriching her life and broadening her perspective. After retiring from Sara Lee, Cathy devoted herself to charitable work with HGNA and generously volunteered at Immanuel Lutheran Church, contributing to a variety of service projects. Her commitment to serving God was evident both within her church community and beyond.
Cathy was celebrated for her boundless generosity and steadfast devotion to her loved ones. Nowhere was this more evident than in the loving and nurturing home she created for Claire and Abby after the loss of their mother. Cathy's compassion and strength provided them with comfort, stability, and unconditional love during a difficult time, embodying the very best of her caring spirit. She will be remembered for her compassion, her zest for life, and the deep bonds she formed with everyone she met. Cathy's legacy lives on in the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the memories cherished by her family and friends.
To honor and celebrate Cathy's life, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation and memorial service on Saturday, February 7, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 5211 Carpenter St, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m.
Cathy grew up in Berwyn, Illinois and graduated from Morton West High School. She continued her education at the College of St. Mary in Omaha, Nebraska, earning her associate's degree. During her studies, she had the opportunity to study abroad in Ireland, where she developed a lifelong passion for Irish culture—especially its music, vibrant pubs, and, most importantly, the enduring friendships she made and cherished throughout her life.
Professionally, Cathy distinguished herself as a corporate event planner at Sara Lee Corporation, renowned for her unwavering professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and her calm, positive demeanor. Cathy deeply appreciated the opportunities her career provided—traveling to unique destinations and connecting with a diverse array of people, each experience enriching her life and broadening her perspective. After retiring from Sara Lee, Cathy devoted herself to charitable work with HGNA and generously volunteered at Immanuel Lutheran Church, contributing to a variety of service projects. Her commitment to serving God was evident both within her church community and beyond.
Cathy was celebrated for her boundless generosity and steadfast devotion to her loved ones. Nowhere was this more evident than in the loving and nurturing home she created for Claire and Abby after the loss of their mother. Cathy's compassion and strength provided them with comfort, stability, and unconditional love during a difficult time, embodying the very best of her caring spirit. She will be remembered for her compassion, her zest for life, and the deep bonds she formed with everyone she met. Cathy's legacy lives on in the love she gave, the joy she spread, and the memories cherished by her family and friends.
To honor and celebrate Cathy's life, family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation and memorial service on Saturday, February 7, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 5211 Carpenter St, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Visitation will be held from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a service at 11:00 a.m.
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