Mary Grosskopf

Mary Grosskopf, age 98, passed away peacefully 12/6/2025 at Integrated Hospice in Libertyville, Illinois.  She was surrounded by family at her passing.  

Mary was born on October 14, 1927, in Lindstrom, Minnesota, to William and Collette Carlson, and grew up in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Richard F. Grosskopf  with whom she shared 59 years of marriage, and her brothers Norbert (Lynette) Carlson and Richard (Virginia) Carlson.

Mary is survived by her children Dr. Jeffrey W. Grosskopf (Elizabeth), Thomas Jay Grosskopf (Lori), Julie Marie Grosskopf, David Alan Grosskopf, and Richard F. Grosskopf Jr. (Lori); her cherished daughter-in-law Jo Ann Kennedy, grandchildren Melissa Grosskopf, Elyse (Ramon) Garcia,  Lauren(Chris) Dudek, Bryn (Mike) Glatzel, Jessica Grosskopf,  Danielle Grosskopf, Bradley Grosskopf , Eric Grosskopf; and great-grandchildren Jane and Piper.  Her lifelong friend Sandy Geudtner will be dearly missed. Caregiver Maria Ibarra and neighbors Andrea and Tony Miranda were held in high esteem and regard by Mary and the family.

Mary discovered her love of music early, playing in the high school band in Rice Lake. She continued her education at River Falls Teachers College in River Falls, Wisconsin, where she was honored to serve as Homecoming Queen. She began her professional life as an elementary school teacher in Janesville, Wisconsin, where she met Richard.

In the years that followed, Mary built a successful and impactful career as a bookkeeper and accountant for the family construction business. She also served as property manager for the real estate ventures she and Richard developed together. Her exceptional attention to detail—every “i” dotted and every “t” crossed—was widely admired.

Holidays were Mary’s true calling to enrich the lives of her family and friends.  All were welcome at her home, and the holiday parties were festive and memorable.   Mary had a true home in her house.  You could feel it the moment you walked in.

Mary and Richard made their longtime family home in Wadsworth, Illinois, where she was a devoted member of St. Patrick’s Parish and a lifelong follower of the Catholic faith. She was active in parish groups and the school booster clubs.  Mary was also involved and served on the board of the Junior Women’s League of Waukegan.   She loved to bowl and was active for many years in the Early Birds Bowling League in Waukegan.  She was a very good bowler and often showed her family that skill at bowling outings.  A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, Mary especially loved settling in to watch the games with anyone willing to sit, relax, and cheer alongside her.

Mary lived her values quietly but deeply. She gave generously, especially during the holidays, offering help to those in need. She cherished her family, her faith, and the community she built over decades.

Mary’s warmth, humor, and steady presence will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Visitation will be held Friday December 12th from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Saint Paul the Apostle Church, 6401 Gages Lake Rd, Gurnee, Illinois.

There will be a funeral mass immediately after the visitation at Saint Paul the Apostle from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.

Following the mass, there will be a committal blessing and the entombment where Mary will be laid in her final resting place. This will take place at the chapel and on the grounds of  Ascension Cemetery 1920 Buckley Rd., Libertyville, Illinois

Flowers can be sent if so desired to Gurnee Salata Funeral Home, 4190 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, Illinois.   In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Saint Paul the Apostle Church in Mary’s name.