Gertrude T. "Gert" Ricchio

Gertrude T. "Gert" Ricchio, 96, passed away February 11, 2026 at home, with family by her side. She was born September 3, 1929 in Chicago, to the late John and Rose Barry.

Beloved wife to the late Frank Ricchio; dearest mom of Frank (Cheryl), Vicki (Al) Pattenaude and Richard (Violet); loving grandmother of Jill (Paul), Jean (Chris), Frank (Amanda), Rick (Anna), Greg (Katie), Christine (Howie), Lisa, Karen (Chuck) and Richard (Sarah); loving great grandmother of James, Claire, Grant, Kristin, Stella, Frank, Liliana, Evan, Cameron, Ariana, Blake, Mason, Campbell, Robby, Kiara, Aaron, Sophia, Howie, Charlie, Ella, Olivia and Giuliana. Cherished sister to Beatrice DeBartolo, the late Ruth Poore, and the late John Barry. Dear aunt to many nieces and nephews.

We remember our Mom as a woman whose heart belonged first and always to her family. Nothing brought her greater joy than the people she loved. She put her children and grandchildren above everything else. She was endlessly curious about their accomplishments, no matter how big or small. From sports, school projects to career milestones, she followed their journeys with genuine interest and pride.

Our Mom was a woman of many talents and interests throughout her life. Each hobby or job was a reflection of her creativity and willingness to learn something new. She embraced life with curiosity, never afraid to try her hand at something different.

One of her most endearing qualities was her ability to laugh at herself. Her laughter, especially when directed at her own little missteps, made those around her feel at ease and reminded us not to take ourselves too seriously.

The lessons she taught us about family, devotion, resilience and humor will remain with us always. Her spirit will live on in her family and the love and laughter she shared with all of us.

Visitation from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 North York Street, Elmhurst. Family and Friends to meet at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 46 North Wolf Road, Northlake on Monday, February 16, 2026 for Mass at 9:30 a.m. Interment Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside.

Arrangements in care of Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home. For information (630) 834 – 1133.