Helen Lakich Krup

Obituary of Helen Lakich Krup

Helen Lakich Krup, age 94 of Shorewood, IL, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, February, 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, intelligence, and dedication to education. She was born on May 14, 1931, in Milwaukee, WI.

Helen graduated from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science in Education. She devoted 33 years to teaching four and five-year-olds in the Milwaukee area, shaping countless young lives with patience, empathy, and inspiration. She also worked on programs supporting children with learning disabilities, demonstrating her deep commitment to ensuring every child had the opportunity to learn and thrive. She was widely known as a teacher who was inspiring, patient, dedicated, and compassionate.

Helen had a lifelong love of learning. She was an avid reader, enjoyed watching documentaries, and was known for her impressive vocabulary and sharp intellect. Stylish and expressive, she loved fashion and was especially fond of hats. Her wit, intelligence, warmth, and sense of humor made her beloved by all who knew her. She will be remembered as kind, personable, and endlessly engaging.

Helen and her late husband, Anthony, made their home in Mequon, Wisconsin, where she delighted in the wildlife surrounding their property. In 2015, Helen moved to Florida, where she met her partner, Joseph T. Holzgethan. In 2022, they relocated to Shorewood, Illinois, to be closer to Joseph's family.

She had a deep love for animals and cherished pets, especially the Siamese cat, Noah, who brought her great comfort and joy. Helen's warmth, grace, and generous spirit touched many lives. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Dragomir and Jovanka Lakich; her brother, Milivoy Lakich; her husband, Anthony Krup; and partner, Joseph T. Holzgethan.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Joseph S. Holzgethan Memorial Scholarship c/o Aurora University, Attn: Lori Steiner, 347 S. Gladstone, Aurora, IL 60506, would be appreciated.

Funeral Services for Helen Lakich Krup will be held privately by the family. As it was her request, cremation rites have been accorded.

For more information, please call the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home at 815-741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com.