Joanne C. Slusarski

In Loving Memory of Joanne Slusarski (nee Gach) January 30, 1935 – October 18, 2025

Joanne Slusarski passed away peacefully in the early afternoon hours of Saturday, October 18th, 2025, surrounded by the love and presence of her family.

Born on January 30, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Joanne was the cherished daughter of the late Kaspar and Catherine (née Velchek) Gach. She was the beloved wife of the late Donald P. Slusarski, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and devotion.

Joanne was a loving mother to Don (Cindy) Slusarski, Donna (Al) Brunmeier, Doug (Valerie) Slusarski, David (Julie) Slusarski, Dennis (Debra) Slusarski, Dale (Laura) Slusarski, and Diane (Tony) Malkusak. She was a proud grandmother of 21 and a joyful great-grandmother of 15. She is also survived by her dear sister Betty (late Carl) Kenny and was preceded in death by her brother Charles Gach.

Joanne’s life was a testament to kindness, patience, and unconditional love. She was a devoted wife and mother whose gentle spirit and radiant smile brought warmth and joy to everyone around her. Her home was always open, her heart always full, and her love for children—her own and those she cared for—was boundless.

She found joy in the simple pleasures: playing cards and games, solving crosswords, and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Cooking and baking were the way Joanne shared her love and showed her appreciation. You could expect a pineapple upside down cake as a sign of thanks. Her laughter, wisdom, and grace will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Joanne leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Joanne's name to Lightways Hospice would be appreciated. https://lightways.org/donate/

The family will receive friends at St. Jude’s Catholic Church 241 W. Second Ave, New Lenox, IL on Saturday, November 22, 2025, from 9:00 am until time of the Mass at 10:00 am.