Linda Catherine Junak

Linda Junak (nee Hoevel) passed away on January 21, 2025, surrounded by family at NWCH, Arlington Heights, Illinois.
Beloved wife of the late Jerry Junak; loving mother of Michele (Shane) Sylvester; adored grandmother of Riley and Cassie; loving daughter of the late Happy and Clara Hoevel; devoted sister of Paul (Liz) Hoevel and Don (Dorie) Hoevel; fond aunt of Brian (Laura) Szady, Jennifer (Alan) Landry, Samantha (Kyle) Kujawa, and Zachary Hoevel; caring great aunt to Luke, Alani, Nila and Teagan; dear cousin, friend to many, and paw-some dog mom to Willow.
Linda was born in Chicago, Illinois and was raised in Riverdale, before moving to Palatine. Linda was an avid racing fan, and when she was not in the stands, you would find her watching races at home. Indy car racing went hand in hand with family throughout her life. When not enjoying racing, you could find her cheering on Dancing with the Stars, college football, basketball (especially March Madness), and her beloved Chicago Blackhawks.
Linda will be remembered for her quick wit and sense of humor. Her proud Hungarian heritage would inspire the tradition of making and sharing zsíros kenyér (bacon bread). She loved to host family and friends for holidays, special occasions, and important sporting events where hors d'oeuvres were always plentiful and dinnertime never a priority. But most of all, at these gatherings, all guests became family.
A visitation will take place on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 3-8PM at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E. Northwest Hwy., Palatine, IL. A funeral service will begin at 6PM. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Linda's honor to Chicagoland Dog Rescue, P.O. Box 68808, Schaumburg, IL, 60168.
For additional information, 847-359-8020.