Linda Rae Naka

Linda Rae Naka, 71, of Lincolnwood, beloved wife of Dennis; loving mother of Katie (Peter Maguire) and Chris (Aden); dear grandmother of Maeve and Dana; fond sister of the late Julie Potashnick. Linda received a BS in Education from Barry College in Florida, a Masters in Education from DePaul University, and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Early Childhood Education from National-Louis University. She taught pre-k and kindergarten at Lincolnwood Public Schools from 1989-2003. Well-liked by her students and peers she tirelessly shared her energy and enthusiasm for education with the youth of Lincolnwood. A lover of music, she was an accomplished pianist and flautist in her youth and sang for many years in the choir at Sauganash Community Church. She was a devoted animal lover and Cat-mom to several beloved family pets, (Flakey, Lisa, The Kitty, and Caroline). Her greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted and supportive mother who encouraged her children in music, the arts, and academics. She loved books, reading, and finding a great deal on fashion and jewelry (something she inherited from her own mother). She was an excellent grandmother. Even as she struggled physically towards the end of her life, she was never more attentive or alert than when she was occupied with her granddaughters. She was married to Dennis for 48 years. Together they loved to travel to visit family, attend concerts and events to support their children in theatre and art. She was impacted too young by a brain tumor and struggled with the long-term effects of that illness for nearly 30 years. Diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease in 2003, she did her utmost to stay active and participated regularly in Parkinson's exercise classes and a Parkinson's choir called "The Croakers". She passed away at home, surrounded by her family. She will be missed immensely by all who knew her and experienced her kindness and joy.
A Celebration of Life will be held at some time in the near future. Feel free to refer back to this site for any updated details. Memorials may be made to The American Brain Tumor Association 2720 River Rd. Des Plaines, IL 60018. (847) 965-2500
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