Marie H. Gancarz

Marie H. Gancarz, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away on January 31, 2025, at the age of 86, in Oak Lawn, IL. Born on July 17, 1938, in Chicago, IL, Marie lived a life marked by adventure, education, and an unwavering commitment to her family, friends, and community.
Marie was the beloved wife of the late Raymond Randolph, and the cherished daughter of the late Stanley and the late Marie (nee Jarosz). She held her family at the center of her heart, including her loving cousins, the late Patricia Klimala, Gregory (Jo Ann) Walega, and Francine (Frank) Modelski. Marie was also the devoted Cuz to Stacy (David) Henning, Jennifer (Timothy) Lessek, and Christina (Andrew) Brunsen, and the adored great-Cuz to Lani, Ryan, Teagan, Jacob, Cameron, Charlie, and Adam. Her life was a tapestry woven with the love of her many cousins, wonderful friends, and extended family.
Her educational journey began at St. Pancratius Catholic Elementary School and continued at Kelly High School. Marie's passion for learning and teaching led her to earn a teaching degree from Chicago Teacher's State. She shared her knowledge and wisdom as a teacher at Kelly High School and Curie High School and as a counselor at several schools, touching the lives of countless students along the way.
Marie's love extended beyond the classroom. She was a dedicated caregiver for her parents, her cousin Pat Klimala, and her husband Ray. Her zest for life was evident in her hobbies; she loved to play tennis, golf, and bowl. Her melodious voice found a home in the Moraine Valley Chorale and Chamber Singers, where she sang with joy and passion.
An active member of her community, Marie was involved in the Archer Road Kiwanis and the Aquin Guild. She found great pleasure in art, theater, and opera, and her adventurous spirit was fulfilled through her love of travel. Marie took pride in her Polish heritage, and her faith was a cornerstone of her existence.
Those who knew Marie would describe her as loving, kind, and adventurous. She had a heart that never seemed to run out of room for others, and her presence was a source of comfort and joy to those around her. Family and friends were the essence of her life, and she nurtured her relationships with the same care and attention that she gave to her beloved students.
Marie's legacy is one of compassion, dedication, and a life lived fully. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those she left behind. As we remember Marie, we celebrate a life that was truly well-lived, filled with laughter, love, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place, one kind act at a time.
In honor of Marie's remarkable life, a visitation will be held on Friday, February 7, 2025 from 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien. A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025 at 10:00 am at St. Germaine Church, 9711 S. Kolin Ave., Oak Lawn. Please meet at church. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery will immediately follow church services.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Our Lady at St. Germaine Parish, 9711 S. Kolin Avenue, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 or Moraine Chorale, Attn: Nick Thomas, Moraine Valley Community College, 9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills, IL 60465 are appreciated.