Maureen Therese Slanicky

Maureen Therese Slanicky, 77, of Naperville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, at Bickford of Aurora while courageously battling Alzheimer's disease for more than a decade.

Born on October 16, 1947, in Chicago to Harold and Esther Bauer, Maureen was the eldest of five children. She was part of the first graduating class of Queen of Peace High School in 1966 and went on to earn her teaching degree from DePaul University. She began her career teaching high school English at Mother McAuley High School before devoting her time to raising her family. Once her daughters were in school, she returned to education as a dedicated Home Bound tutor for District 203 in Naperville.

Faith and service were central to Maureen's life. A longtime parishioner of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Naperville, she served in many roles over the years, including Eucharistic Minister, secretary for the Transitional Housing Ministry, and religious education teacher for second graders. A breast cancer survivor, she faced life's challenges with quiet strength, grace, and unwavering faith.

She shared 51 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Charles, and together they built a strong foundation of love and family. Maureen is survived by her three daughters: Julie (Steven) Sarno of Montgomery, IL; Megan (James) Gille of Waukesha, WI; and Kara (John) Swanson of Sugar Grove, IL. She was the proud grandmother of two grandsons, Tyler Swanson and Parker Swanson, who brought her immense joy.

Maureen is also survived by her siblings, Dan (Sue) Bauer and Mary Ellen Baron. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Charles; her sister, Kathy Bauer; and her brother, John Bauer.

Those who knew Maureen will remember her warmth, devotion, and deep love for her family. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and resilience.

Visitation will be held on Thursday September 4, 2025, from 4:00-8:00 PM at Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 44 S. Mill Street, Naperville. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday September 5, 2025, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Naperville. Interment will be at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, alongside her loving husband, Charles.