Theresa Raschke

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Theresa Jo "Teri" Raschke of Lemont, IL on August 22, 2025 at the age of 78, surrounded by the love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of joy, creativity, and devotion that will never be forgotten.

Family was the center of her world, and she cherished her children and grandchildren above all else. She gave selflessly, and created a home filled with laughter, warmth and unforgettable memories.

Those who knew her will remember her wit, her joyful spirit, and the way she left a lasting impression wherever she went. She had a gift for making the ordinary extraordinary, from bringing an endless amount of imagination to day to day life to creating holiday celebrations that were nothing short of spectacular, staging full scale haunted houses on Halloween and creating a Christmas wonderland complete with presents hanging from the ceiling. Her log home was always full of warmth and decorated with her unique, maximalist style. She was a talented seamstress, best known for her beautiful heart pillows, which reflected the love she poured into every stitch.

She had a tender heart for all creatures, offering a home to many rescue pets over the years. She found daily joy in her yard which came alive like a Disney film, filled with birds, deer, the world's fattest squirrels, and other wildlife drawn to the safe space she created for them.

She also loved games of every kind, including Kismet, Rummikub, Scrabble, dice or card games, and even computer games. Competitive, sharp, and quick witted, she often gathered loved ones around the table, creating connection and laughter over friendly competition and cheeky commentary. In quiet moments, she found joy in playing alone, relishing the sense of challenge and accomplishment.

She was as unforgettable in her work as she was in her home life and took great pride in leaving her mark. Known to many as "the best damn waitress you've ever seen", she quickly rose through the ranks to waitstaff leadership at multiple restaurants, including Cattle Company and Patsby's. Later, she took a leap of faith and carved out a new path for herself, successfully establishing, running, and selling her own business, Home & Hearth Tree Service. Her fierce independence and pride were unmatched and inspirational.

Beloved wife of Terry Dauner for 22 years. Loving mother to Lisa (Brad) Morgan, Dean Raschke, Sara (Frank Villanueva) Raschke and Becky (Adam Hrycyk) Raschke. Devoted stepmother to Angela Dauner, Jason Dauner, Terry (Kristen) Dauner Jr., and Matthew (Shila) Dauner. Cherished grandmother to Austin and Haley Morgan, Mia and Olivia Raschke, Niko and Nova Raschke, Oliver and Lylah Hrycyk, David and Derik Epling, and Amelia, Gemma and Clara Dauner.

Memorial Visitation Wednesday, August 27th, 2025 from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien, IL.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Autism Speaks, ASPCA, or Gift of Adoption.