Obituaries

We will update the list of names of our deceased warriors on a monthly basis. We will not place a person on this list with hearsay, second hand, information. Send us a link to the obituary, noting the date and name of the newspaper from which it was taken. If you don't have the obit, then you must be related to, or a close friend who attended the wake, funeral or memorial service.

May 2026
Susan Zuccarini '78
William Nagel '67
George Corcoran '68
Toby Gilbert '76
Amanda Groeller '08
Donna Robertson '70
Jean Kennedy '74
Robert Mack '68
Pamela Andrey Buttner '70
Susan Zuccarini - Class '78
Susan M Zuccarini, 66, of Crystal Lake, IL, passed away unexpectedly on April 13, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born January 25, 1960 in Chicago. “Sue” was a strong-willed, big-hearted leader whose presence deeply shaped those around her. A devoted matriarch, hardworking professional, and caretaker, she embraced life fully while appreciating its simple joys. Raised in Des Plaines, IL, by her parents Beverly and Eugene, Sue lived by their belief: never quit. The only girl among two brothers, she grew into a determined athlete, competing in swimming, softball, and basketball. She earned a bachelor's degree in food and education from Illinois State University. Sue was selfless, kind, brave, and quick-witted, with a competitive spirit that carried into all areas of life. She was a constant source of strength, someone you could call anytime, “solid as a rock.” She loved bargain hunting, traveling, reading, DIY projects, and landscaping, approaching everything with vibrant energy. Family was her greatest priority. She worked tirelessly to instill strong values and an unbreakable bond that now extends across two generations of more than 14 children and grandchildren. Sue had a rare gift for balance: offering steady support without judgment, listening deeply while guiding others forward, and standing firm in her beliefs with compassion. She never gave up and inspired others to persevere. With her warm humor, sharp mind, and ability to make others feel accepted, Sue left a lasting impact. Her legacy of love, wisdom, and strength will live on in her family and all who knew her. Though deeply missed, she remains present in the way they live, love, and care for one another. Susan is survived by her mother, Beverly; her children, Michael Chrystal (Tanya), Sean Chrystal (Danielle), Lauren Chrystal (Tyler), and Brendan Chrystal (Stephanie); her grandchildren, Maximus, Raelyn, Hayden, Blakely, and Xander; and her siblings, Steven and Bob Zuccarini. Celebration of Life: Saturday, May 16, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake, Illinois. Guests are encouraged to wear elegant spring attire in honor of Susan's bright spirit. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Bee Foundation in Susan's honor.
William Nagel - Class '67
William A. Nagel, 76, of Apple Valley, MN, passed away on April 9, 2026. After graduating from Maine West High School in Des Plaines, IL, he attended Macalester College on a football scholarship and graduated from Augsburg University with a degree in psychology. He married his high school sweetheart Laura in 1988 and took on his greatest role as stepfather to John and Jenny Kozubik. Bill loved his five grandchildren, delighted in their accomplishments, and enjoyed spending time with them. Bill’s life and accomplishments were a testament to his courage and resilience. His careers spanned the gamut, from acting at the Guthrie to training manager for the Minnesota Department of Corrections. In between, he trained Honeywell sales reps both nationally and abroad, was an instructor for Wilson Learning, and lead Culture Change at Banta Publishing. He enjoyed a respectable round of golf with his life-long college friends, Sunday afternoon football, and weekend coffee gatherings with his neighbors. He could quote from many of the books he read, especially Vonnegut, and could discuss WWII in detail. He was insightful, perceptive, honest, and fair; with a sense of humor that could be both witty and dark. His greatest accomplishment was raising his stepchildren to be educated, responsible adults, loving spouses, and nurturing parents. His fondest memories were summer vacations in the Boundary Waters where he instilled a love of the outdoors in them, and they in turn have raised his grandchildren to seek pleasure in nature. Bill is survived by his wife of thirty-eight years, Laura; John and Shannon Kozubik and their children, John Thomas, Katherine, and Benedict; Jenny and Drew Keto and their children, Anna and Sara; sister, Kathy Collet; sister-in-law, Portia Nagel; nephew, Grant Collet; nieces, Kaitlyn Collet and Mercedes (Patrick) Murtaugh; and great-nephew, Kase Collet. He is preceded in death by his grandson, Alexander Kozubik; mother, Betty King Barajas; brothers, Kurt and Dennis Nagel; and nephew, Sean Nagel. Memorial Service at 12:00pm on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Starkson Family ~ Anderson Chapel, 14850 Garrett Ave., Apple Valley, with visitation and refreshment to begin at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be given to University of Minnesota Acute Rehab Center Fund in honor of Bill Nagel.
George Corcoran - Class '68
George B. Corcoran, age 75, of Elgin, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Advocate Sherman Hospital in Elgin. George was born in Chicago on September 7, 1950, to the late George and Ruth (née Stein) Corcoran. He made his home in Elgin for the past 38 years, where he built a life centered on family, hard work, and the simple joys he loved most. George dedicated many years to his work at Town & Country Distributors and later served with care and compassion as a patient transporter at Elgin Mental Health Center. A proud Vietnam War veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Marine Corps—an experience that remained a meaningful part of his life. He was a devoted member of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in West Dundee. George had a deep passion for motorcycles, both riding and teaching others as an instructor. Known for his sharp, mechanical mind, he had a gift for fixing just about anything—often lending a helping hand whenever someone was in need. Above all, George will be remembered for his love of family. He is survived by his beloved wife and best friend of 38 years, Joanne M. (née Zurow), whom he married on November 8, 1987. He was a proud and loving father to Megan (Jeffrey) Steen and Bryan (Christine) Corcoran, and a devoted grandfather to his four grandsons, Brad, Sean, Ben, and Ryder, who brought him endless joy and pride. George is also survived by his sisters, Mary (the late David) Fiala and Pat Corcoran; his nephews, David (Sheri) Fiala and Tom Fiala; his niece, Alison Bonner; and many dear friends who will remember him for his kindness, humor, and willingness to help others. Family and friends will gather for a Memorial Service on Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in West Dundee, with Rev. Joe Glombicki officiating. George's family will be receiving friends at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in George's memory to Bethlehem Lutheran Church in West Dundee or to any veteran's organization of the donor's choice.
  Toby Gilbert - Class '76
Toby W. Gilbert, age 68, of Des Plaines, IL passed away April 23, 2026 with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife, Jane (nee Schaefges); his sons Shawn (Aaliah) and Gavin (Jessica); grandchildren Ethan Robert and Noah Liam, Gwendolyn Moon and Emmett Ryly; his niece Siobhan (Brad; sons Adam and Connor) and his sister Mary Dolores. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Mary (nee Johnson), his sisters Rebecca Gilbert and Veronica Cisco, and his nephew Jason Gilbert. He had many professional paths including owning his own landscaping business, driving trucks, and more recently real estate agent. A long-standing member of the Optimist Club of Des Plaines and Friends of Youth Services, Toby will be remembered for his generous, charitable heart, his outspoken words when it mattered (and sometimes when it didn’t) and for always finding a moment to crack a joke just to be silly. He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Uncle, and friend; and although his presence will be missed, the love he gave will never fade. A memorial visitation will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026 from 12:00 pm until 3:00 pm at G.L. Hills Funeral Home, 745 Graceland Avenue, Des Plaines, Illinois. For information, please call the funeral home at 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to assist with medical and funeral expenses. If you would like to contribute, please follow this link: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-loving-memory-of-toby-gilbert. Your support and kindness are truly appreciated.
Amanda Groeller - Class '08
Amanda Marie Groeller, 36, of Mokena, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, May 1, 2026, surrounded by the love of those closest to her after an extraordinary and courageous 19-year battle with cancer. Born on November 2, 1989, in Park Ridge, IL, Amanda was the beloved daughter of Lori and David. From the moment she entered the world, Amanda carried a quiet strength that would come to define her life. At just 17 years old, she was diagnosed with cancer—a challenge she faced with remarkable bravery, grace, and determination. She never allowed her illness to define her. Instead, she filled her life with purpose, love, and beauty, inspiring everyone around her. Amanda shared a deep and unwavering love with her husband, Christopher Johnson. Together, they built a life that was more than just a home - it was a sanctuary of warmth, laughter, and comfort. Their bond was rooted in devotion, understanding, and enduring love. Her greatest joy and proudest role was being a mother to her two sons, Nathan and Luca. They were her heart and her light. Amanda poured her love into them in every way, guiding them with gentleness, strength, and unwavering support. The love she gave them will remain a lasting part of who they are. Amanda had a special gift for making everyday life beautiful. She found joy in cooking delicious meals from scratch that brought her family together and took great pride in creating a home that felt welcoming, peaceful, and filled with love. Through her care and attention, she turned simple moments into cherished memories. Anyone who knew her would tell you that she gave the absolute best hugs. Her love and kindness could be felt in every embrace, a reminder of how deeply she cared for the people around her. She will be remembered for her kind heart, her quiet resilience, and her ability to bring comfort and beauty into the lives of others. Even in the face of hardship, she carried herself with grace and gave love so freely. Amanda is survived by her loving husband, Christopher Johnson; her cherished sons, Nathan and Luca Gomez; her devoted father, David Groeller, her mom and step father Lori Matula and Dick Lalowski; her siblings Brynn (Jeramie) Powers, Kendall (Sam) Reyna, Paul (Nick) Matula, Matthew (Rachael) Lalowski, Derick (Paige) Lalowski ; her aunts and uncles, Ken Groeller; Lorrie (Danny) Slegar, Linda Drag, Tracey (Mike) Vrenios, Jerry (Sara) Matula, Eric (LeAnne) Matula, Dawn (Brian) Rosbury; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will forever hold her in their hearts. No services are scheduled at this time.
Donna Robertson Johnson - Class '70
Donna J. Johnson, 73 years old of Antioch, IL, peacefully passed on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at her home surrounded by family. Born November 11, 1952 in Miami Beach, FL, the daughter of the late Donald and Mary Ellen (nèe Formusa) Robertson, Donna lived life defined by love of family, passion for education, and lifelong curiosity that led to diverse interests and experiences. Donna is survived by her children, Emily Fordham, Derek Johnson, Brian Johnson; her grandchildren, Bella, Zeke and Eli; her sister, Regan (John Grove) Robertson; and many extended family and friends. In addition to her parents and her husband, Robert, she was preceded in death by her sister, Julie Fletcher and her niece, Rachel Robertson. Growing up in Des Plaines IL, Donna graduated from Maine West High School and then earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from St. Norbert College in De Pere WI. From college, Donna continued to pursue higher education with focus on mental health, working and training at Forest Hospital which was then a private psychiatric facility best known for modernization of treatment methods and activity therapies. Donna met Robert ‘Bob’ Johnson in 1975, and their adventure together began when they married on May 29, 1976, buying their first home in Wauconda shortly after marriage, establishing the family in Lake County and enjoying all the region’s natural beauty. Donna owned and operated Steppingstone Montessori School in Lindenhurst, IL where she and her devoted staff helped young minds grow and thrive for many years. After retirement, Donna continued to give back to her community; in 2015 Illinois declared the monarch butterfly a species of greatest concern - Donna responded by making her property 100% pesticide-free and monarch friendly, earning an environmental note of distinction. Working on her plants, gardens and environment was one of Donna’s happiest places, besides the kitchen. Donna’s passion for good food, cooking, and sharing that knowledge is legendary, and a touching memory for those who were lucky to know her. Donna’s deeply held conviction that the long arc of humankind does lean towards justice and goodness will be carried on by all who knew Donna. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Friday, May 15, 2026 at Strang Funeral Home, 1055 Main St., Antioch, IL 60002 Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Saturday at St. Peter Catholic Church, 557 Lake St Antioch, IL 60002. All are welcome to sign the online guestbook for Donna at www.strangfh.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grass Elementary Sustainability Fund 26177 W Grass Lake Rd. Antioch IL 60002. For additional information call 847-395-4000.
Jean Kennedy - Class '74
Jean Elisabeth Kennedy ("Jeanie"), 69, passed away peacefully on May 7, 2026, in Melbourne, Florida, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on August 4, 1956, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, to David and Audrey (Ludwig) Kennedy. In 1960, Jeanie's family moved to Des Plaines, Illinois, where she was raised. She graduated from Maine West High School in 1974, where she was a member of the Pom Squad and was elected to the Brotherhood Society. She attended the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana, where she earned Dean's List honors and was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. She later completed her Bachelor's degree in Physiology at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Jeanie had many passions throughout her life, including exercise, cinema, fashion and was an avid reader. She was also an accomplished seamstress whose creativity and attention to detail reflected her vibrant personality. Professionally, Jeanie most recently served as Manager of Dental Practice and Policy for the Academy of General Dentistry, where she was respected and admired for her hard work, dedication and kindness. Prior to that, she worked for the Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons as Manager of Regulatory Affairs. Above all, Jeanie will be remembered for her selflessness and devotion to her family, especially the loving care she provided to her elderly parents during their final years. Her loved ones are forever grateful for her. She was preceded in death by her parents, David and Audrey Kennedy. She is survived by her siblings: Janice; David (Virginia); Kathleen (James) Parenti; Nancy (David) Martin; Joanne; Robert (Jennifer). She was the beloved aunt of 19 nieces and nephews and will also be deeply missed by her many cousins and dear friends from her years living in Chicago, Atlanta, and Washington D.C. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society in Jeanie's memory. A Celebration of Life will be held in early August to honor Jeanie on what would have been her 70th birthday.
Robert Mack - Class '68
Visitation for Robert B. Mack, 75, of Lake Zurich, IL, will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 12:00 PM until the time of the Funeral Service at 4:00 PM at the Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home, 201 N. Northwest Hwy., Palatine. The Interment will be private at Evergreen Cemetery, Barrington, IL. Bob was born on August 15, 1950, to Robert and Lorraine Mack. He passed away at home on Friday, May 15, 2026. Bob was a co-founder of Brokerage & Transportation Sales and dedicated over five decades to the logistics industry, which was his lifelong passion. His career left a lasting impact on the field, and he was known as a mentor to many throughout his professional journey. An avid fan of the Chicago Bears and White Sox, Bob found joy in cheering for his favorite teams. He also enjoyed golfing and maintained an active social life, including cherished gatherings with his Tuesday night dinner crew. He will be greatly missed, especially by his dog Gracie, who meant so much to him. Bob was the beloved husband of the late Janet E. Mack for 40 years; loving father of Lisa (Sean) Frainey, Laura Durgin and Bobby (Heather) Mack; cherished grandfather of Heather (Nick), Jessica (Nick), Shannon (Justin), Meghan (Will), Katrina (Christian), Danielle, Ashley, Kinsley, Camden and Kollyns; dear great-grandfather of 9; fond brother; Gary (Amy) Mack; uncle of Jennifer (Jeff) and Gary.
Pamela Andrey Buttner - Class '70
Pamela S. Buttner (nee Andre), age 73, a resident of Mt. Prospect, IL, for 38 years passed away May 14, 2026. Beloved wife of 44 years to Thomas “Tommy” Buttner. Loving mother of Jason, Ryan (Kristi), and the late Linda. Proud grandmother of one. She loved her neighbors and enjoyed spending time talking with them in her front yard. She also took great care maintaining her yard and garden, and feeding the birds that would visit. Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 20, 2026 from 10:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm at G.L. Hills Funeral Home, 745 Graceland Avenue, Des Plaines, IL. Interment to follow in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Arlington Heights, Illinois. For information, please call the funeral home at 847-699-9003 or visit www.glhillsfuneralhome.com.