Obituary: Mary E. Rechka

May 12, 1937 – August 3, 2023

Mary E. Rechka, 86 years of Sturgeon Bay formerly of Chicago, died Thursday morning August 3, 2023.

She was born May 12, 1937, in Chicago, the daughter of the late Thomas Lavin and Marie (Quinlan) Smith.  Following high school, Mary received her undergraduate degree from Roosevelt University before obtaining her MBA from Loyola University.  Mary’s career spanned over 40 years in management throughout the health care industry in Illinois.  For the last 16 years of her career, she managed a division of Advocate Health Care until her retirement in 2016.  Mary moved to Door County with her daughter and caregiver, Peggy, in 2018. 

As you can tell, Mary lived to work and loved it.  She also enjoyed needlework, crocheting, and reading, all things that would slowly leave her as the progression of Alzheimer’s would finally take her physical life.

The surviving family includes her three children, Peggy I. Rechka of Sturgeon Bay, Lynn M. Baker of Westchester, IL, Steven C. Rechka of Chicago Heights, IL; two grandchildren, Joshua Baker, and Zachariah (Hannah) Baker; and sister-in-law, Rose Smith.

Preceding her in death were her parents, and brother, Mike Smith. 

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 9, 2023 from 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapel in Roselle, Illinois (450 W Lake St, Roselle, IL 60172).

Memorials may be made in her memory at your local animal shelter.

Special thanks to Compassus Hospice for their care and concern extended to our mother, Mary, in her last days.
Huehns Funeral Home and Door County Crematory are assisting the family with local arrangements.  Sign online register, offer condolences, and share memories at www.huehnsfuneralhome.com.