Karin Walczak Gasero Obituary

Karin J. Walczak Gasero passed away peacefully on June 18, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and light. Born on May 6, 1960, in Evanston, Illinois, at St. Francis Hospital, Karin grew up in Skokie before moving to Morton Grove, where she made her home and her heart known to many.
A graduate of Niles West High School, Karin pursued her passion for faith and learning at Oakton Community College, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Theology. Her deep spiritual foundation guided her through every chapter of her life and inspired all who knew her.
Karin is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 42 years, Tony Gasero-the love of her life and partner in countless adventures. Their love story began with serendipity and a spark at Tony's brother's wedding and blossomed into a lifetime of shared dreams. From surprise proposals at Disney World to dancing beneath the Eiffel Tower and walking through the cherry blossoms of Japan, their love was the kind that inspires poetry-and postcards.
Karin and Tony made their home in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois, where they lived for nearly 30 years. It was there they raised their two beloved daughters, Dina Schleich (Mike) and Taylor Kulick (Matt), building a life full of warmth, faith, and unforgettable memories.
She is also survived by her cherished sister, Gail Walczak, and her nephews Ryan Porter (Sarah Alaniz), Alex Porter (Amanda Call-Porter), niece, Emily Swiatek, and grand-nephew Owen Porter. Karin was the devoted daughter of the late Edmund Walczak and Dorene Siebenbrodt.
Karin's heart was as vast as her smile was bright. She lit up every room-fashionably late, as queens do-and exuded grace, charm, and unapologetic sparkle. She was a tireless hostess, a fierce advocate for causes close to her heart, and a nurturer to people and plants alike. Her garden, lovingly cultivated with her husband, became a sanctuary of beauty and peace.
A strong and savvy businesswoman, Karin brought confidence and wit to every endeavor. Her family lovingly called her the "stubborn Pollock," and her nickname "Ida" (short for "I'd rather not pay full price") was proudly displayed on her license plate, a badge of her clever and resourceful spirit.
Above all, Karin was a woman of immense faith. She quoted scripture with ease and comforted with grace. Her koi pond, adorned with dragonflies and a cascading waterfall gifted by Tony, was her sacred place for prayer and reflection.
Karin's love extended far beyond her family. She made everyone feel like they belonged-welcoming friends as family, feeding souls with warmth and wisdom, and collecting angel figurines that reflected the one she already was. Hearts, dragonflies, and angel wings were the symbols of her spirit, and now, they are the signs of her presence.
Her family hosted an intimate Celebration of Life in Karin's honor in their new home in Panama City Beach, Florida. Formal invitation cards to an online-only memorial will be made available shortly for all those who wish to participate in a beautiful walk through Karin's Journey. You are welcome to reach out to her daughter, Dina Schleich, at [email protected] for more details.
As we walk forward in life, may we find her in the sparkle of sunlight, the flutter of wings, or the vibrating hum of a dragonfly. She is with us still, in every step and every heart she touched.
Rest in peace, Karin-our queen, our light, our angel.
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