Mary (Bischel) Rakunas

Mary (Bischel) Rakunas, age 78, of St. Charles, IL, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 19, 1946, in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, she was the daughter of Leo and Lucy (Ruff) Bischel. Raised on a dairy farm alongside her six older brothers, Mary learned the value of hard work and family from an early age. She graduated from McDonell Central Catholic High School in Chippewa, Wisconsin, before pursuing her nursing degree at the College of St. Teresa in Winona, Minnesota.

Mary began her nursing career at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Denver, Colorado, before marrying Larry Rakunas on September 12, 1970. Shortly after, the couple relocated to the Chicago area, where she continued her nursing career at La Grange Hospital and Hines Veterans Hospital until the birth of their first child.

Mary's greatest joy came from caring for her family and friends. She took immense pride in preparing homemade meals and was always present to cheer on her children and grandchildren at their sporting events and concerts. An active member of her community, Mary volunteered at her children's school, her church, and the Well Child Center.

Mary loved to travel with her husband, extended family, and friends, cherishing the opportunity to share new experiences. Above all, she was happiest when gathered around the table, surrounded by loved ones. Her unwavering dedication to her family and community, combined with her warm, caring spirit, left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Mary’s legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness will be deeply missed.

Mary is survived by her husband of 54 years Larry; children Jill (Ross) Niemi of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, Eric (Kelly) Rakunas of St. Charles, and Kara (Scott) Boyle of LaGrange Park; grandchildren Ethan and John Niemi, Charlie and Bryce Rakunas, and Lucy and Ruby Boyle; brothers Harold (Sharon), William, Thomas, and Mark (Patricia) Bischel; and many dear nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings Daniel and Peter; and sisters-in-law Kathryn, Janice, and Carol.

Visitation will be held Thursday, December 26, 2024 from 4:00-8:00pm  at Malone funeral Home, 324 E. State Street (Route 38), Geneva with a liturgical wake service 7:45 pm.

Celebration of Funeral Mass  will be held Friday, December 27, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Peter Catholic Church, 1891 Kaneville Road, Geneva for with Father Ryan Browning Celebrant.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyyzW4nbzq8

Burial will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Corbella Clinic in South Elgin, IL. 101 E State St, South Elgin, IL 60177 https://apps.skycog.com/olg/fvp/Donate.aspx

Information 630-232- 8233 or visit malonefh.com.

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