Gwen E Gressel

Gwen E. Gressel, age 62, one of the world's truly good and pure souls, passed away with loved ones by her side on Juy 26, 2023. She was born February 19, 1961, in Blue Island, IL. Gwen was the embodiement of love and kindness from the moment earth knew her. The middle daughter of Eugene and Linda Gressel, she filled their home with warmth, empathy, and faith- she was the heart that held the family together. Gwen shared an unbreakable bond with her sisters Della and Melinda [Mindy], and their love for each other was an inspiration to all. 

 Gwen's love knew no bounds. She devoted her life to giving care and affection, not only to God and her family, but to everyone she encountered. She embraced this divine calling as a giver, from serving in church nurseries to touching the lives of countless children and teachers alike at daycares and preschools all across Chicago's south suburbs. Dozens of famiies cherished the example she provided their children as a deeply kind, passionate and faith-filled caregiver and 'teacher of life.' Because of her goodness, children grew up knowing how to care for one another and love unconditionally- Gwen was the example of this every day. 

Just as many families were profoundly grateful for the compassionate care she provided aging loved ones, bestowing comfort, reassurance, and faith in the twilight of their lives. And all of the God's creatures knew her love instantly, including her beloved dogs and parrots. She had a special gift for understanding and communicating with them, making them feel safe and loved in her presence. 

 Gwen's talents were as diverse as they were remarkable. In the kitchen, she was a gifted cook and baker, with hundreds of recipes memorized, and Christmas cookies that were legendary in the south suburbs. Her artistry and creativity particularily shined in her sewing and leather work-anything she saw, Gwen could and would make. This included the most original Halloween costumes- a Y2K bug, a pager, and Dumbo the elephant, to name a few-and beautiful customized belts, buckles, jewelry, and wreaths. As her love knew no bounds, neither did her creativity. 

 Holidays, espically Christmas, were Gwen's favorite. No one brought more cheer and love to celebrations than she did. She loved to decorate for any and all occasions- her favorite saying was that 'if it held still long enough,she would decorate it.' She always made sure that every Christmas light was on, and that anyone and everyone that needed help during the holidays, received it. She spread God's love each and every day (and espically during the holidays.) A woman of unwavering faith, she lived in Christ's light, living her life by the example He set, showing everyone she met love, kindness, and care. 

 Gwen will be missed by so many. By her sisters, Della and Mindy. By her nephew, Robert, and her great nephew, Gene. By her chosen families, Joseph and Teresa Falucskai and family; Harriet Kennedy; and the Baker family, of Ginny, Maggie, Sarah, and Mary, and so many more. 

 Gwen adopted so many people- as soon as she got to know you, you became part of her family and part of her life. She had a natural ability to uplift the spirits of those around her, and a genuine goodness that was an inspiration to all who knew her. She will be missed. 

A celebration of Gwen's life is being held Sunday, October 1, 2023 from 2-4pm at Idlewild Country Club. Please RSVP to Mindy at 708-601-1891 if you are able to join.