Mary Regina Heidkamp-Hajduch

It is with great love and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Regina Heidkamp-Hajduch (Gina), who entered Heaven surrounded by her family at Northwestern Community Hospital. We like to believe that Gina was laughin' and a-runnin', skippin' and a-jumpin' right into Heaven, just as she lived her life —joyfully, freely, and always with a smile.

Gina was born on June 12, 1961, to the late Mary and Thomas Heidkamp. She was a woman with a heart as vast as her spirit. Gina’s journey with love began when she met Tom Hajduch 28 years ago. On their second date, she took him to a nursing home - a typical Gina move - as she always had a soft spot for those in need, whether it was a person or a cause. Her generosity knew no bounds, and she very often put others before herself. After their second date together, Tom knew he had found someone truly special, and he was smitten. And so, their love story unfolded with Gina, his forever "Girlfriend."

A woman of simplicity, Gina was the perfect match for Tom. While she loved traveling, whether it was internationally or to Wisconsin's Northwoods, she believed that it was the company that mattered most, not the destination. Gina was a wife, mother, bonus mom, grandmother, sister, aunt, and great-aunt. Above all, she was loved deeply by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Gina’s wisdom, wit, and kindness were always present, even in the face of challenges. Though she was stripped of memories and words toward the end of her life, she never lost the light that radiated from within her. Her love, humor, and gentle spirit will remain with us forever. Until we meet again, "Gina Baby", sleep well and know you will always be in our hearts.

Gina is survived by her loving husband, Tom Hajduch, her children and bonus children: Vince (Vivien) Heidkamp, Katherine (Terry) Banich, Andrew Hajduch, Becki (Pat) Drewke, and her precious granddaughter Asha. She is also survived by her siblings: Thomas Heidkamp, Tracey (Albert) Joya, Aileen (Dan) Heidkamp, Gerard (Cindey) Heidkamp, and Patty (John) Godfrey. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mary and Thomas Heidkamp, and her in-laws, David and Norma Hajduch.

In lieu of flowers or donations, Gina would be deeply touched if you honored her memory by giving the gift of your time in service to others. She always believed in the power of kindness and connection. Consider visiting a nursing home and spending time with someone who may not have visitors, volunteering at an animal shelter, or simply opening the door for someone in need. Small acts of kindness, in Gina’s spirit, are the greatest tribute to her life.

A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, November 15, 2024 from 4-8pm at Lauterburg & Oehler Funeral Home, 2000 East Northwest Highway, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. A funeral service will take place Saturday, November 16, 2024 at 10am at St. James Catholic Church, 820 N Arlington Heights Rd, Arlington Heights, IL 60004. A graveside service follow immediately after at Memory Gardens Cemetery, 2501 E Euclid Ave, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.