Cynthia Janet Zaugra

Cynthia “Cindy” Janet Zaugra, beloved mother, grandmother and Gigi, known for her remarkable strength and unwavering love, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, on November 28, 2025, at the age of 76.

Born on March 28, 1949, in Aurora, Ill., Cindy devoted her life to caring for others – both at home and in the classroom. As a dedicated educator for many years, she made a lasting impact on countless young lives and her fellow colleagues.

Cindy married the love of her life, Michael (Mike) Zaugra, in 1973, and together they built a beautiful marriage and family. Mike’s passing at the age of 48 was a profound loss, yet Cindy carried his memory forward with courage, grace, and a fierce dedication to their family.

She is survived by her dearly loved family: daughter Amy and her daughters Natalia — with her fiancé Ryan, and their son, Macklin – Annika, Penelope, and their father Kenny; daughter Melissa, her partner, Charlie, and her children Elliana – with her husband, Jeff, and their sons, Milo and Ryder – Jayden and his partner, Taitiana, and Izabella; and her son Timothy, his wife, Jaime, and their children, Jaxon and Cadence.

She is also survived by her sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, nieces, nephews, friends, former colleagues, and fellow residents at Primrose Senior Living Community – everyone she met became a friend. Cindy was also beloved by her dog, Millie, who brought her constant joy and companionship.

Cindy was preceded in death by her husband, Mike; her parents, Margaret and Harold Bastian; and her brother, Tom Bastian.

Her presence was a steady source of comfort and encouragement – she was the one who listened, who showed up and who supported without hesitation. Her legacy will continue through the family she raised, the students she inspired, and the countless lives she touched.

A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held on Sunday, December 14th from 1:00pm until time of Memorial Service at 4:00pm, at Marsh Funeral Home, 305 N Cemetery Rd, Gurnee, IL 60031. Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor the remarkable woman she was.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105) in honor of Cindy’s lifelong dedication to children.