Gloria Stanek

Gloria (Anderson) Stanek, of Zionsville, Indiana, passed peacefully into her eternal home on September 9, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on January 6, 1928, in Oak Park, IL, she was the beloved daughter of Clarence and Lillian (Vondrash) Anderson and the cherished younger sister of her brother, Andy. Gloria lived a full and meaningful life, marked by perseverance, joy, love, and selfless contribution. She embraced each of her 97 years with grace, a competitive spirit, and deep affection for those around her.

Gloria lived a life grounded in Christian faith, compassion, and the unwavering love for her family. As the beloved matriarch of four generations, she had a remarkable ability to connect with others, making everyone she met feel valued and cherished. Her strong work ethic and boundless enthusiasm were evident in everything she undertook, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her. Gloria consistently made herself available to serve others. Whether responding to prayer requests, providing clothing for young students, ensuring food security for local families, or offering a simple ride to church, she embraced each act of kindness as part of her calling.

Through an introduction by her future sister-in-law, Helen (Stanek) Dean, Gloria met her husband, John A. “Jack” Stanek. The two connected in a Business Law class at Morton College in Cicero, IL where they both earned associate degrees in 1948. They were married on September 3, 1950. Gloria and Jack began their family in Berwyn, IL and, after a brief time in Fort Wayne, IN, established their permanent home on the east side of Indianapolis. They shared 40 loving years of marriage before Jack’s passing.

While Jack built his law practice, Gloria dedicated herself to looking after their parents, raising four children, and managing the home. In 1969, she began a 25-year career with the Indiana High School Athletic Association, serving as both office manager and executive assistant to the Assistant Commissioner. Her career choice was a natural fit, given her love for youth sports. During her professional journey, Gloria achieved a personal milestone by earning her bachelor’s degree in business administration from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College in 1980.

Gloria embraced many roles in her life—mother, wife, mother-in-law, sister, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dear friend. She remained actively engaged in life through the love of her family and the experiences they shared together. Gloria found joy in everything she did and lived each day with a vibrant spirit. She was a proud member of the ladies’ golf club, Penny Putters, for 25 years, and bowled with the Jubilee Divas for 20 years. For more than 36 years, she was an active member and devoted volunteer at Zionsville Presbyterian Church, where her faith and community service were deeply rooted. One of Gloria’s greatest joys was supporting her grandchildren and great-grandchildren—rarely missing a sporting event, musical performance, dance recital, or graduation. She was immensely proud of her family’s accomplishments and led by example, offering love, encouragement, and unwavering support. Food was one of Gloria’s love languages. If you had the pleasure of sitting at her table, you left full and happy—especially when she served her famous roast pork, dumplings, sauerkraut, and kolache.

Gloria was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Stanek; her brother, Clarence Anderson; her daughter-in-law, Nancy Stanek; and her grandson, Joseph Stanek. She is survived by her children: Steve Stanek of Indianapolis, IN; Linda Rauh (Steve) of Indianapolis, IN; Jean Neely (John) of Zionsville, IN; and Tom Stanek (Gayle) of Villa Hills, KY. Gloria also leaves behind 10 cherished grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored, as well as numerous nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the exceptional doctors, nurses, and care teams at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital/Heart Center, Hoosier Village Retirement Community, Aseracare, and HomeWell Care Services for the compassionate care and attention given to Gloria.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 17, at Leppert Mortuary: 740 East 86th Street, Indianapolis. Visitation will take place from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 1:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Salem Cemetery in Zionsville, with a reception to be held afterward at Zionsville Presbyterian Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Gloria’s memory to the Food Pantry at Zionsville Presbyterian Church at 4775 W. 116th Street, Zionsville, IN 46077.