Marcheta Irene Anderlik

She was born June 18, 1928, to Della and Garth Glasgow and was the twin sister of Marilyn Petzold.

Marcheta married Joseph E. Anderlik on June 11, 1950, after the two met at Kemper Insurance. Together they built a full and lively home, first in Chicago, then Deerfield, and eventually Arlington Heights, where they became members of St James parish and where all of their children attended school. Even with the constant motion of raising seven children, Marcheta’s devotion was evident not only in what she did, but in how she did it—showing up, making room, and holding family life together with warmth and resolve.

Growing up as the only children in their home, Marcheta and Marilyn shared a bond that lasted a lifetime. They remained close through happy and hard times, never living far apart, and after becoming widowed, Marcheta moved into Luther Village, where she and Marilyn lived across the hall from each other. They spent their days enjoying meals and movies together, with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren visiting often. In one another, they had a constant companion and truest friend.

Marcheta’s life was rich with community and connection. She became involved in The St James Women’s group and the March of Dimes, joined a bowling league, and enjoyed a circle of friends they called “Lots of Luck,” sharing parties, get-togethers, and travel. She hosted many family gatherings with children and grandchildren, as well as evenings with friends and business associates that often lasted well into the night—always marked by her loyal friendship and the ease with which she made others feel welcome.

Family vacations were a hallmark of the Anderlik home, and the beloved Gallagher family often joined in—traveling to Wisconsin and South Dakota in grand caravans of 4–5 adults and 12 children, creating memories that endured for decades. Marcheta and Joe later built a summer home in La du Flambeau, Wisconsin, where family, friends, and neighbors continued to gather for years.

Marcheta loved to shop, dine out, and go to the movies, and she also enjoyed golfing. She especially loved Marshall Fields and, after most of the children had grown, worked in the China Department there. Later in life, she battled throat cancer successfully, meeting that season with determination and strength—an example to her family of what it means to endure with dignity.

Marcheta is survived by her seven children: Jean Preski (Ken), Mary Buishas (John), Barbara Griffin, Betsy Anderlik, Lisa Clark (Brent), Robert Anderlik (Sharon), and Debbi Davis; as well as 22 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren.

Marcheta will be missed with profound love and remembered with gratitude—for the devoted mother she was, the cherished friend she remained, the beloved center of a family that continues to carry her influence forward, and a sense of humor that lasted all of her 97 years.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to St James Parish or Ascension Hospice in Elk Grove Village.