Mary Helen Lichtenberger

She is survived by her loving husband, John Lichtenberger; her children, William Lichtenberger (Amanda), and Ellen Giacobbe (Louie); and her four grandchildren Lucas and Liam Lichtenberger, and Matilda and Ozzy Giacobbe; her sister Stacy Bookless (Bill); her brother Harry Dukas, and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents: William and Helen Dukas; and her sister-in- law Danielle Dukas.

Mary was a devoted wife, mother, yiayia, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Time spent with family and friends was her greatest joy. She especially cherished being a mom and a yiayia, roles she held close to her heart. Her greatest pride and joy was her family.

Mary was born in Chicago, Illinois and graduated from Buffalo Grove High School. She received her bachelor’s degree in education at Western Illinois University, and a master's degree in education from Olivet Nazarene University. For 23 years, Mary made a lasting impact as an educator in Crystal Lake District 47. This was a role in which she touched many lives. Mary’s warmth, humor, and sharp wit is what people will remember the most. She was a lover of music, and she had an easy way of making others laugh and feel seen and heard. Her presence brought comfort and light.

Despite living with Multiple System Atrophy, Mary continued to face life with strength, humor, and grace. She remained positive and optimistic throughout her 6 year MSA journey and was an inspiration to so many.

Above all, Mary was deeply loved, and she loved deeply in return. Her legacy lives on through her family, the many lives she touched, and the memories shared by those fortunate enough to have known her.

A Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22nd, at Querhammer & Flagg Funeral Home in Crystal Lake, Illinois from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 23rd, at St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church in Elgin, Illinois at 10:00 am. The Burial will follow at Windridge Memorial Park in Cary, Illinois.