Joanne Gabert Obituary

Joanne Mary Gabert, nee Klupar, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family; native of Chicago, 70 year resident of Elmhurst, currently of Lombard; Graduate of Immaculate Conception Grade School and High School, Elmhurst; Graduate Rosary College, ICGS school secretary for 30 years; beloved wife of Martin for 60 years; loving mother of Jean (Kenneth) Block, Julie (Christian) Bisson, Susan (Robert) Simkovic, David (Sherry) Gabert, and Sharon (Thomas) Stewart; cherished grandmother of 15, including the late Luc Bisson; dear sister of the late James Klupar; devoted daughter of the late Marian and the late George Klupar.

Before getting married and starting a family, Joanne began her career as a 3rd grade teacher at Jackson Elementary School in Elmhurst. During her tenure at ICGS, she somehow managed to raise five children and help Martin renovate their 1901 Victorian style home, all with boundless energy and patience. When Joanne was not at home, you could often find her briskly walking and smiling throughout Elmhurst. It was that smile that endeared her to everyone she met.

After retiring from ICGS, she gave of herself by volunteering at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital. In 2016, after Joanne and Martin decided to make Beacon Hill their new home, Joanne suffered a stroke. The stroke slowed her down, but could not contain her naturally uplifting spirit. Despite facing challenges and struggles with her own health, she continued to spread joy and kindness.

Friends and family will meet Friday, April 1, 2022 for a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst. Following Mass, the family invites you to gather and share memories anytime until 2:00 p.m. at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 S York Rd, Elmhurst. Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Luc Bisson (grandson) to First Star Tonight, 75 Main Street, PMB 200, Plymouth, NH 03264. First Star Tonight was instrumental in financially supporting Luc's family during his battle with brain cancer this past year. For funeral information, please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com