Phyllis A. Gronek (née Drackner), 95, died on March 3, 2026, in North Riverside. Born on Aug. 11, 1930, in Chicago, she lived a full life characterized by her vibrant passions, devotion to family, and an enduring sense of community.
She had a deep love for the beach, swimming, cooking and baking and was known among her family for her meringue kisses and kolacky. She found joy in old movies, reading and music. She was also an active and longtime member of the Mater Christi Women’s Guild, the North Riverside Sportsman’s Club, and Sokol Tabor, where she fostered friendships and a sense of belonging. Her life was a tapestry woven with love, creativity, and community spirit. She will be profoundly missed.
Phyllis was the wife of the late Fred Gronek for 56 years; the mother of Linda (Randy) Blaser and the late Gayle (late Kenneth) Neuzil; grandmother of Natalie (Danny Zeckhauser) Blaser, Steven (Jasimine) Blaser, and Michael (Lauren Drysdale) Blaser; great-grandmother of Luke, Ori, Savannah, Araceli and Isaiah; sister of Phyllis, Joan (late James) Curran; and aunt of many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her brother, Al (late Rita) Fail.
Visitation was held on March 5 at Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, 2447 S. Desplaines Avenue. Funeral Mass was celebrated on March 6 at Mater Christi Church, North Riverside. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery.
Online condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at www.KuratkoNosek.com.