It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our beloved Darlene Lipnicki. Darlene was born on June 6, 1938 in Fort Sheridan, IL to Leonard and Adelaide Reedy. She passed away on November 10, 2024 at the age of 86. She was surrounded by family, and her departure leaves an unfillable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She lived a life full of love, wisdom, and grace, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. She was a woman of strong faith, boundless kindness, and an unwavering commitment to her family.
Darlene graduated from St. Mary’s High School and was a devoted parishioner of Our Lady of Humility Church for over 50 years. She was a dedicated stay-at-home mom who lovingly raised three daughters and worked as a lunch lady in their schools. Darlene also worked in the microfiche department at Lake Forest Bank and held a part-time job at the Golden Bear restaurant in Waukegan while concurrently working at an answering service. Darlene’s career journey continued at St.Therese Hospital in Waukegan, where she held multiple positions before transferring to Vista Hospital in Waukegan, where she also served in various roles. She eventually retired from Vista Hospital.
Darlene had many passions in life, including traveling with her sister, playing BINGO, and watching the horse races at Arlington International Racecourse. She had a special love for butterflies, kittens, and the color purple. Darlene was a devout churchgoer and enjoyed spending time with her friends at Gurnee Meadows and participating in water aerobics at Illinois Beach State Resort and the Waukegan Field House. She loved watching “The Price is Right” and singing “Oh Holy Night” and other church hymns. Darlene was also an ardent supporter of the Chicago Cubs, fondly known as the Cubbies. She cherished her weekly visits to her sister and daughter’s houses.
Darlene was a proud mother to Terri Knuth and Lisa Lipnicki, sister to Pat (Eric) Oertle, and grandmother to Jamie Knuth, Tracy (Rob) Black, and Kyle Robinson. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Adelaide and Leonard Reedy, and her daughter Debi Wallin.
Darlene’s warmth, love, and dedication to her family and community will be deeply missed. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her. Her legacy of love and warmth will live on in her sister, children, grandchildren, and all those whose lives she touched.
A visitation will be held on November 15, 2024 from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Proko Funeral Home in Kenosha, WI. Family and friends are invited to join us in remembering and celebrating her life.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the ASPCA in her memory.
A Catholic Mass at Our Lady of Humility Church in Beach Park, IL will be held at a later date and time.
Rest in peace, Darlene. You will be deeply missed, but your love will continue to guide us.
