Dennis E. Gackowski

A Memorial Visitation for Dennis E. Gackowski, 69, of Hawthorn Woods, will be held Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 3:00 until 8:00 p.m. at the Ahlgrim Family Funeral Home, 415 S. Buesching Rd., Lake Zurich.  A Memorial Mass will be held Friday, November 10, 2017, 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 33 S. Buesching Road, Lake Zurich.  The Interment will be private.

Dennis was born September 6, 1948 in Chicago and passed away October 30, 2017 at home with his family.

He was the beloved husband of Barbara Gackowski (nee DePaepe); loving father of Michael, Kimberly (Bill), Daniel, and Bradley; loving grandfather of Chasey and Brooklyn; dear son of the late Edward and Helen Gackowski; and fond brother of Angelita, Donna (Mark) and Michael; and fond uncle, brother-in-law and cousin to many.

Dennis served in the United States Marine Corps and was a Vietnam veteran.  He earned his bachelor’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University.  Dennis was dedicated to his work and enjoyed a 40-year career at Kenall Manufacturing as a respected and beloved manager. He started with Kenall as a Purchasing Agent, moved into management, then became Vice President of Manufacturing.  Dennis was a devoted father who coached his sons’ baseball teams, camped with his Indian Princess daughter, and patiently helped with math homework.  He loved driving around the country on family road trips and was always eager for the next karaoke night with his children.  Dennis was a master soup maker and avid Chicago Cubs and Bears fan.  He also enjoyed birthday pies, fishing in his pond, and watching Bozo the Clown with his granddaughters.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Dennis’ name can be sent to the Marine Corps League Foundation, http://www.mclfoundation.org/.  Checks can be mailed to 3619 Jefferson Davis Hwy, Suite 115, Stafford, VA 22554.  You may add a note requesting that a memorial certificate is sent to Dennis’ family.