Barbara Ann Kurecki

Age 85 of Morris, Illinois and formerly of Seneca, Illinois and Burbank, Illinois died Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Hinsdale Hospital in Hinsdale, Illinois.

Born January 17, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, Barbara Ann was a daughter of Bruno and Frances (Manchik) Shimkus. She was raised and educated in Chicago and on June 16, 1956, Barbara married Ronald Kurecki at St. Brendan Parish in Chicago and he preceded her in death on September 26, 1991. 

Following her relocation to Morris in 1995, Barbara quickly ingrained herself within the community's fabric. She dedicated her time and efforts to First Christian Church, the Morris VFW Auxiliary, the Morris Hospital Auxiliary, and the Morris Moose Lodge #967. Her generous spirit and unwavering commitment reflected her deep-rooted values.

Barbara possessed a keen intellect and enjoyed challenging puzzles that she effortlessly conquered. She also took pleasure in playing Bingo and trying her luck playing slots, however it was in her kitchen where she truly expressed herself. Baking delightful treats was both an art form and a passion for Barbara Ann. It brought immense joy to her heart to share these delectable creations with friends and loved ones, especially with her daughters and grandson making holiday cookies and for their family cook offs. 

Survivors include her children: Karen McGovern of Seneca, Kristine (William) Grieger of Lockport, and Kimberly (Craig) Leary of Morris; five grandchildren: James Railsback Grieger (Amanda Schoenecker), Shannon Bordeaux, Jared Kurecki, Alyssa Kurecki, and Bradley Kurecki; five great grandchildren: Michelle,Kendall, Madison, Maya, and Lexi; two sisters: Geraldine Wilkison and Sandra (Spencer) Waagen, both of Manteno; sister-in-law, Mary Kurecki of Murphysboro, Illinois, and numerous nieces and nephews, including special niece: Carrie (Jerry) Witherow.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and husband; son, Ronald Kurecki, one grandson, Michael McGovern, son-in-law, Jamie Railsback,  and siblings: Larry Reese, Robert Reese, Margaret Reese, Helen Reese, Dorothy Reese, Eugene Shimkus and Ronald Shimkus, Dolores Mikalauskas, and Lorayne Hillig. 

Per her wishes, cremation rites are being accorded, and the family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington on Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 12:00 p.m. until the time of memorial service at 4:00 p.m.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Barbara's memorial page via social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington (815) 476-2181.