Kathleen Garbarz

Kathleen Garbarz, age 81, died Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at her home in Pecatonica surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 10, 1945, in Oak Park, IL the daughter to Sam and Rose (Ortenzi) Scanio. She graduated from Proviso West High School in Hillside, IL. She married Thomas J. Garbarz on Nov. 7, 1964, in Melrose Park, IL. They were married for 61 years. She loved spending time with her family and loved her grandchildren deeply. Kathleen was a member of St. Charles Borromeo in Elmhusrt, Il. and enjoyed her scripture group led by Father Ted and recently attended the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pecatonica. She loved going for runs with her sister Rose, walks with her friend Sue, sitting on the porch talking with Jayne, playing Scrabble with her cousin Karen, but most of all drinking coffee and dancing to Neil Diamond. Kathleen was also a volunteer in the Elmhurst Public schools where she enjoyed working with children. She was an avid supporter of the PTA. Kathleen was predeceased by her parents, her sister and brother-in-law Rose (Bob) Douglas, son Thomas John Garbarz, Jr., and her dog Coco. She is survived by her loving husband Thomas J. Garbarz, Sr. of Pecatonica, IL; her son David Garbarz of LaGrange, IL; her daughter Donna Lynn (Roland) Harvey of Pecatonica, IL; daughter in law Jenette; her 2 sisters Carol Matusilk of Naperville, IL and Joan Vacchiano of Elmhurst, IL; grandchildren Cathleen and Madeline Harvey; Michael (Ashley) Garbarz; Zackary Garbarz; Michelle,, Andrew, Maria, and Salvatore, and a great grandchild on the way, and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held July 17th, 2026 from 10am-11:00 with Mass following at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pecatonica, IL with Rev. Dennis M. Morrissy officiating. There will be a gravesite ceremony with a luncheon to follow for all who attend. A memorial fund is established in Kathleen’s name for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.