Karen Prack

Karen Lynn Prack, age 72, of Homewood (Illinois), passed away on May 30, 2022.  Beloved and devoted wife of Raymond Prack; they were married 31 years.  Preceded in death by her loving parents, Loretta and Anthony Halcarz; and Gerald "Jack" Bennett. Loving sister of Laurie (late Albert) Gonzalez; Jacqueline Bennett; Michael (Donna) Halcarz; Andrea (Mark) Harbin; Lisa (Stephan) Kaganzev; and brother-in-law Charles (Kimberley) Prack. Fond Aunt of Chris (Tori) Halcarz; Ryan (Holli) Halcarz; Kelsea (Robert Grant) Halcarz; Beau Harbin; Calla Harbin; Nathaniel Prack; and Charlotte Prack. Great Aunt of Delilah Halcarz; Ben Halcarz; Evelynn Halcarz; and Little One Halcarz (due September 2022). Karen truly loved all of her nieces and nephews. She was their biggest supporter in everything they did.  She always showed an interest in their lives; carrying on conversations with all of them, especially about their life plans, college choices and what they wanted to do for a living.  She was intrigued to know when they were getting married and their plans to start a family.  She will be greatly missed at every family function because she attended all of them.  Karen proudly retired from the University of Chicago, after 50 years of service.  UChicago was her first and only employer since graduating from Hammond Tech High School in 1967.  Karen grew up in North Hammond (Indiana), attending Saint Casimir School, Class of 1963.

Karen was outspoken and always expressed her opinion. According to Ray, one of her favorite sayings was,"Do not interrupt me", he remembers with a chuckle.  Karen was a supporter and advocate for several causes that touched her life, such as the Down Syndrome Association. She and Ray enjoyed antiquing, going out to eat together and cheering for their favorite team, the Chicago Cubs.  Karen enjoyed murder mysteries and watching "her shows" on TV.  She also loved traditional Polish meals and celebrations.

Karen often shared emojis, GIFs, memorable quotes and stories that were intended to uplift and encourage as many people as she could. One example of how Karen felt about other people comes from a prayer she shared on more than one occasion:

"This morning when I wakened

And saw the sun above,

I softly said,"Good morning Lord,

Bless everyone I love."

And right away I thought of you

And said a loving prayer,

That He would bless you specially,

And keep you free from care.

I thought of all the happiness

A day could hold in store,

I wished it all for you because

No one deserves it more.

Karen will be remembered for her lovable and caring nature.  She will be missed dearly by her family and friends.

Resting at the Tews-Ryan Funeral Home 18230 Dixie Highway, Homewood IL. Friday, June 3 ^rd from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.  Prayers Saturday 10:00 a.m. to  St. Joseph Church, 17951 Dixie Highway, Homewood.  Mass 10:30 a.m.

Donations to the Down Syndrome Association NWI are appreciated.