Marilyn Petras

Marilyn C. Petras, age 91, of Elk Grove Village passed away early morning on Saturday, August 5, 2023 in Rice Lake, WI surrounded by loving family. She was born in Evanston on February 12th to Herman and Bertha (Menke) Grimm. She graduated from Mundelein Cathedral High School in 1950. On July 16, 1955, Marilyn married the love of her life, George “Pete” Petras, in Chicago, IL. Marilyn and Pete raised their family of three children in Elk Grove Village, and vacationed yearly in their favorite town of Chetek, WI.

Marilyn loved spending time with her family, and delighted in watching her children and grandchildren grow up. She enjoyed spending time with friends and extended family, whether it be catching up or traveling (both in the states and abroad), singing with the Ambassadors Choir (Sheila Ray Adult Center), being Queen Mum of the Lovin’ Fun Red Hatters group for over 18 years, and teaching religious education (including 2nd Grade Faith Formation) for many years at Queen of the Rosary parish, her parish of over 62 years.

Left behind to cherish Marilyn’s memory are her three children, Sandi (Paul) Bruckner, Rick (Megg) Petras, Bill Petras; her grandchildren; as well as all those she considered family and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Marilyn was preceded in death by her loving husband, Pete; and many extended family members.

Marilyn’s life was a life well-lived – a life of kindness, love, fun, smiles, blessings, gratitude, and dedication to family and friends. Her family and friends were blessed to have known her and to have had her in their lives. Marilyn meant so much to her family and friends, and she will forever remain in their hearts, but she will be deeply missed.

In lieu of flowers, her family recommends memorials in Marilyn’s name to Mercy Home for Boys & Girls in Chicago, IL, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, TN, two of her favorite charities that she sponsored regularly over the years.

Marilyn’s wake/memorial service will be on August 31, 2023 from 4 to 8 p.m. at The Oaks Funeral Home, Itasca, IL. Marilyn’s funeral mass will be on September 1st at 9:45 a.m. at Queen of the Rosary Parish (now known as Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament) in Elk Grove Village, IL.

Arrangements by The Oaks Funeral Home, Itasca, IL. For more information call 630-250-8588, or for those wishing to share a memory on-line for Marilyn’s family, please visit www.oaksfh.com.