Joanne Mary Gabert, nee Klupar, age 85, passed away peacefully surrounded by family; native of Chicago, 70 year resident of Elmhurst, currently of Lombard; Graduate of Immaculate Conception Grade School and High School, Elmhurst; Graduate Rosary College, ICGS school secretary for 30 years; beloved wife of Martin for 60 years; loving mother of Jean (Kenneth) Block, Julie (Christian) Bisson, Susan (Robert) Simkovic, David (Sherry) Gabert, and Sharon (Thomas) Stewart; cherished grandmother of 15, including the late Luc Bisson; dear sister of the late James Klupar; devoted daughter of the late Marian and the late George Klupar.
Before getting married and starting a family, Joanne began her career as a 3rd grade teacher at Jackson Elementary School in Elmhurst. During her tenure at ICGS, she somehow managed to raise five children and help Martin renovate their 1901 Victorian style home, all with boundless energy and patience. When Joanne was not at home, you could often find her briskly walking and smiling throughout Elmhurst. It was that smile that endeared her to everyone she met.
After retiring from ICGS, she gave of herself by volunteering at Elmhurst Memorial Hospital. In 2016, after Joanne and Martin decided to make Beacon Hill their new home, Joanne suffered a stroke. The stroke slowed her down, but could not contain her naturally uplifting spirit. Despite facing challenges and struggles with her own health, she continued to spread joy and kindness.
Friends and family will meet Friday, April 1, 2022 for a Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst. Following Mass, the family invites you to gather and share memories anytime until 2:00 p.m. at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 S York Rd, Elmhurst. Interment Private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in honor of Luc Bisson (grandson) to First Star Tonight, 75 Main Street, PMB 200, Plymouth, NH 03264. First Star Tonight was instrumental in financially supporting Luc’s family during his battle with brain cancer this past year. For funeral information, please call 630-832-0018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome.com
Mary Ellen Zerante
Sending the family our sympathy while fondly remembering her kindness at ICGS throughout the years! The zerante family
The Stavropoulos Family
Mrs. Gabert was the friendly face whenever any of us had to walk into the office! She was the sweetest lady! Used to see her walking around town too.
Our family was very sad to hear about her passing. A lovely, patient woman who has a special place in Heaven! Love, Jim, Betsy, Ashley, James & Mary
Carol Fox
Our deepest condolences to the family of Joanne .
She was a joy to be around and she always spread kindness and greeted you with that amazing smile . Everyone loved Mrs. Gabert
Laurie Marcucci
I am so sorry to hear the sad news about Mrs. Gabert. She was a wonderful woman. She always had a smile on her face when my kids would arrive at IC for school…even when they were late. I am sure her guardian angel has brought her right up to heaven. Live on with all the wonderful memories you have made with her… it will.bring you peace.
May she rest in peace.
Laurie Marcucci
Nancy Manion
I have so often thought of sweet Mrs. Gabert. I had 5 children go through IC grade school. I loved you mother so much. She was an angel sent to IC. God bless your sweet mother and I will pray the rosary for her till the day that I meet her. Nancy Manion
Grace Benner
Joanne was my admin. assist. for 3 yrs at ICGS. And she was so much more than that. I always knew I could count on Joanne for many things throughout my day. She was a blessing to the ICGS community. And to me. May she RIP. God speed, Joanne! ❤️
Mary Lou Vainisi Jacobson
Our sincerest condolences to Mrs. Gabert’s family. Coincidentally yesterday my daughter and I were reminiscing about the days when she would be sick or upset at school and go to see Mrs.Gabert who always welcomed her and made her feel better. Not to mention that us moms (and dads) knew if we wanted to get something done, we just asked Mrs. Gabert. She was a wonderful lady who touched many people’s lives, always with a smile and enthusiasm. Rest In Peace, Mrs. Gabert. The Jacobson Family
Kelly Rafferty
I was a student at ICGS and have only fond memories of this lovely human. How lucky we all were to have had her touch our lives. My thoughts are with her family at this time. Sending my love.
Mary Ellen Zerante
Sending our sympathy to the family. We have such fond memories of her kindness throughout the years at ICGS! The zerante family
Laura Atchison
Joanne was the energetic heart and soul of ICGS during our childrens’ time there. What a good life!
Josephine Bastianoni
The kind and wonderful lady whose boundless energy and smile helped make our days teaching at I C Grade School such a joy! We all loved you, Joanne, and our lives are all better because we knew you. Blessings to all the Gabert family!
The McEnroe Family
Our sincere condolences for your loss. We are truly blessed to have known Joanne Gabert. We met Joanne when our children attended ICGS. She was always so kind and helpful. Blessings to all of you.
Mary Jablonski
Thank you for sharing Mrs. Gabert with so many grateful ICGS families. She lovingly cared for all of our children in so many ways. She was the eyes, ears and heart of ICGS and had the fastest little feet in town! She and Mrs. K. were a great team. We were so lucky to have them at the helm! Rest easy, Mrs. Gabert.
John and Carol Arnold
Mrs. Gabert was a defining presence at ICGS. She comforted so many students and was appreciated for her reassuring presence. She touched our hearts for so many years. We think of her fondly.
Colleen Biggio
I am so sorry for the loss of Joanne. She was a very special person. Thank you to your wonderful family(many of the kids I remember teaching) for sharing her with us. I am hoping that your fond memories will give you comfort.
(Former ICGS teacher/parent)
Bill Ainsworth & Family
Mrs. Gabert, thank you for being an Angel during our time at IC Grade School. May you celebrate Easter each and every day w/ our Lord – in the green, green grass of home! Peace & Love, The Ainsworth Family
The Olalde Family
So sorry for the loss of this loving and caring lady. As a former ICGS family and former school nurse, Joanne touched our lives in so many ways over the years. She will be missed. May you find comfort in your memories.
Sheila Chantos
Joanne was my “go to person” in the years I taught at ICGS. I enjoyed her smile and her positive attitude everyday. She was a giver. She holds a special place in my heart.