Karen Semancik, 76, of Huntley, Illinois, passed away peacefully at her home on August 29, 2025.
She was born on November 14, 1948, in Gary, Indiana to John and Marianne (Jakab) Rattay. She married the love of her life, John "J" Semancik, in Gary, Indiana in 1975. The couple recently celebrated 50 years together.
Over the course of her 30-year teaching career, Karen taught at several elementary schools and earned numerous prestigious awards including the Crystal Bell Award, in recognition of her teaching excellence. Her creativity and passion made her a standout educator, consistently finding imaginative ways to bring social studies to life—most memorably through her beloved 'Colonial Days' experience. Following retirement, Karen and J moved to Del Webb in 2008 and were parishioners of St. Mary Catholic Church.
Karen was a skilled quilter, fabric artist, and crafter. She frequently attended and participated in local craft fairs. She was an avid tennis player and made many friends on the courts. She and J enjoyed taking road trips across the USA (often stopping at quilt shops along the way). Her other hobbies included gardening, reading/discussing books with her book club, watching tennis, Notre Dame football & White Sox baseball, and cheering on her grandkids at all their sporting events. Her greatest joy was her family. She was an especially devoted grandmother known fondly as “Grammy” and “Gee” and was a source of love, laughter and words of wisdom. A skilled cook and baker, her family will miss her chocolate chip cookies, homemade bread, and famous grilled cheese. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will never be forgotten.
She is survived by her husband, J Semancik; her daughters, Julie Wade and Carolyn (Mike) Sasse; her brothers, Ken (Sherry) Rattay and Denny (the late Lynda) Rattay; her grandchildren, Connor, Myla, Layton, and Addy; her nephews, Denny Jr. (Julie), Matt (Sedny), and Kyle; her grand-niece, Ella, and her grand-nephews, Meier and Xzander.
Karen was preceded in death by her parents.
Visitation will be held on Monday, September 8, 2025, from 9am until time of Mass at 10am, at St. Mary Catholic Church - 10307 Dundee-Huntley Rd, Huntley, IL 60142. A private family burial will be held at St. John Cemetery in Hammond, IN. Memorial donations are suggested to Gilda’s Club Chicago – an affiliate of the cancer support community.
For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772, or online memories and condolences may be shared at www.defiorefuneral.com.
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J and Family, our deepest condolences to you at this difficult time. Karen and all of you will be in our prayers.
A beautiful tribute to a wonderful lady. Karen’s sweet smile and spirit will be missed. The family is in my prayers and I will cheer Conner on at Friday Night game!
Remembering our over 50 wonderful years as friends to Karen and J. Karen will always be in our hearts. Sending love and prayers to J and family.
J and family, such a beautifully written piece about Karen. She was such a special person and will be missed by so many. You and your family are in my prayers and never to be forgotten.
I am so sorry for your loss Carokyn. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers..
Jay and Family, You have been in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Karen’s friendship has been so very special to me. Our tennis playgroup and our fabulous lunches at Tom’s will be forever wonderful memories. Karen’s kindness and gentle nature will be missed by so many. Terron and Pat Cox
Karen left a stamp on our hearts. Her kindness, enthusiasm, and friendship will be remembered. I will miss my Fab 4 friend, I am glad to have had her in my life.
I am so sorry for your loss and am thinking of all of you during this time. Anything you need I am here.
my deepest sympathy to you Jay, )ulie and caroline
She was truly a special woman. Loving, caring and giving always. So thankful to have her in my life. Her tribute is wonderful. Blessings, love and sympathy to all of her family.
Karen and I played tennis in the same group and she was so patient and caring as opposed to my competitive nature. She never lost her temper and was so endearing to all of us who had the pleasure of playing tennis with her. She will be missed and I'm so sorry for your loss.
Very sorry for your loss. My condolences to you J, and your family.
What a beautiful tribute to an amazing woman, mother and grandmother. My sincere condolences to you Carolyn and your extended family - may Karen’s love see you through these challenging times.
My deepest condolences for the loss of your wonderful mother. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers