In Loving Memory of Rita Ann Gascon
April 15, 1941 – July 5, 2026
Rita Ann Gascon, age 85, of Huntley, Illinois, died peacefully on July 5, 2026, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Rita was born April 15, 1941, in Chicago to Laura Motkowicz and Stanley Kujawa. Her mother, Laura, died after complications from childbirth, and Rita was lovingly adopted and raised by Veronica and Stanley Strozewski, Veronica being Stanley Kujawa’s sister.
Rita often summed up her life with the simple phrase, “It’s A Wonderful Life,” a reflection of the deep gratitude she felt for the blessings she was given. Raised in Elmwood Park, she attended St. William Catholic School, Trinity High School, and Wright Junior College. She met Harvey at The Hub Roller Rink, and on September 22, 1962, they were married at St. William Catholic Church in Chicago. Over their 63 years of marriage, they raised four children in Elk Grove Village and spent cherished summers at their Lake Wisconsin home.
Beloved by coworkers, Rita spent 23 years at K&M Printing Co. in Schaumburg before retiring. She enjoyed crafting candles, making homemade ornaments, and arranging flowers. In retirement she and Harvey made their home in Huntley, where they enjoyed traveling, motorcycling, and spending time with family and friends.
Rita is survived by her son Kenneth Gascon (Carolyn); son Brian Gascon; daughter Melissa Woods (Paul); and grandchildren Jonathon Gascon (Natalie), Michael Gascon, Allison Gascon, Sarah Case, Kevin Gascon, David Woods and Emily Woods. She was preceded in death by her husband Harvey Gascon; son Kevin Gascon; parents Veronica and Stanley Strozewski; and sisters Evelyn Kolozsy and Florence Arend.
Rita will be remembered as the warm heart of her home, always humming a tune and ready with a hug that made everyone feel welcome. Time spent with her family and friends was her greatest joy, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who loved her.
The family is deeply grateful for the love and support shown by her caregivers, hospice team, friends, and neighbors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
A joint memorial service for Rita and Harvey, who passed away on October 3, 2025, will be scheduled at a future date. Once arrangements are finalized, the service details will be added to this obituary. Family, friends, neighbors, and all who were touched by their lives are invited to join us in celebrating two beautiful lives and a lifelong love.
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