Donald “Duck” Gacek
Donald “Duck” Gacek, 78, longtime Westmont resident, at rest August 30, 2023. Born June 27, 1945 in Chicago to Anton and Olga Gacek. Beloved husband of Rita (nee Smola); loving father of Michael and Tracy Gacek, Dawn (Mark) Moore, Kimberly Coker and the late Matthew; dearest grandfather of 10, great grandfather of 3; dear brother of William (Jean) Gacek and Janice (Charles) Voss; fond uncle of several nieces and one nephew. Duck was employed for 32 years with National Elevator Local #2. He was a longtime parishioner and usher at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Duck was a fantastic dancer and won so many contests in college that he was not allowed to enter any more. He had a love of sports and particularly enjoyed hosting ” illegal” football pools in his mancave. In addition to being very devoted to his family, especially his wife Rita, he enjoyed Andy Griffith reruns, crossword puzzles and going out to breakfast with family and friends. Visitation Monday September 4, 2023 from 3-7 P.M. at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home & Cremation Services 4920 Main St., Downers Grove. Funeral Tuesday 9 A. M. from the funeral home to Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Westmont for a 9:30 A.M. Funeral Mass. Interment Clarendon Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Holy Trinity Parish Campaign at parishcenter@holytrinitywestmont.org. Funeral Info 630-852-8000 or westsuburbanfh.com
Great times that we shared! Remembering times in Chicago and all the other cousins!
Playing red rover and other games in the neighborhood.
Rest easy cousin!
I remember when I was a boy, don took me to the amphitheater to
See a wrestling match.
I am deeply sorry to hear about Don’s passing. He was a bright light in your life, and he will forever shine in your memories. From my family to yours, our heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to you in this time of sorrow.
Jim and Lan
It just dawned on me that you might enjoy some childhood memories that I have of Don, although it is not easy to remember 70 years ago. Being my older cousin (by one year), he was often my teacher. One summer as young boys we went to camp together along with Bill, Ed and Butch. I remember it as camp hell as Don forgot to tell me to watch my toes when playing Mumbley Peg with a pocketknife. Don also taught me to pitch pennies on the sidewalk in front of his house. He was a good sport and let me pitch nickels while he pitched pennies. Thanks for being such a wise cousin, Don.
Rita and family
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Don. I had the pleasure of knowing him and working with him at Mid States for many years. We had a lot of fun together
And he was a great man. You are all in our prayers.
Bernadene and Herb Flentye