Gertrud H. Rademacher - 87

Crete, Illinois

Gertrud Rademacher, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away on February 10, 2024, in Crete, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion. Born on November 16, 1936, in Czechoslovakia, Gertrud was the daughter of Adolf Hanke and Ada Joske. She was a devoted wife to Frederic Rademacher for 66 years and a loving mother to her daughters, Diane Reeve, Debbie Moran, and Ginger Arnell. She was also a cherished sister to Herbert Hanke and the late Fritz Hanke, Anna Werthner and Gisela Hanke.

Gertrud's life was marked by her unwavering love for her family and her passion for knitting, crocheting, and playing cards with her friends. She found joy in traveling throughout Europe and the United States, creating lasting memories with her loved ones. Her warm smile and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew her.

Gertrud's love story with Frederic began when they met in Germany, where he was stationed. Their love blossomed, leading to a beautiful marriage that endured for over six decades. Together, they raised their daughters and created a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories.

In her youth, Gertrud worked at a camera manufacturing plant in Germany, where she developed a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for the value of hard work and dedication. She carried these values with her throughout her life, instilling them in her children and grandchildren.

Gertrud's love for her family was immeasurable, and she found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughters Diane, Debbie, and Ginger and her fiancé Rob Mahoney, her sons-in-law Tom Reeve and Greg Moran, her grandchildren Chris Moran and his wife Ashley, Lauren Alford and her husband Scott, Kyle Brinkmann and fiancé Jorge Belmonte, Blair Arnell, and Carter Arnell, as well as her great-grandchildren S.J. and Lucas Alford, and Ari Moran.

Gertrud's memory will forever be cherished by her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Adolf and Ada, her father-in-law Adolph Rademacher, and her mother-in-law Martha Rademacher. Her legacy of love, kindness, and strength will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Gertrud Rademacher's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and resilience. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for the love and light she brought into the lives of those around her. May she rest in peace, knowing that her legacy of love will continue to inspire and uplift those who were touched by her presence.  Memorial Visitation at Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, 530 W 14th Street (US Rt 30, 3 blks E of Western Ave), Chicago Heights on Saturday, February 24, 2024, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm until time of Memorial Service at 4:00pm. Future inurnment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood. Info 708-481-9230 and panozzobros.com.