Gary Joseph Cervenka

Age 84 of Braidwood, Illinois, died peacefully on Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at his home.

Born February 10, 1940 in Chicago, Illinois, Gary was a son of Francis Cervenka, Jr. and Emily Brabeck. He was raised and educated in Chicago, and worked for Premier Refractories, formerly known as CE Refractories. Gary began his career there in 1966 holding several different positions over the years, including Foreman and Traffic Manager, until he formally retired.

He was an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and took great pleasure in horse racing at the Arlington Race Track and trying his luck at the casinos or with scratch off Lotto tickets. Gary had an active mind, never missing his morning crossword puzzles and always making time to watch Jeopardy. He loved to cook for his family and friends and was well known for his spaghetti and potato salad. Family is what made him most happy though, especially annual family vacations or going to Lake Lawn for birthday gatherings with his brother’s family. Gary was a proud grandpa and great grandpa, cherishing all moments spent with his grandchildren, and worked hard to raise his children well and make a loving home.

Survivors include his wife, Juanita Cervenka of Braidwood, whom he married March 21, 1975; four children: Gary Cervenka (Sandy Rae) of the United Kingdom, Connie Terrel (Don Pogliano) of Coal City, Illinois, Doreen M. Cervenka of Chicago, Illinois, and Donald Cervenka of Chicago, Illinois; four grandchildren: Robert “Bobby” Terrel, Joseph (Lisha) Terrel, and Kristina (Josh) Lardi, all of Coal City, and Victoria E.M. Peters (fiancé: Steven Stacey) of the United Kingdom; eight great grandchildren: Evie, Isaac, and Annie Lardi, Paisley and Hunter Terrel, Jack and Charlotte Terrel, and Freddie Stacey; one brother and one sister: Frank (Lois) Cervenka of Darien, Illinois, and Trudy Harding of White City, Illinois; two nieces: Francine and Julianne Cervenka; and several cousins.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; his special grandfather, Joseph Brabeck; and two sons: Robert and Brian Cervenka.

The family will receive friends at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Roman Catholic Church, 215 South Kankakee Street, in Coal City on Monday, December 30, 2024 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services at 11:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Reverend Joshua Miller and assisted by Deacon William Dunn.

Cremation rites will be accorded following the services and interment will be private.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Gary’s memory to the charity of the donor’s choosing.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Gary’s memorial page via social media.

Funeral services and cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves and Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Coal City (815) 634-2125.