Pauline J. Gruca

“Puddy”

Age 96 of Wilmington, Illinois died peacefully on Friday morning, August 30, 2024 in assisted living in Kankakee, Illinois.

Born on March 29, 1928, in Duluth, Minnesota, she was a daughter of Paul P. and Maude E. Roberts. Growing up in Joliet, Pauline graduated from Saint Francis Academy. On February 12, 1949, she married Edward Thomas Gruca and together they created a loving home in Wilmington, where they raised their children.

Pauline's professional journey began at Uniroyal and the Joliet Army Ammunition Plant, eventually later leading her to Johnson & Johnson Personal Products, where she dedicated 12 years of service before retiring. A member of St. Rose Catholic Church in Wilmington, she actively participated in the CCW and contributed her time and energy to the Wilmington VFW Auxiliary, Joliet Elks, and the Wilmington Moose Lodge. Additionally, she enjoyed involvement in various country line dancing clubs, including the Kingsway Kickers, Heartland Dancers, Coyote Moon, and Country Club.

Throughout her life, Pauline exemplified vitality and joy; she embraced roller skating in her early years and later shared her love for square dancing and country line dancing, in which she instructed. Her creative spirit led her to crochet and explore various crafts, and she took great pride in her cooking. A passionate sports fan, she delighted in cheering for the Chicago Bears and Blackhawks. In her later years, she and Edward cherished memorable adventures traveling and snowbirding in the Valley of Texas.

Pauline will be remembered not only for her dedication as a wife and mother but also for her exceptional work ethic and the joy she took in watching her family thrive. Her legacy of love and devotion will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Survivors include her children: Tom Gruca, Ron (Melinda) Gruca, and triplets: Michelle Rogers, Robin (Rich) Blaha and Melanie Haugen; (12) grandchildren; (11) great grandchildren and one sister-in-law, Mary Klimowski, as well as numerous cousins.

Pauline was preceded in death by her parents; husband Edward (2005) and three sisters.

The family will receive friends for a visitation at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road in Wilmington on September 12, 2024 between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. in St. Rose Catholic Church, 604 S. Kankakee Street in Wilmington. Rev. Sebastian Gargol will preside.

Burial will be in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery where Pauline will be laid to rest with Edward.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Pauline’s memory to Kuzma Care Cottage, 635 S. Main Street, Wilmington, IL 60481.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Pauline’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington. (815-476-2181)