Obituary of Gary E. Mahalik

Gary E. Mahalik

Age 58, of Minooka, Illinois, passed suddenly Sunday evening October 20, 2024.  He was born March 7, 1966, in Joliet, Illinois, to Lawrence E. and the late Veronica M. (Kurator) Mahalik.  Gary was raised in Joliet and graduated with the class of 1984 from Providence Catholic High School.  His passion for art led him to Colorado to further his education at the Rocky Mountain School of Art.

He is survived by his father, Lawrence E. Mahalik and three sisters, Justine (Rick) Fishbeck, Jennifer (Scott) Coyne and Lauren (Alex Romero) Mahalik.  Gary will also be remembered fondly by his nephew and nieces, Alex Fishbeck, Emily Fishbeck (Trevor Husch), Madison Coyne (David Liljehorn), Olivia Coyne and Delaney Coyne; as well as his lifelong friend, Gary Hrusosky. Many aunts, uncles and cousins also survive.

Gary is preceded in death by his mother Veronica, who just recently passed in July; his grandparents, Mary and Roman Kurator; Sophia and Louis Mahalik.

Gary, a member of Local #174 was a skilled carpenter and a talented artist.  His hobbies included music, playing the harmonica, reading, fishing, playing video games and effortlessly creating beautiful paintings and drawings.

At Gary’s request, cremation rites have been accorded.

All friends and relatives are invited to gather in the Nativity Room of St. Mary Nativity Church, 706 N. Broadway Street, Joliet on Saturday, October 26, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until Gary's Mass of Christian Burial is celebrated at 10:00 a.m. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name can be made to the donor’s favorite charity.

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence.