Mary Laukaitis, 74, of Pana passed away Monday, October 18, 2021 in St. John’s Hospital, Springfield. She was born April 5, 1947 in Pana to the late Alex & Marie (Ladow) Rochkes. Mary married Johnnie Laukaitis on November 11, 1967 in St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Pana and he survives.
Mary was a graduate of Pana High School, Class of 1965 and was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Pana. She was a homemaker until her children were grown and then she worked as a dental assistant. Mary was always put together, looking her best, and she never knew a stranger. In her free time, she enjoyed cooking & planting flowers. She was also very crafty and enjoyed sewing & quilting. Mary loved to shop, always looking for a bargain. She never missed a road trip to the casino or the chance to go out to eat. Mary’s greatest joy was raising her children and spending time with her grandchildren.
In addition to her husband, Mary is survived by her children: Brian (Christine) Laukaitis, Springfield, IL; Lisa Dagen, Pana, IL and Jennifer (Curtis) Kessler, Virden, IL; grandchildren: Alexanne Dagen, Evan Kessler & Ryan Kessler and her dog, Penny. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Francis “Butch” Rochkes.
Memorial mass for Mary will be held on Monday, October 25, 2021 in St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Pana at 10:00 a.m. with Rev. Rodney A. Schwartz officiating. Inurnment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Pana, IL.
Memorials in Mary’s honor may be made to Pana Community Hospital Foundation or Sacred Heart School and will be accepted by McCracken-Dean Funeral Home who is assisting the family.