Simone Vucko

Simone Vucko, age 87, of Downers Grove, IL, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on October 27, 1937, in Metz, France, Simone was the beloved daughter of the late Juro and Catherine (née Sarjas) Lorkovic. As a young woman, she bravely made the journey to the United States, where she later married the love of her life, Joseph Vucko, on September 8, 1962.

While raising their family, Simone not only learned English but proudly became a U.S. citizen. She paid it forward by helping many others in the Slovenian community navigate the same path to citizenship. Deeply involved in her community, Simone gave her time and energy to schools, scouts, church groups, and Slovenian organizations. She was especially known for her cheerful role as “the raffle lady,” a title she held with joy and enthusiasm.

After her children were grown, Simone continued to work well into her 70s. Though she faced many years managing diabetes and later, the challenges of dementia, she remained a light to those around her. The past five years of her life were spent at Chateau Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, where she was deeply cherished by the staff for her kind and joyful spirit.

The Vucko family extends their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate teams at Chateau Nursing and Rehabilitation Center and St. Croix Hospice for their dedicated care and support.

Simone is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph, and their children: Kathleen (Anton) Glavac, Joseph, Kristeen (Joseph) Wilber, and Stephanie. She was a proud grandmother and great-grandmother, always treasuring time spent with her growing family. She is preceded in death by her parents, her brother, Jean Lorkovic, and her grandson, Kevin Glavac.

Simone’s life was marked by resilience, generosity, and deep love for her family and heritage. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

Visitation: will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.at Markiewicz Funeral Home 108 Illinois St. Lemont, IL. 60439

Funeral: Friday, April 25, at the Slovenian Catholic Mission 14246 Main St., Lemont, IL 60439. Simone will lie in state beginning at 9:00 a.m. until Mass at 10:00 a.m. burial to follow.

Burial: will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery Belmont & Cumberland Avenues River Grove, IL 60171

In lieu of Flowers: Memorials may be made to St Mary's Slovenian Catholic Mission or Slovenian Cultural Center, www.Slovenian-Center.org

Arrangements entrusted to Debbie Zefran Jerry funeral director and friend.          New Tradition Funeral Services ph:630-230-8599 cell:708-212-0413

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