Susan M. Tracy

SUSAN M. TRACY

“Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life.” - Kahlil Gibran

Susan Maria Tomiska Tracy was born in Chicago, Illinois, on June 10, 1948, to Edward and Josephine Tomiska. She grew up in the Stickney area surrounded by her parents, sister Carol, cousin Judy, and countless aunts and uncles. Sue went to Illinois State University to pursue a teaching degree, which is where she met her soulmate, William Tracy. They were married on June 10, 1973, Sue’s 25th birthday. They would have celebrated their 49th anniversary in a few weeks. On August 22, 1977, they welcomed their first daughter Jennifer, and on November 6, 1979, their second daughter Beth joined the family. 

Sue’s true loves in life were her ​husband and her daughters, her extended family, and her commitment to elementary education. Sue taught for over three decades, starting her teaching career at Park School in Orland Park, before eventually joining District 128 in Palos Heights, where she taught at both Navajo and Chippewa Elementary Schools. While there, she taught alongside many dedicated colleagues who became lifelong friends. ​The students she taught over the years were like her children, and many stayed in touch with her when they became adults.

​Sue loved all dogs (especially “The Boys” - Trucker and Myles), Steve Martin movies, books, puzzles and games, any products that said “new” on them, authentic Bohemian food, music you could dance to, Palos Heights 4th of July fireworks, and the peaceful surroundings of Lake Katherine, where she and Bill made their home the past 18 years. Sue is survived by her beloved husband Bill; her children Jennifer and Beth (Aaron) James; her sister Carol (David) Ray, niece Shannon and nephew Matthew (Jackie); her cousin (who was like a sister) Judy (the late George) Kaminski; and countless friends and neighbors.

Sue was the most upbeat, positive person, always looking on the bright side of every situation, no matter the challenges that she faced in life. After being diagnosed with cancer, she made the best of it, making friends with fellow cancer patients, nurses, and doctors. She has always been, and will continue to be, an inspiration to us all. We will remember Sue with tears in our eyes, smiles on our faces, but most of all, love in our hearts. 

Sue's family will hold a ​small private ceremony to celebrate her life at a later date. Sue would have adopted all the dogs in the world if she could have, so in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to PAWS, any animal rescue facility of your choice, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 

Arrangements for Sue's family are entrusted to Debbie Zefran Jerry funeral director and friend at New Tradition Funeral Services www.newtraditonfunerals.com 630-230-8399

“When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight.”  - Kahlil Gibran

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