Mary Cianci (Gluchman)

Loving Mother of Constance Kalas

Beloved daughter of the late Nicholas and Maria Gluchman

Grandmother of Philip Kalas, Michael Kalas, and Matthew (Karolina) Kalas

Fond mother-in-law to Philip Kalas Sr.

Dear sister of Michael Gluchman, Ann Bockay, Helen Hare, and Nick Gluchman.

Fond Aunt and Great Aunt of Many.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Cianci, a beloved mother, grandmother, and cherished member of our family and community. Mary was an incredible life force in this world and her presence in the lives of her loved ones will be deeply missed.

Mary was a member of the St. Michael's Choir for an incredible 75 years. Her beautiful voice filled the church every week, a testament to the devotion of her faith and her love of music. Mary was also a member of numerous choral groups, including the Milwaukee Road Choral Group, the Mello-Tones, the Starlites, and the Glenview Senior Chorus, performing in countless shows over the decades.

For 40 years, Mary worked at the Milwaukee Road, starting in an entry-level file clerk position, and working her way up to become one of the few women in senior accounts management. Her promotions were a reflection of her unwavering dedication, intelligence, and hard work, as well as her impressive mathematical abilities in an era before computers. These attributes were not only evident in her work but also in her personal life, where she continued to meticulously keep track of her daily routine, health, finances, and exercise up until her final weeks.

Mary was a natural athlete. She played for the Milwaukee Road's Girls' Soft Ball Team in the North Avenue Industrial League and played for the Milwaukee Road's Girls' Basketball Team in the Evening American League. She was also an avid swimmer and could regularly be found swimming laps in the pool at the YMCA until the age of 95. Mary was an active competitor even in her dreams and you could often hear her calling out plays while she was asleep.

Dancing was Mary's greatest passion. She frequented places like the historic Willowbrook Ballroom and loved to dance the line, swing, square, and waltz while also knowing how to perform the traditional Russian dances.

In addition to her other talents, Mary was a skilled baker renowned for her traditional Slovak treats that she prepared with love for church events and holidays. She was a gracious host for many family gatherings over the years and her warmth created a lively atmosphere where loved ones could share stories and have many laughs together. Like the rest of her brothers and sisters, she was well known for her sharp wit, and quick humor. Even in the last hours, she found a way to slip in some good jokes up until the last minute.

Above all, Mary's legacy is the enduring love and support she provided for her family, serving as the devoted matriarch and life support system for her daughter Constance, and grandchildren Philip, Michael, and Matthew. Mary's generosity and selflessness knew no bounds, always giving everything she had without question and being there for her loved ones whenever they needed her.

Mary Cianci passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones at the age of 98. She lived a full and bountiful life, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and dedication to family. Mary will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her spirit will live on in the countless lives she has touched with her warmth and kindness.

Visitation 9:00-10:00AM, Friday, April 21, 2023 at

St. Michael Orthodox Church - 7313 Waukegan Rd.  Niles, IL 60714.

Funeral Service will follow at 10:00AM.

Interment: Elmwood Park Cemetery - 2905 Thatcher Ave, River Grove, IL 60171

Visit Mary's personal web site at www.cappetta-dicanio.com