Kathleen Beverly Greco (nee Humphrey), 93, died on Dec. 11, 2019 due to complications from Sjogren’s disease. She was probably the oldest person living with this autoimmune and orphan disease. Born in Chicago on June 18, 1926, she attended Brown School and was valedictorian of the 1943 class of McKinley High School on Chicago’s West Side. She received her B.A. in Biology from the University of Illinois Champaign, worked as a biochemist for Western Electric, ran the hematology lab of Illinois Masonic Hospital, and worked in the lab at Oak Park Hospital.
She also taught at Stetler’s Preschool in Oak Park, English and Etymology for Triton College, and fitness classes and the badminton program at the Oak Park YMCA. Her greatest contribution began in 1986, working as a standardized patient for local medical schools, molding future physicians.
She married Dr. James F. Greco in 1949 and lived in Oak Park for many years along with her children Dr. James L. Greco (Zoe) and Nancy, whom she considered her best friend. She lived in Forest Park at the Boardwalk Condominium and served on the board of managers for many years.
Kathleen Greco is survived by her children, Jim and Nancy; her granddaughter, Suzanne Pollock; her nieces, Sharon Yoder and Elisa Hofmann; and her many other nieces and nephews, friends, and colleagues.
Visitation was held on Dec. 16 at Peterson-Bassi Chapel. A Mass of Remembrance was celebrated at Ascension Catholic Church in Oak Park on Dec. 17, with members of the Michael Teolis Singers performing, followed by interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.
The family appreciates donations in her memory to the Animal Care League of Oak Park, WFMT Classical Radio, or the Michael Teolis Singers. Arrangements were handled by Peter B. Kennedy & Co. Funeral Directors.
