Gail Kathryn Vijuk, 56, of Oak Park, died on July, 14, 2024, after a short illness. Born on Sept. 10, 1967 in Kapuskasing, Ontario, to the late Robert and Sally Vijuk (nee Bensette), she moved to Nairobi, Kenya for two years, and later to Illinois. The experience of living in three countries as a child ignited a lifelong love of travel and learning. Forever identifying proudly as a Canadian, she was also passionate about hockey and the Montreal Canadiens.
She was able to marry her wife, Barbara Uher Vijuk, on their 10th anniversary in Toronto, Ontario, and they celebrated 19 additional years together.
The CFO for a nonprofit, she was once described as a “more is more kind of gal.” She loved and advocated as fiercely as she celebrated.
Gail is also survived by her sons, Gabriel, Dean and Henry Vijuk; her sister, Helen Haggith (Jason Pongracz); her nephews, Michael Haggith (Tianna Rice) and Robert Haggith; and her cousin Mark (Ellen) Sibincic.
A memorial service was held on July 20 at the 19th Century Club, 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park.
Those wishing to honor her memory through contributions or acts of service are asked to consider advancing those causes Gail was most passionate about: adoption, racial justice, and minority youth participation in hockey.
Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared with the family at www.KuratkoNosek.com.