Gail Friesema, 77, a resident of Oak Park since 1978, died peacefully in River Forest on Feb. 8, 2026. Born on March 21, 1948, she was a gifted singer and a proud member of the Chicago Symphony Chorus, with whom she performed for 35 years. Singing was one of her great joys in life and she cherished the camaraderie, discipline, and artistry that came with performing alongside fellow musicians. Over the years, she contributed her voice to some of the world’s most celebrated orchestral works under the direction of Sir Georg Solti, Daniel Barenboim, and Riccardo Muti. She also sang at Ravinia, the Lyric Opera House, and locally with the Heritage Chorale. She taught voice lessons in her home, at Downers Grove High School, at Trinity Christian College in Tinley Park, and other institutions around Chicagoland.
A devoted member of the Oak Park community, she volunteered for many years at the Economy Shop and enjoyed gardening at Cheney Mansion. She was known for her warmth, humor, and the kindness, which she extended to everyone. She will be deeply missed.
Gail is survived by her husband, Bill Friesema; her son, Dave Friesema; her daughter, Katie Friesema; and many other family members and dear friends.
An informal memorial gathering will be held at Peterson-Bassi Funeral Home, 6938 W. North Ave., Chicago on Saturday, Feb. 14, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
