Veronica L. Hastert

Veronica “Vonnie” (Gareski) Hastert, 69, of Aurora, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family and friends on Tuesday, January 24, 2012 after a brave battle with cancer. She was born October 3, 1942 in Aurora, Illinois. Veronica was a devout Catholic. She was employed at Stillman Company for thirty years until her retirement in 2004. Veronica enjoyed fishing, word searches, listening to Bobby Vinton, spending time with her family and attending her grandchildren’s events. Survivors include her daughters, Kathy Smith (Craig) Brenkacz of Aurora and Kimberly (Dave) Neurock of Marengo; her son, Dennis (Deborah) Hastert of Staunton, VA; her grandchildren: Connor, Jacob, Michael, Benjamin, Zachary, Gabriella, Isabella, Gianna, Jordan, Vincent and Nicholas; her brother, Stanley (Viola) Gareski; her sister, Barb Mosher; her brother and sisters-in-law, Richard (Lynn) Hastert, Mary Wilzer and Margaret (Rick) Richter; several special nieces and nephews; and her longtime friend, Pauline Dady. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 23 years, Dennis Hastert, who passed away in May of 2004; her parents, Stanley and Veronica Gareski; her brothers, Albert and Robert Gareski; and her sisters, Rose Bauer and Jean Becker. Vonnie was a loving wife and a caring and devoted mother and grandmother. She touched the lives of many people and will be greatly missed and remembered by her family and all who loved her. Vonnie’s family wishes to greatly thank Dr. Ramesh Kola, Pam, Becky, and the oncology staff at Provena Mercy Center for their excellent care of Veronica over the last year. Also, they thank the VNA of Aurora, especially hospice nurse Heather. Funeral services will be held Saturday, January 28, 2012 from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY at 9:30 AM to Holy Angels Church at 10:00 AM. Fr. Randy Fronek will officiate with interment to follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, January 27, 2012 from 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, with a Liturgical Wake Service at 5:00 PM, at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 N. Lake St., Aurora, IL 60506. 630-631-5500. Please visit our new interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Veronica’s name to cancer charities.

Veronica L. Hastert

October 3, 1942 - January 24, 2012