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Gary Lonak Obituary

Lonak, Gary A. Of Downers Grove, IL. Beloved life partner of Bruce Messick. Loving son of the late Nick and Belvia nee McCormack Lonak. Caring brother of Roger, Ken and Mark. Fond uncle of serveral. Enjoyed acting, teaching, and singing with The Chicago Gay Men's Chorus. A member of the Actor's Equity Union. Visiation will be Thursday, January 19, 2012 from 3-8 pm at Toon Funeral Home 4920 Main Street Downers Grove, IL. All friends and relatives will meet Friday at Notre Dame Catholic Church 64 Norfolk Clarendon Hills, IL Mass 10am. Entombment Queen of Heaven Mausoleum Hillside, IL. Memorials to Chicago Gay Men's Chorus CGMC.org or would be appreciated. For information www.toonfuneralhome.com or 630-968-0408.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Jan. 18, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Gary Lonak

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January 26, 2012

Oh, what a loss for so many, many folks. I knew Gary through Indiana Univ. and his SP network. He was a funny, talented, thoughtful and deeply human person. I will remember working, laughing, and dancing with Gary (at Connie's wedding). I mourn his loss and celebrate his wonderful addition to my life and contributions to the world. The memories will live on and on. Love and support especially to Bruce, whom I've met, and his family, whom I'm sorry I have not.

Good Sam Outpatient Lab

January 25, 2012

We were saddened to hear that Gary is no longer with us. He will be so missed at the Outpatient Lab at Good Samaritan Hospital. Bruce, it was always good to see the two of you and hear about all of the cooking you did for your family and friends. It is comforting to know that he is in God's arms and at peace.

Naomi Landman

January 24, 2012

What a bright, warm, funny, stubborn, caring, wonderful man he was. I always enjoyed seeing Gary at IUNW -- he was a terrific boss for the SP crew. Jean Isaacs must be so glad to see him again -- they'll be laughing together for a long time! Sending good wishes for peace and healing to Bruce and everyone else who loved Gary.

Diane Minarik

January 23, 2012

I was the substitute coordinator at Morton High School when Gary was a day-by-day substitute. He was one of my "favorites" and I treasure the many memories of that time . My thoughts and prayers are with Gary's family and friends.

Mary Ann Hockman

January 21, 2012

Gary was a wonderful and generous friend. From our days together at the Academy of the Performing Arts and Morton East High School, Gary kept everyday fun and exciting. He became a long time family friend! He will be so missed! He fought the long fight with Bruce by his side the entire time. My prayers go out to Bruce and to all of the Lonak family and friends.

May he rest in Peace..from the old Christ Hospital gang who will always remember his huge smile and funny wit! With deepest sympathy

Judy Fishback Paulos

January 19, 2012

June & George Wilson

January 18, 2012

We knew Gary from our days in Equity Library Theatre and worked together both on theatre projects and in medical education. He fought a hard fight. May he now find peace and rest. We'll miss him.

Jody Heisler Hager

January 18, 2012

Condolences to Gary's family and friends. I was a nurse with Gary at Christ Hospital. He always had a smile for everyone and truly cared about his patients. He will be missed. Rest in Peace, Gary.

Barb McCullough

January 18, 2012

I worked with Gary a long time at CHMC not only as a coworker but a friend. My best memories were the two of us riding bikes together to work to lose weight and ice cream on the ride home. I will miss his smile and all the laughter he brought on a daily basis to get us through. My prayers are with his family and life time Partner Bruce through this difficult time.

January 18, 2012

I was a nurse at Christ Hospital when Gary was an orderly.He was the glue that keep us all going with his humor and enthusiasm. He was always there to make a situation run a little smoother. He was our light hearted mediator. My prayers and thoughts are with Bruce and the the Lonak family. Joanne (Skerrett) Patejdl

pat konecki

January 18, 2012

to the family of gary i workedmany years with gary at the hospital and had a lot of good times he was a great guy and im sorry for your loss pat konecki from christ hospital

Beverly Gravelle

January 18, 2012

wishing we could be there for the services. We will miss Gary very much, and are so glad for the friendship we had since high school. Sending love and prayers for the family and Bruce. Bruce, thank you for your love and caring especially during his illness. Please keep in touch. Bev and Alan Gravelle, Laura and Jeannine and families (Southport, NC)

January 18, 2012

Gary was a kind and caring man. He will be missed, glad his suffering is over and peace be with him.
My prayers are with Bruce and the family,
Sorry I can't make the funeral I'm out of town.
Connie Trumbull Winkler

Nancy & Kathy Greco

January 18, 2012

Gary will be missed, but we are so grateful that his suffering is over. He put up a valiant fight and we have many happy memories of working together. Our prayers go out to Bruce and all of the Lonak family.

From the Staff of Toon Funeral Home

January 18, 2012

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

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Memorial Events
for Gary Lonak

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

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Toon Funeral Home - Downers Grove CLOSED

4920 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL 60515

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