South Cook News

Geraldine A. "Gerry" Piven, 81, of Lemont, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 8, 2025. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Walter and Ann (Murgas) Heintz on November 21, 1943, she was the eldest of three sisters. Gerry graduated from Nazareth Academy in La Grange Park and worked at Amphenol Industrial, where she met and married her beloved husband of 54 years, Wayne. The couple relocated to Lemont, Illinois, to raise their family and became active members of the S.S. Cyril and Methodius community.

Gerry cherished spending time with her family and friends. She served as a devoted "Nana" to her grandchildren, enthusiastically supporting them at their sporting events. Gerry and Wayne enjoyed annual cruises with loved ones, fueling their passion for travel.

Despite her Alzheimer's diagnosis, Gerry demonstrated strength and resilience throughout her battle with the disease, supported by her family and friends. Her bright smile and fiery spirit served as a beacon of light during challenging times.

Gerry was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Wayne Piven, and her sister Judy (Heintz) Pierce. She is survived by her son Kevin Piven, daughter Michelle (Bob) Strugala, sister Betty (Heintz) Lilly, grandchildren Kevin, Kaylee, Ava, Teagan, and Bobby, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, July 13, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Markiewicz Funeral Home, P.C., located at 108 Illinois St, Lemont, IL. The funeral service will take place on Monday, July 14, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., and the Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. at S.S. Cyril & Methodius Church in Lemont, Illinois. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org.

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