Leona G. Benak, affectionately known as Lee, passed away at the age of 87 on June 9, 2025, in Elmhurst, Illinois.
Born on November 27, 1937, Lee led a life marked by deep connections and a love for her family. Lee’s journey began at Blessed Agnes Grammar School, where she first met Robert J. Benak, known as Bob. Despite Bob’s family moving to Elmwood Park, their paths reconnected, leading them to attend each other’s senior proms. Their early friendship blossomed into a loving marriage that lasted 50 years until Bob’s passing. Lee pursued her education further at Lourdes High School and then Brant & Stratton Business College, which paved the way for her career as an executive secretary, a role she dedicated many years to with exceptional skill and professionalism. Family was the cornerstone of Lee’s life.
She was a cherished mother to Debbie (Drew Sr.) Clark, Tom (Catherine) Benak, and the late Joseph R. Benak (Margie). Lee was also a loving sister to the late Richard J. Ranicke (Maxine). Her joy was multiplied as a grandmother to Samantha, Joseph Jr. (Margie), Courtney, Drew Jr., and Summer, and she held a special place in the hearts of many nieces and nephews.
Lee’s hobbies and interests painted the picture of a life well-lived. An avid bowler, golfer, and ping pong player, she relished the opportunity to stay active. Her adventures often found her traveling, especially enjoying cruises with friends and family, as well as swimming, bike riding, and walking. Lee’s warm and sweet personality shone through in her fondness for life’s small joys, such as her love for ice cream and chocolate desserts. Lee’s legacy of love, laughter, and dedication to her family and friends will forever be cherished and remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.
The community will have the opportunity to honor Lee’s life at Pederson Ryberg Funeral Home, located at 435 N York St., Elmhurst, IL, on Monday, June 16th. The schedule includes public visitation from 10 am until the celebration of life service at 12 Noon. Attendees will then travel to Mount Emblem Cemetery for a graveside interment. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Lee can be made to the Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration at theaftd.org.