Obituary of Joyce M. Walling

Joyce M. Walling née Kogut, 82, of Blue Island, passed from this life on Wednesday, November 13, 2024.

Joyce was the beloved wife of the late Loren Walling, who passed away in 2002.  She is the loving mother of Joan M. (James) Grupka and Stephen A. (Sandy Grummel).  Joyce was preceded in death by her daughter-in-law Joanne DeVenuto Walling who passed away in 2006.  She is the devoted grandmother of Wendy (Brian) Leonard, Molly and Brittany Grupka, Daniella (Sam) Mather, and Jessica and Ryan Walling. Joyce is the treasured great-grandmother of John Leonard. Joyce was the dear sister to the late James (Arlene) Kogut and the late Dr. Paul (Dr. Amy) Kogut. She is the esteemed aunt to many nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory.

Joyce was born August 14, 1942 in Blue Island to the late Walter and Violet Kogut née Hujda. She was a life long resident of Blue Island, longtime parishioner of St. Benedict Church/St. Mary Magdalene Parish, and an administrative assistant at Blue Island School District 130 for 30 years.  Joyce loved to shop, cook, and spend time with her family and friends.  She spent many cherished years raising her children, grandchildren, and beloved pets.  Joyce was a kind, gentle person who always had time to listen, brightened the lives of all who knew her, and made friends everywhere she went.  She was loved and will be dearly missed by her family and innumerable friends.

A celebration of Joyce’s life will take place on Sunday, November 24th at Gatto's Restaurant located at 8005 W. 183rd Street, Tinley Park, IL 60487. The family invites you to come by at your convenience between 12 PM and 4 PM to enjoy a buffet luncheon in her honor sharing stories, good company, and fond memories. If you would like to contribute in Joyce’s memory, donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital are greatly appreciated.  Interment will be held privately at St. Benedict Cemetery.