Claudia J. Panek, nee Stafiej, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024. Beloved wife of John E. Panek, mother of David, Jeffery (Vickie), Michael, and Kimberly (William). Grandmother of Kyle, Ryan, Adam, Fletcher, and Quinn. Oldest sister to nine siblings, sister-in-law, aunt, great aunt, great-great aunt, and cousin to many. Claudia was a great friend to countless others.

Claudia was born in Chicago on November 17, 1942. She was married to John for 62 years. Claudia’s life brought her many titles she was proud of including PTO President, Boy Scouts of America Illinois Commissioner, Religious Education Coordinator at Holy Cross Church, Village Market Store Manager, Accounts Receivables Clerk, Hospitality Chair Person of the Chicago Bottle Club, and Lifetime member of the National Bottle Museum and the Federation of Historical Bottle Collectors. 

Claudia traveled the world by air, land and sea. Her grandsons were the pride of her later life. She spent many adventures with family and friends visiting casinos near and far. She enjoyed all Chicago sports teams, The Hallmark Channel, HGTV, and PBS. An era has ended with the passing of THE GOLDEN ONE. 

A visitation will be held on Monday, December 16th, 2024 -from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM  and  Tuesday, December 17th, 2024 -from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM - Kelley & Spalding Funeral Home - 1787 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, IL 60035. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, December 17th, 2024 - at 10:30 AM - at Holy Cross Church - 724 Elder Lane, Deerfield, IL 60015. The burial will be held at St. Adalbert Cemetery, Niles, IL. Donations in memory of Claudia may be made to PBS WTTW Chicago.