Racine – Mary Gapko, age 83, passed away unexpectedly, yet peacefully, at home on Friday, December 8, 2023.

Mary was born in Racine on January 12, 1940 to the late Ignatius "Nick" and Bernice (nee: Homintowski) Sowinski. A graduate of William Horlick High School, she went to earn her nursing degree. Mary served our community as a Registered Nurse with St. Mary's Medical Center for many years. On February 3, 1962, Mary was united in marriage with Harold J. Gapko. Sadly, he died suddenly on March 27, 1970.

Among her interests, Mary enjoyed the great outdoors, knitting, crocheting, gardening, photography, cooking, having lunch with neighbors, spoiling her miniature schnauzer, Molly; making people laugh, and was so very generous about showering family & friends with gifts.

Surviving are her children, Joan Swope and Don (Serena) Gapko; grandchildren, Ashley Swope, Dylan Gapko and Haley Gapko; great-grandchildren, Jayden, Tavares, Karter and Johannah; sister, Marge (Bruce) Berg; brother, Allen (Sue) Sowinski; nieces, nephews, other relatives, special neighbors & friends.

Services honoring Mary's life will be held on Friday evening, December 15, 2023 at 6:00 pm in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home with Celebrant Cheri Neal officiating. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Private interment will take place in Sunset Ridge Memorial Park.