Leona Louise Goraleski passed away on August 29, 2026. 

Leona was my eldest cousin. She was my mother Helen’s favorite niece, and when my mom entered her later years of life, Leona and I became very close.

Leona, or Lee as she liked to be called, was a fiercely independent woman of many accomplishments. It was easy to love Lee. It was easy to make her your favorite. She was quick to laugh, exceptionally sharp, very observant, and loyal. If you wanted a friend you could rely on to always tell you the truth, that was Lee.

Lee was a woman of sport, adventure, sparkling wit, grace and action. She was widely respected for her professional career as an executive secretary to some of Chicago’s most esteemed corporate officers. She was invaluable to the companies she worked for, often retaining her job after a boss had moved on, retired or transferred away. It’s likely she held the key to all the corporate secrets. Lee took great pride in her work and she respected others who worked hard. Her first office experience came through a work-study program at Jones Commercial High School in 1960. That first brave step led to a successful career that spanned over 40 years. She held posts at corporations including the Illinois Company, Hamilton Investments, Homart Development and General Growth Properties.

In her leisure time, Lee spent time with friends, her beloved Shih Tzu dogs and on the golf course.  Lee loved the game of golf, and the camaraderie of her fellow golfers. She was incredibly proud of a championship trophy that was presented to her by the pro golfer, Jack Niklaus. She won golf competitions and played the game well into her later years. She knew how to fly a helicopter and when asked if it was hard, she replied, “It wasn’t easy!” She studied the Japanese language when she was up for a job there, and she drove a convertible Mustang. The thirst for adventure and freedom was in her blood.

Lee was devoted to her partner of many years, William Vail, with whom she is now reunited in Heaven. 

Lee’s beloved Shih Tzu dogs were her true pride & joy. Her home and heart were always full, completely devoted to her cherished companions: Cricket, Ozzie, Panda, Boy, and her rescued sweetheart, Hollie. Lee was a long-time member of the Chicagoland Shih Tzu Club, comprised of breeders, exhibitors, and Shih Tzu pet lovers, where she formed cherished friendships. She was very involved with business meetings, social events, communications, and supported the efforts of Shih Tzu rescue groups. For years, Lee served as the Team Chairperson for the Club's annual AKC Specialty Show. In this vital role, she managed the complex details required to secure AKC approval, seamlessly coordinating the event in conjunction with the Wheaton Kennel Club's All-Breed Dog Show. Lee’s contributions helped to achieve a successful & enjoyable event and assured the participants their place in the spotlight.

A devout Catholic, Lee, anchored her life in her faith. She was devoted to Saint Pio, known as Padre Pio, the Patron Saint of healing, who was canonized in 2002. She was a dedicated parishioner of St. Andrew the Apostle in Romeoville, at her childhood church in Berwyn, and here at St Thomas the Apostle. Lee’s rosary and prayer books were never far from her side, and her trust in God guided her through every chapter of her life, especially during the challenging periods. If you told her your troubles, she would pray for you without hesitation.

Leona is survived by her numerous Goraleski cousins including Tom Gorell, Kathy Walrath, Richard Gorell, Barbara Harper, Carl Goraleski, Stephen J. Smith, Joan Walsh, Karen Goraleski, Susan Weiner, Susan Smith Phillips, Debra Lazzarini, and Regina Smith.

Leona was preceded in death by her beloved partner, Bill Vail, her parents Stanley and Mildred Goraleski of Chicago Illinois, and her many aunts and uncles, including Helen G. Smith – her favorite aunt (my mother).

Rest in Peace, dear Leona. I hope the angels are golfing with you!

Leona's funeral Mass will be on September 30, 2026 at 11 am at St Thomas the Apostle Church, 500 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL 60563 .   In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Leona’s charities of choice: American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/  or the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/