Geraldine Zamco

Geraldine “Geri” Rose Edith Fricek Zamco, 87, of Springfield, passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2024, at Loyola University Medical Center. She was born February 18, 1937, in Chicago, the daughter of George and Rose (Klapp) Fricek and they preceded her in death. She married Milan Zamco on July 8, 1961, and he survives.

Also surviving are her daughter, Jerilynn “Gogi” Shipley, grandson, Spencer Miles Shipley, both of Springfield, several cousins, and many gracious, lifelong friends.

Geri dedicated herself to the growth and development of countless students, first through her seven years at Farragut School in Chicago and later at Lawrence Education Center, from which she retired after 23 years of committed service. Her passion for teaching was matched only by her devotion to her faith. As a long-standing member of Christ the King Catholic Church, she found strength and community.

Those who knew Geri will fondly remember her as a wonderful mother and housewife, who filled her home with warmth and laughter. Her love for the many shades of purple, especially when embellished in rhinestones and sequins, reflected her vibrant personality and her belief that every day was an occasion to celebrate. Geri's zest for life was infectious, and her ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary made her an unforgettable presence. A consummate hostess, Geri's parties were the epitome of her philosophy: "Life's a stage, so why not wear a costume?" She embraced this mantra, encouraging everyone around her to find joy in the performance of life and make every moment a fashion statement by wearing your best self.

Services taking place in Springfield, IL are as follows:

Visitation: 4 – 8 pm, Monday, October 28, 2024, with a second visitation from 11 am – 12:30 pm, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, both at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield.

Funeral Service: 12:30 pm, Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield with Very Reverend Christopher House officiating.

Information: Staab Funeral Home 217-528-6461 or staabfuneralhomes.com

Services taking place in Brookfield, IL are as follows:

Visitation: 4 – 8 pm, Friday, November 1, 2024, with a second visitation from 12 – 1 pm, Saturday, November 2, 2024, both at Hitzeman Funeral Home.

Funeral Service: 1 pm, Saturday, November 2, 2024, at Hitzeman Funeral Home.

A burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Forest Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702 or to an animal rescue charity of the donor’s choice.

Information: Hitzeman Funeral Home 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

For those of you that would like to express your condolences to the family, please click on the link below and you can leave the family a message. If you wish to send a sympathy card to the family, please feel free to send it to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513, c/o   Geri Zamco's Family. We will gladly forward it on to the family.