Gail K. Vijuk

Gail Kathryn Vijuk, 56, of Oak Park, IL, passed away on July 14, 2024, after a short illness.

Gail was born on September 10, 1967 in Kapuskasing, Ontario, to the late Robert and Sally Vijuk (nee Bensette), where she lived until moving to Nairobi, Kenya for two years, and later to Illinois. The experience of living in three countries as a child ignited a life-long love of travel and learning. Forever identifying proudly as a Canadian, she was also passionate about hockey and the Montreal Canadiens. 

She was able to marry her beloved wife Barbara Uher Vijuk on their 10th anniversary in Toronto, Ontario, and they celebrated 19 additional years together. Gail is also survived by her amazing sons Gabriel, Dean and Henry Vijuk, her dear sister Helen Haggith (Jason Pongracz), her nephews Michael Haggith (Tianna Rice) and Robert Haggith, and cousin Mark (Ellen) Sibincic.

Gail was once described as a “more is more kind of gal”, and she loved and advocated as fiercely as she celebrated. A memorial service as fabulous as she was, will be held on Saturday, July 20, 2024, promptly at 4:00pm at the 19th Century Club at 178 Forest Avenue, Oak Park. Visitation with the family will be available there from one hour prior (3:00pm) and again one hour after.

Those wishing to honor her memory through contributions or acts of service are asked to consider advancing those causes Gail was most passionate about: adoption, racial justice, and minority youth participation in hockey.