Theresa Luczak

Theresa Ann Luczak, 87, of Collinsville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Chesterfield, Missouri.

She was born on June 15, 1938, in Granite City, Illinois, a daughter of the late Otto David Rafaelle Sr. and Norine (Bott) Rafaelle. Theresa married the love of her life, Frank G. Luczak Jr., on September 11, 1965, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Glen Carbon. They shared a devoted marriage until his passing on January 19, 2008.

Theresa had been employed as a dental assistant, but her greatest calling was her family. A devoted wife and loving mother, she dedicated her life to nurturing her children with unconditional love, guidance, and care.

She was a faithful and active member of Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Maryville, where she belonged to the St. Anne’s Altar Society and the Legion of Mary. Deeply devoted to her Catholic faith and parish community, Theresa was known for her daily prayers of the Rosary, teaching catechism, assisting with parish activities, and cheerfully volunteering at church functions, including chicken dinners and card parties.

Theresa enjoyed cooking for family gatherings, watching musicals, playing Bunko and other games, and traveling—especially her treasured trips to Las Vegas with family and friends. She embraced life fully, cherished the memories she made with loved ones, never met a stranger, and will be fondly remembered as a true social butterfly whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met.

She is survived by her son, Mark Francis Luczak of Collinsville; two daughters and sons-in-law, Dina Gerise and Robert Kerberick of Glen Carbon, and Kathleen Suzanne and Paul Vogt of Collinsville; step-grandchildren, Nicholas Kerberick, Ross Kerberick, and Rebecca Elliott; a brother, John Rafaelle of Glen Carbon; a sister-in-law, Doris Rafaelle of Glen Carbon; nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends.

In addition to her beloved husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Rosemary Rafaelle; her brother, Otto David Rafaelle; and her sister-in-law, Jackie Rafaelle.

In celebration of her life, visitation will be held at Irwin Chapel, 591 Glen Crossing Road in Glen Carbon, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Maryville, with Father Rob Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Edwardsville.

Memorials may be made to Mother of Perpetual Help Catholic Church or to Masses. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home