Alyce Gunkel

CHARLESTON, IL – Alyce Gunkel, age 94, passed away peacefully at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center on Monday, May 4, 2020.  A memorial service and family gathering will be scheduled in the coming months as it becomes safer for Alyce’s friends and loved ones to travel. 

Alyce was born June 26, 1925 in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin to John and Josephine Waclawski, the youngest sister to two brothers.  She centered her life around her caring family, raising two daughters and four grandchildren.  During her career, Alyce held various roles, including serving as Regional Manager for Beacon Fabrics at Zayre Department Store before her retirement.

Alyce was an artist whose cross-stitch, knitting, and other crafts grace the walls and homes of many family and friends.  She loved to do puzzles, sew, and celebrate holidays with her family.  Her greatest joy was watching her grandchildren in their activities – sports, performances, concerts, and musicals.  She was a listening ear for many, quick with a joke or the offering of a good meal.

Alyce now joins her parents, her brothers, Steve Waclawski and Henry Meyer; her son-in-law, Roger Giffin; and her eldest daughter, Jorlyce Wange.  She is missed by nieces and nephews; her son-in-law, Clay Wange; her grandchildren, Dawn Cross, Kara Wange, David Giffin and Kevin Giffin; and her youngest daughter and best friend, Jeannine “Jeane” Giffin.

Memorial donations in Alyce’s honor may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Charleston and mailed in care of Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Drive, Charleston, IL 61920.

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