Joanne T. (nee Taylor) Gorecki, RN, born July 7, 1959, in Chicago, Illinois, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2026, at the age of 67 in La Porte, Indiana, surrounded by her loving family.
Joanne is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Dr. David Gorecki; her loving children, David (Shayla), Sarah, Caitlin (Andy), Patrick (Taylor), and Elizabeth (Andrei); her cherished grandchildren, Annie, Cecelia, Lucille, Declan, Saoirse, Jack, and Luke; and her expecting grandson, David Gorecki III. She is also survived by her sisters Margaret Grant, Kathy Taylor, and Julie Taylor (Mike Stanley), brother-in-law Hank Rose, sister-in-law Chris Taylor, and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents, James Nolan Taylor (CPD ret.) and Dorothy Therese (nee Vail) Taylor; siblings Mary Margaret, Kevin (CPD ret.), Debbie (CFD ret.), Janis, and Barbara (the late Bruce) Becker; and brother-in-law Ken Grant.
Joanne was a proud graduate of St. Angela School, Class of 1973, Trinity High School, Class of 1977, and Truman College of Nursing. She worked with Andy Frain Services at theaters, concerts, and sporting events and, in the 1980s, had the unique opportunity to serve as a nurse for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Her true calling was nursing, and she spent more than 30 years as a dedicated ER and ICU nurse, caring for others when they needed it most.
Joanne was a woman of deep faith, an avid reader, creative spirit, passionate gardener, and golf enthusiast. She treasured her lifelong friendships, from childhood friends in Chicago to the wonderful friendships she built in La Porte and through Golf, Questers, La Porte Service League, and La Porte County Historical Society. She especially cherished creating memories with her grandchildren, often hosting family dance parties and reminding them always to be happy. One of her family’s most treasured memories is dancing together to one of her favorite songs, “Happy,” during one of her final days—a moment that perfectly captured Joanne’s joy, warmth, and spirit.
Above all, Joanne was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother and the heart of her family. She was the matriarch who made every holiday special and took immense pride in the lives and accomplishments of her children and grandchildren. She taught them the importance of loving their siblings and supporting each other. Family was everything to Joanne, and her greatest joy was knowing that the people she loved would always be there for one another.
Joanne leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, compassion, and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Visitation will be held from 4PM to 8PM on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel, 1117 Indiana Avenue, La Porte, Indiana, where a Parish Vigil will be at 7:45PM.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be Celebrated at 11AM Friday, October 9, 2026, at Holy Family Parish, St. Peter Church, 1101 Michigan Avenue, La Porte, Indiana.
Family and friends may gather at 10AM Friday morning in the Funeral Home prior to the Mass.
Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to Dunebrook, an organization supporting children and families in need, reflecting Joanne's lifelong commitment to helping others and putting children first. Address: 7451 W. Johnson Rd. Michigan City, Indiana 46360.
Family and friends are invited to light a virtual candle, share a memory, or leave a message of comfort for the family by visiting esslingfuneralhome.com.
