Kathleen Marie Zdralevich

Kathleen Marie Zdralevich, age 75, passed away on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, in Joliet, Illinois.

Born and raised in Joliet, Kathy built a life centered on faith, family, and community. In 1974, she married her best friend and the love of her life, Joe Zdralevich Jr. Together they built their home in Shorewood, where they lovingly raised their two children, Kelly and Joey.

Kathy was a parishioner and devoted volunteer at St. Jude Parish and School, where she generously gave her time and talents for many years. She had a remarkable gift for making every season special, especially Christmas, her favorite time of year as she delighted in decorating her home and the family restaurant with beautiful holiday displays that brought joy to family, friends, and the community. When spring and summer arrived, Kathleen could often be found tending to her beautiful flowers that filled her yard, creating a welcoming place for all who visited.

Above all else, Kathy's greatest joy was her family. She treasured raising her children and found immense happiness in spending time with her beloved granddaughters. Her love, kindness, and unwavering devotion to those she cherished will be remembered always.

Kathy was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joe Zdralevich Jr.; her parents, Joseph and Dolores (née Ruwaldt) Dionne; her brother, Joe Dionne; and her brother-in-law, George Zdralevich.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, Kelly Zdralevich, and her daughters, Kaelynn and Kaylie; and her son, Joe (Kelly) Zdralevich III, and their daughters, Peyton, Quinn, and Maeve. She is also survived by her dear siblings, Jim (Jan) Dionne; Dee (Bob) Brandt; and sister-in-laws Sandy Dionne and Mary Kay George; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held with a memorial visitation on Friday, August 14, 2026 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm with a chapel service beginning at 12:00 pm at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL. Following the chapel service, procession to Woodlawn Memorial Park, 23060 W Jefferson St, Joliet, IL will follow where Joe and Kathleen will be laid to rest.

Kathy will be remembered for her warm heart, generous spirit, and the love she poured into her family, her home, and everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her legacy lives on through the traditions she created, the beauty she shared, and the countless memories that will be treasured forever.