Deborah Alice (Knaff) Gualandri

Deborah Alice Gualandri of Lake Bluff, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at Highland Park Hospital. She was born on March 18, 1955, in Highland Park, the cherished only child of Edward Knaff and Margaret Giamo.

Deborah attended Immaculate Conception School and Elm Place School before graduating from Highland Park High School in 1973. On September 14, 1974, she married her beloved husband, Joseph Gualandri, at Immaculate Conception Church, where they began their life together and started their family.

Deborah’s career spanned several decades, including time at the Villa St. Cyril in Highland Park alongside her mother-in-law Marianna Gualandri, Illinois Bell Telephone Company, and more than 30 years as the manager of The Salon of Lake Forest. Her dedication to her work and family was unwavering.

A devoted member of Immaculate Conception Church and the Highwood Bocce Ball Club, Deborah found joy in community and connection. She had a passion for cooking and baking, often experimenting with new recipes to delight her husband and son. She also loved playing slot machines and attending local festivals, where her vibrant spirit shone through.

Deborah was a loving wife of 50 years to Joseph and a caring mother to her late daughter, Tanya, who passed away on June 12, 1985, and to her son, Joey Jr. She was a dear sister-in-law to Valerie (the late Stefano) Carani and a beloved aunt to Dennis (Isa) Carani, Robert Carani and Sondra (Bill) Higel. She took great pride in being a great-aunt to Cristian and Daniella Carani and Samantha and Jason Higel.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 14, 2024, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at Seguin & Symonds Funeral Home, 858 Sheridan Road, Highwood. Friends are invited to gather on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the time of the Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at Christ Our Hope Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, 770 Deerfield Road, Highland Park, with Rev. James Merold as celebrant. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville.

Deborah's kindness, love, and spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May she rest in peace.

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