Marie Theresa Pikul, 78, of Cicero, Illinois, passed away peacefully on December 26, 2024, at her home in Indian Trail, NC. Marie was a beloved mother, grandmother, great- grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and dog mom who will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her 3 children, Richard (Joann), Michelle and Valerie. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren, Jacob, Joseph, Marisa, Lauren, Maria, Morgan, Thomas, Mackenzie, Bailey and Matthew and four great-grandchildren, McKenna, Olivia, Jett, and Hudson; and sister, Joann (Matt).

She was passionately involved in politics supporting the Republican party. Her personal hero was and always will be Ronald Reagan. She actively campaigned for him and attended both of his inaugurations in 1981 and 1985.

Marie was an academically gifted student with a deep love of learning. She spent her younger years in the pursuit of education and knowledge and was the first in her family to attend a university. She paused her education to marry and raise a family and returned to school earning an associate degree later in life.

Marie spent many years working as a salesperson for the Chicago Tribune, representing them at countless events throughout the Chicagoland area. She also worked for the Town of Cicero until her retirement in 2021, when she moved to Charlotte, NC for relaxation and warmer weather.

She will be remembered for her infectious smile, generous spirit, boundless energy, unwavering convictions, and a style that was all her own. Marie was always the life of the party and loved her family.

Marie was a faithful Christian with a deep love of God and Country.

She loved to play Italian Dice, Scrabble, and Connect Four and enjoyed old movies, reading, Downton Abbey, theatre, opera, red wine, and all things pink.

A short visitation and prayer service will be held on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, in honor of her favorite number seven, at 11:00am at Holland Funeral Home in Monroe, NC. Her final resting place will be in the Forest Lawn East cemetery in Matthews, NC.

A celebration of life will be held at on February 22, 2025, at 1:00pm at

Sawa's Old Warsaw Restaurant at 9200 West Cermak Road, Broadview, Illinois.

Friends and family in the Chicagoland area are welcome to celebrate with us.

Holland Funeral Service is serving the Pikul Family.