Teresa (Teri) Makutenas, beloved daughter, sister, mother and grandmother, passed away on April 28, 2025. She was 67.

Teri is the daughter of Helen and older sister to Michael (Pam) Makutenas and Lorie (Jim) Pilster.

Teri had fond childhood memories of her weekends at Fox Lake with her grandparents, where she enjoyed boating, camping, water sports, and swimming. Her love of the water followed her throughout her life.

Teri raised three children, John (Joan) Nikischer, Mary (Timothy) Kress, and Ralph (Kara) Nikischer and was known for her years of volunteer work at their school before finally becoming the full-time bookkeeper for over 25 years. She was a wonderful and loving Nana to her five grandchildren, Ben (16), Maggie (15), Adam (8), Freya (5), and Violet (3), whom she referred to as her “reward” for parenting.

Teri also enjoyed traveling, always looking forward to her annual visits to Marco Island and hiking adventures with her sister. She cherished the time spent with her family and friends. Teri was proud of her loud, loving family, and hers is a voice that will truly be missed.

Teri is preceded in death by her father, Charles (Butch) Makutenas, her stepfather, George, and grandparents John Coyle, Helen Coyle, John Makutenas, and Eleanor “Sue” Makutenas (nee Boettcher).

Teri endured much during her life, including having battled both breast and pancreatic cancer, but her strength and courage will forever be an inspiration to all who knew her.

Visitation will be at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55^th Street, Countryside, on Tuesday, May 6^th from 3:00 to 8:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations to PanCan made in her honor would be appreciated.