Denise Boudreau, age 67

Denise Lynn Boudreau, nee Slaboszewski, passed away on July 6, 2026, leaving behind a life beautifully marked by faith, service, friendship, humor, and a generous heart that seemed always ready to say, “Yes – I’ll help.”

Born into the Slaboszewski family, Denise carried with her deep Joliet roots, a strong Catholic faith, and a lifelong devotion to people and communities she loved. She was the beloved daughter of the late Eugene “Gene” Slaboszewski and Sandy Slaboszewski, and the cherished sister of Kathy Scent and brother-in-law of Steve. Denise came from a family that valued faith, loyalty, neighborhood ties, laughter, and showing up for one another – values she lived fully in her own quiet and meaningful way.

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Denise gave 32 years of service in the Franciscan community, where her work reflected the same qualities those closest to her knew so well: dependability, compassion, humility, and a willingness to do whatever needed to be done. She was the kind of person who did not need attention or praise; she simply stepped forward. Whether at work, in her parish, or among friends and neighbors, Denise was a helper in the truest sense.

Her faith was an important part of her life. A parishioner of St. Mary Nativity, Joliet, Denise served as a Eucharistic Minister and volunteered at many church functions over the years. She gave generously of her time and spirit, finding joy in being useful, present, and kind. Her service extended far beyond church walls. She was involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters, served as a literacy mentor helping others learn to read, walked dogs at the humane society, served as secretary for her condo board, and even took vacation time from work to help build homes on a Native American reservation – despite, as her family lovingly remembers, not really knowing how to swing a hammer.

That was Denise. If someone needed help, she found a way to help.

She had a special place in her heart for children and for those who needed extra care. Though Denise was never blessed with children of her own – something she had deeply hoped for – she had a mother’s heart. She cared tenderly for a special boy named Nick as he faced the difficult journey of a heart transplant, walking beside him with love, encouragement, and devotion. Denise found happiness in others’ successes and family moments, celebrating their joy as though it were her own.

Denise also knew how to enjoy life – among that which brought her joy was music – especially Eagles and Fleetwood Mac – she loved reading, square-dancing, calling bingo, her Slovenian Club gatherings, and organizing Cubs season tickets and outings. She was a loyal Chicago Cubs fan and enjoyed the simple fellowship that came with a shared game, a good laugh, familiar faces, and a cold Miller Lite.

Denise had many friends throughout her life who cared for her dearly. She built friendships through kindness, faithfulness, and the simple gift of being there. Her presence was steady. Her heart was open. Her life was one of service, not in grand gestures, but in hundreds of thoughtful, generous acts that made others feel supported, remembered, and loved.

Denise is survived by her loving sister, Kathy (Steve) Scent; Uncle Jack Slaboszewski, Aunt Diane and Bill Madigan, Aunt Rita and Uncle Don Slaboszewski; and many cousins and dear friends whose lives were better because Denise was part of their lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Eugene “Gene” Slaboszewski and Sandy Slaboszewski; her infant siblings, Jacqueline and Eugene; her grandparents, Elizabeth “Betty” and John Slaboszewski, Aunt JoLynn McMahon, and other beloved family members who surely welcomed her Home.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, July 19, 2:00-5:00 PM at the Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, corner of Routes 30 & 59, Plainfield. Family and friends will gather for the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, July 20, 10:00 AM at St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church, 706 N. Broadway St., Joliet. Inurnment will follow at Plainfield Township Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to ALS United Chicago, 5315 N. Clark St., Suite 650, Chicago, IL 60640 or St. Mary Nativity Church.

Denise will be remembered for countless reasons, but most of all, for being a generous soul who loved unconditionally, and gave without hesitation. May we all live each day striving to be a little it more like our “D”…oh, how we will miss you – until we meet again.