Geraldine "Geri" Baginski, age 76, of Chicago, passed away on May 23, 2020 in her home in Wicker Park.   Beloved daughter of the late Walter and Helen Baginski; dear sister of Gloria ( the late Ron ) Derengowski; fond aunt of Ron ( Jennifer ) Derengowski and Michael ( Kristina ) Derengowski; loving great-aunt of Hudson Derengowski.

Geri was a vibrant, active and educated woman who would never shy away from providing her viewpoint to various topics in life.  Being a lifelong resident of Wicker Park, she believed in the importance of the history preservation for the Polish community.  Passionately, she informed other Wicker Park residents and City leaders of the importance of keeping the history alive.  Most importantly she loved teaching others about the Wicker Park community.

Being a devout Catholic, Geri was very active in St. Helen's parish.  Many of the parishioners love the spirit that Geri would show while she was lecturing at Mass.

A graduate of DePaul University, Geri's professional career until retirement included teaching Spanish and French at Schurz High School and Wells Academy.  She was an avid traveler who found a great fascination with seeing the world.  Her education and traveling experience gave her the opportunity to leave an impact on thousands of Chicago Public School students.  "Señorita Baginski" as students referred to her, always found a way to teach her love of Spanish.

Geri was involved in many activities to pass the time.  Some of her favorites included listening to Bob Dylan or Elvis Gospel music, watching Audrey Hepburn and dancing the night away.  She was also very involved in many committees including the Wicker Park Committee.  She loved to participate in church bingo and take classes at the Health Club.

She had an imprint on every person she met.  Geri was loved by many and will be missed by all.

Services will be held on Monday, June 8, 2020 from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 Noon at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2315 W. Augusta Blvd. ( at N. Oakley Blvd. ), Chicago, IL  60622 .  Immediately following will be a private Mass and graveside burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Geri's name to St. Helen's Parish.