Funeral Details

Toni Fabric (Katz) was a true warrior in her fight against pancreatic cancer. She passed away peacefully at the age of 52 on September 11, 2021. She spent her last days much as she had lived, surrounded by her loving family and loyal friends. Toni’s bravery as she faced her disease was matched only by the desire she had to remain with her husband and children for as long as possible.

Preceded in death by her father Edward Katz, and mother-in-law Claire Fabric, Toni is survived by her devoted husband and daughters Darren, Karli, Samantha and Jessi, as well as her mother Connie Katz, father-in-law Kenneth Fabric, siblings Michael (Jacqueline) Katz, Randi Kessler, Nanci (Craig) Truen, Stephanie (Gregg) Falberg, Jason (Sylvia) Fabric, Andrea (David) Florsheim, and many nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and dear friends.
Born on June 12, 1969 at Long Island Jewish Hospital, Toni grew up the baby of four siblings, all of whom maintain a close and special relationship despite geographical distance. Though she ventured off to attend the University of Wisconsin, Toni always carried a bit of home with her and never quite stopped being a New Yorker. An interest and talent in fashion led Toni to numerous successful endeavors in the retail world, while her flair for entertaining helped Toni in her work as a party planner.

While in Madison, Toni met her adoring husband Darren and together they built many friendships that continue to this day. Following her graduation, Toni and Darren established their home in Chicago and began to create the beautiful family that she was so proud of. Eventually settling in Highland Park, Toni focused on her family and what would make them happy. She formed play groups, volunteered at the girls’ schools, attended work out classes, learned to play paddle, and so many things in between. At each stop, Toni made more friends.
Unfortunately, in the fall of 2017, Toni received the news that “rocked her world.” Still in shock, she decided to combat the unimaginable diagnosis with positivity and hope. Toni, with Darren by her side and incredible support of family and friends, got to work fighting pancreatic cancer and all that came with it - treatments, side effects, restrictions on travel and limitations on everyday activities. Darren and the girls call Toni their hero - a wonder woman, drawing on super strength and unparalleled courage these last four years. This characterization is only fitting for someone who fought so hard and long for just a little more time with her family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation, 4255 N Honore St., Suite 209, Chicago, IL 60613, www.rolfefoundation.org or Makom Solel Lakeside, 1301 Clavey Rd Highland Park, IL 60035, www.mymakom.org or JourneyCare, 2050 Claire Court, Glenview, IL 60025, www.journeycare.org/ways-to-give. Arrangements by Chicago Jewish Funerals - Skokie Chapel, 847.229.8822, www.cjfinfo.com