Clare Pikunas

Clare Therese Pikunas, (née Rudd)

Born into Life: February 12, 1991 – Born into Eternity: May 16, 2026

Clare Therese Pikunas, née Rudd, 35, of Evergreen Park, Illinois, Entered eternal rest on May 16, 2026. Born and raised on the Northwest Side of Chicago, Clare lived a life marked by deep love for her family, kindness toward others, and a steady, quiet compassion that stayed with everyone who knew her.

Clare attended Saint Francis Borgia School, where she began her education and first formed the strong values of faith, community, and discipline that would guide her throughout her life. She later attended Guerin College Preparatory High School, where she was known for her kindness, her steady presence, and the genuine friendships she built along the way. She went on to Carthage College, earning a degree in Sociology. During her time there, Clare developed a deep understanding of people and relationships, and a strong respect for dignity and care at every stage of life. It was during this time, her passion for working with senior citizens began to grow, eventually shaping the path she would dedicate herself to.

Clare spent many years working at Norwood Crossing, where she served as Life Enrichment Director. She approached her work with heart and intention, always focused on making others feel seen, valued, and cared for. She had a natural way of connecting with people, bringing comfort and small moments of joy into the lives of residents and coworkers alike. Those who worked alongside her will remember her quiet compassion, her consistency, and the warmth she carried into each day.

Above all else, Clare’s most cherished role was being a stay-at-home mother. She devoted herself fully to raising her two sons, building a home rooted in love, patience, and stability. She was deeply present in their lives through the routines, the milestones, the challenges, and the everyday moments that matter most. Clare created a home where her children always felt safe, supported, and loved without question. Through the way she lived and cared for them, she taught them kindness, empathy, and strength, values that will stay with them always.

Clare is survived by her devoted husband, Kevin Pikunas; her loving sons, Adam and Connor; her parents, Jim and Cathy Rudd (née Irwin); her sisters, Margaret and Colleen Rudd; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins who loved her dearly. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her quiet strength, and the deep care she showed to everyone in her life.

She will be forever missed and always loved.

Visitation for Clare will take place on Tuesday, May 26, 2026 from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge, Illinois. The funeral will take place the following day beginning at the funeral home at 9:30 am and then proceed to St. Edward Church 4350 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60630 for 11:00 am Mass. Interment will follow at St. Casimir Catholic Cemetery.