On April 23rd, 2017 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Jennifer Elizabeth Gureckis, 28, received her angel wings after a courageous battle with recurring brain cancer. She was surrounded by her loving parents, brother, sister and their families. After beating brain cancer 5 years ago, she never took a day, hour or second for granted. Jen never let cancer define her. She had the happiest smile and the brightest eyes through it all. Her compassion for the well-being of others always exceeded any discomfort for herself.
Jennifer was born on December 16, 1988 in Nashua, NH to John (Pops) and Sandi Gureckis. She is preceded in Heaven by her paternal grandparents, Adam and Evelyn Gureckis.
She is survived by her brother, John and his wife Emily Gureckis, and her sister, Heather and her husband Justin Mucci. Jen was cherished by her nieces and nephews, Giavanna and Nico Mucci and Jackson and Evelyn Gureckis. Jen has two surviving maternal grandparents, Robert and Pauline Palmer in Satellite Beach, FL. Jennifer’s extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins were always able to provide comfort and support. Lastly, her beloved dog, Lance, was always by her side.
Jen completed her degree from St. Anselm College in 2011 with a Bachelor’s in Biology even after her diagnosis. Prior to St. Anselm College, Jennifer attended New Hampton Prep School. Jen’s love for basketball followed her throughout her life, playing on multiple teams, which is how she met some of her closest, dearest friends that became part of her family. Her dedicated support system of friends continually raised her spirits with their love and rambunctious comradery.
She enjoyed sharing her passion for interior design while working at Pier One Imports. Her fun and creative personality found a perfect home connecting with people throughout her day.
Her family instilled a deep-rooted work ethic through sports and life that carried itself into her passion for working out. Throughout her victories and setbacks, her iron will and fierce determination always found the way to get to the gym. You could see her beaming smile grow and the twinkle in her eye shine as she picked up a ball or finished a tough run because she knew today was a good day.
Jen was especially proud of her brother and sister. John was recently promoted to Major in the US Air Force, helping students realize their dream to serve and attend the Air Force Academy. Jen followed in Heather’s footsteps, working toward her RN. She always admired Heather for her selfless care to others. Heather is currently an assistant manager for St. Joseph’s Hospital surgical oncology unit.
Jennifer’s compassion for others was unmatched. Jen sought out clinical trials for her treatment with the hope that her contribution would advance research toward finding a cure. Her family will continue to carry her compassion with support through the National Brain Tumor Society Walk in Boston with her Strength in Stride team.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Jenny Fund GoFundMe page. The donations will support her Mass General Hospital cancer team as they push for a cure through the Translational Brain Tumor Immunology Laboratory and other progressive outreach programs.
Calling hours will be held at the FARWELL FUNERAL HOME, 18 Lock St, Nashua, NH on Friday April 28th from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 9pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Saint Patrick’s Church, Spring St. Nashua, NH on Saturday April 29th at 10am. All are invited to attend and are asked to gather at the Church. Interment will follow at Saint Patrick’s Cemetery in Hudson, NH. Arrangements are in the care of the FARWELL FUNERAL SERVICE. (603) 882-0591. www.farwellfuneralservice.com
