Angelika “Gailie” Clark (1954 – 2025)

Angelika “Gailie” Clark, 71, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2025, in her home in Valparaiso, IN, surrounded by her loving family. A devoted wife, mother, Oma, sister and

friend; Gailie’s warmth, kindness, and selflessness touched the lives of all who knew her.

Born in Altenau, Germany, on February 12, 1954, to Ilija and Erika Karna, Gailie immigrated to the United States at the age of 4, alongside her sisters Anka and Monika.

She was raised in Northwest Indiana, where she attended Lew Wallace High School before going on to work at Jacob’s Engineering.

Gailie met the love of her life, Ray, on their daily South Shoreline train commute. Though she had often noticed him passing by, it wasn’t until Ray “accidentally” dropped

his train pass that they finally struck up a conversation, sparking a love story that would last for over 50 years. They married on September 12, 1982, at St. George in

Schererville, IN, and spent their years together exploring the world, creating memories, and supporting each other in every adventure. Gailie and Ray cherished their children, Kristine and Jonathan, and were eager to share their love of travel and adventure with them. In her 50s, Gailie took up running marathons with her daughter, Kristine, and the two traveled across the country together, embracing the challenge of new races and experiences. Jonathan, her son, holds dear the memories of family vacations around the globe, filled with laughter, delicious meals, and unforgettable moments. Gailie’s heart grew even larger when her grandsons, Adlar and Odis, came into her life. She lovingly spoke German to them, and her boundless love and devotion as an Oma brought joy and laughter into their home. She was always there for her family, dropping everything to be by their side when they needed her.

Gailie will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her compassionate nature, and her bright blue eyes that reflected the love she gave so freely. She was a woman of strength, grace, and generosity. She is preceded in death by her parents, Ilija and Erika Karna, and her sister Monika Nadolski. She leaves behind her beloved husband, Ray; her children, Kristine (Matt) and Jonathan; her cherished grandsons, Adlar and Odis; and her sister, Anka.

Though she is no longer with us, Gailie’s legacy of love, kindness, and devotion will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, August 9^th, 2025  at 10:45 AM St Elijah Serbian Orthodox Cathedral, 8700 Taft Street, Merrillville, IN with V. Rev Aleksandar Novakovic officiating; with visitation beginning at 9:45am. Interment Calumet Park Cemetery. May Gailie’s soul rest in peace and may her memory be eternal.

For further information please call Mileva at Calumet Park Funeral Chapel (219) 736-5840.