Harriet Vacketta

Harriet Vacketta, 75, of Oakwood passed away on July 28, 2015 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana with her family by her side. She was born on February 21, 1940 in Danville, the daughter of Ralph and Berniece (Krakoski) Hays. Harriet was united in marriage to Jerald Vacketta on July 25, 1959 in Westville. He survives. She is also survived by two daughters, Lisa Watson of Danville and Susan (Jeffrey) Baer of Oakwood, one sister, Jeanne (Larry) Crippin of Elmhurst, two step-brothers, Bob and Joseph Krakoski, six grandchildren, Jamie, John (Erin), Kathryn, and Benjamin Henkelman and Joey (Ashley) and Samantha Baer, four great-grandchildren, Hayden Henkelman, Jameson and Pierson Baer, and Enzo Lomax and a special niece and nephew, Rachel Clark and David Crippin. She was preceded in death by her parents, step-father Joe Krakoski and her step-sister Maryann Jurek. Harriet was an elementary school teaching assistant for over 30 years, starting her career in Westville at Judith Giacoma Grade School, then taught at Diamond Grade School and retired from Oakwood Grade School. She was a talented pianist and taught piano as well for many years. Harriet attended Batestown Methodist Church. She enjoyed reading, but her greatest joy was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A memorial service will be held for Harriet on Friday, July 31, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. at Sunset Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Danville with Pastor Patti Wise officiating. Memorials may be made in her name to Batestown Methodist Church, American Cancer Society, or Carle Hospice. Please join Harriet's family in sharing memories, photos, and videos of her life on her tribute wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com.