Geri "Cookie" Dacko

Geraldine (Cookie Brankin) Dacko passed away peacefully at home in Palos Heights with her husband and her daughter by her side on December 6, 2025 at the age of 94.

Geri was the beloved wife of Paul J. Dacko for 24 years. Amazing mother of Cindy (Richard) Kmetty and the late Barbara (Robert) McCann. Cherished Nana of Daniel (Emily) Townsend, Kelly (Anthony) Kmetty-Paramo, and Colleen McCann and loving Gigi of Hailey, Avery and Delila. Dear step-mother of Marie (Daniel) Loiacono and Paul M. Dacko and step-grandmother to Brian (Annika), Gina, Ethan, Jacob and Lily. Darling sister of Ronald (Marge) Brankin and preceded in death by Richard (late Marilyn) Brankin and her twin brother Gerald Brankin. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews.

She was born on December 5, 1931 to the late Patrick and Frances Brankin in Chicago, Illinois. She was raised in the Canaryville neighborhood with her three brothers. She was given her nickname Cookie by her father because she was as tiny as a cookie crumb, and she never outgrew it.

Geri’s daughters felt her unconditional love through her words and actions as a mom. She created a beautiful home for her family. She was an active grandparent and great-grandparent, helping support and foster each generation through her love.

Geri appreciated good entertainment, from dramatic TV shows to live music, and you would always find her on the dance floor. She enjoyed vacations with her husband and girl’s trips with her best friend and cousin Lois Brankin Young. Geri had a great sense of style. She knew how to live big in her petite frame.

Geri had unwavering faith in God as a devout Catholic. She spread God’s light to all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her love, compassion and spunk. Although Geri will be missed greatly, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us. May her memory be a blessing and may we carry forth her legacy of genuine love and compassion in all we do.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 13, 2025 from 9:00am to 11:00am at Colonial Chapel 15525 S. 73rd Ave. (155th/Wheeler Dr & Harlem) Orland Park, IL. The Funeral Mass will be at 11:30am at St. Alexander Church, 7025 W. 126th St., Palos Heights, IL. Internment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Alsip, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the Colleen F. McCann SNT (Special Needs Trust). If mailing, send to Cindy Kmetty, C/O Colleen F. McCann SNT, 7942 W. Golf Drive, Palos Heights, IL 60463.

Geri loved Christmas. If sending a floral arrangement, please share in her Christmas spirit with holiday colors.

Express your thoughts and condolences at colonialchapel.com.