On Monday, April 13, 2026, Gina A. Talaga (Boncouri) of DeKalb, IL passed away peacefully, holding the hands of her children beside her. 

She was born August 6, 1966 to David and Carol Boncouri.  Gina was 59 years old, the eldest child, with siblings Nick, Vincent, and Angela. 

She spent much of her life in the DeKalb and Sycamore area. Gina was a mother to Tara Moser, Alexandra Ferriera, Troy Talaga, Taylor Talaga, and Michael Talaga.  She was also a grandmother to 16 grandchildren. 

 Gina was an avid lover of every celebration especially birthdays, Christmas, and Easter. She loved all Chicago sports teams, golf, and music in every genre. If it had a rhythm, she would move to it. Her laugh could be heard across any room, and often was. She had an impeccable ability to make every scent she wore infinitely better just by wearing it herself. You always knew when Gina walked into a room- the “hey honey,” the smile, the laugh, and the scent. She was amazing at making everyone feel included. It was her “Spunk” that brought everyone together.  Some of Gina’s most cherished memories were those she made while traveling the West, in various parts of Arizona, California, and Oregon. 

While living with her husband, Tim Talaga, on the 101 in Gold Beach, Oregon, she often spoke about the redwoods, the seals, and the powerful beauty of the ocean. Even still, Gina maintained that Sedona, Arizona was the most beautiful place she ever visited, encouraging her children to make it a point of getting there someday. 

Gina was a hardworking, dedicated mother! She faced many challenges in her life with great strength and determination! She was full of LOVE, compassion, energy and fun by all who knew her. Gina’s love for life was palpable, in spite of many hard-fought battles along the way.

She was described as a force of energy and fun by all who knew her. With the gift of gab, and personality plus, she made careers out of the service industry, event planning, and management. Over the course of her life, she maintained many friendships with longevity. Most notably, a staple for 55 of her 59 years, she called “Jules” Julie Scott, the greatest friend of her lifetime; a sister; her bestie soul mate. Of course, the feeling was mutual. 

She leaves behind many family members and friends who won’t go a single day without missing the woman they all knew her to be. In her last days, she made sure to extend her love to her children, stating, “I love you, and I just need you to know that.” This is a piece of her story her children get to hold onto for the remainder of their own lives. 

Gina was preceded in death by both of her parents; her brother, Vincent; and her grandchildren, Lincoln and Mattea.

She will be missed deeply. 

A private celebration of life is planned and invitations will be sent. 

In lieu of flowers and donations, please cherish your time with all your loved ones.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.