LuAnn Samardzija

LuAnn Samardzija 71, of DeKalb passed away Monday, December 1, 2025, at Aperion Care in DeKalb. She was born December 30, 1953, in Rochelle, IL and was the daughter of Robert and Marilyn (Krahenbuhl) Harleman.

LuAnn graduated from Malta High School in 1972 and went on to earn her associate's degree in horticulture from Kishwaukee College.

LuAnn married Nicholas Samardzija, on July 10, 1982, in DeKalb. Their life together was filled with devotion and partnership until his passing on June 24, 2007.

For more than 30 years, LuAnn shared her creativity and warmth as a florist at Kar-Fre Flowers in Sycamore, brightening countless lives with her beautiful work. She later continued her passion for plants and people at the Lowe's Garden Center for 14 years, where she was known for her kindness, knowledge, and smile.

Survivors include; her mother Marilyn Barnes, daughter Sarah (Brennan) Loptien of Genoa, son Eli (Lindsey) Samardzija of Kirkland. Grandchildren; Stella Loptien, Ayden, Olivia, Caleb and Hannah Samardzija. Sister Mary (Todd) Olson of Sycamore. She was preceded in death by her father, husband Nicholas and stepfather Emmett Barnes.

Memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 10:00am at Finch Funeral Home in DeKalb. Memorials can be made to Michael J. Fox Foundation . Arrangements were entrusted to Finch Funeral Home 310 Oak St. DeKalb, IL 60115 815-758-3841.