Kelly Anastasia Creech
It is with deep sadness that the family of Kelly Anastasia Creech, 37, announces her death on Saturday, March 29, 2025. Kelly passed away peacefully at her home in Lakeview (Chicago), Illinois, where she was showered with love from her husband, family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer.
Kelly was born in 1987 in Grosse Pointe, Mi., to Michael Creech and Susan Schmitt-Creech. There, she enjoyed dance, watersports, and girl scouts. At 15 she moved with her family to Ann Arbor where she completed High School and expanded her list of life-long friends.
In 2009, she moved to Chicago where she built many new friendships and a reputation as an amazing bar tender. This is where she met the love of her life, John Ryan Kracaw (Ryan). The two shared a bond most will never experience. Kelly completed her bachelor’s degree in marketing from Depaul University and the two married shortly after. As she began her Marketing career, she held various positions including Brand Development Manager and Marketing Manager in the beverage industry. However, she obtained her dream job in 2024 as Creative Marketing Manager for One Off Hospitality where her skills in photography, graphic design, content creation and artistic talent were showcased.
Kelly’s life was filled with making beautiful things. She was more than creative, she was insightful. Kelly experimented with photography and, with time, mastered this artform. She would later use this skill in the career she loved. Along the way, she developed stunning artwork in other mediums like epoxy and alcohol ink. This was her outlet that eventually grew into her side business, Anastasia Designs. Her artwork will remain as beautiful reminders of an amazing woman.
Strong yet kind, fiercely independent yet caring, Kelly always seemed to hold every situation with quiet command. Starting negotiations and resolving conflict with the “be nice” approach was one of her superpowers. Her kindness and generosity were constant and unparalleled. Kelly always had a seat at the bar, table or balcony for you, never with an empty glass or plate. She lovingly filled it with your favorite beverage or treat. She built an incredible community within her circle.
Kelly enjoyed live music, deep conversations, sunny days on the boat, weekends at the Creech cottage, good movies and quality time with her husband, friends and family - always with her Frenchie (French Bulldog) by her side.
Kelly is survived by her husband, John Ryan Kracaw (Ryan), her parents Michael Creech and Susan Schmitt-Creech, and brothers James Creech and Andrew Creech.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to the American Cancer Society.