Vlasta M. "Vicki" Garbo

Vlasta (Vicki) M. Garbo (Nee Kohut), 95, of Greenville SC, died unexpectedly on September 23, 2025 at Bon Secours - St. Francis Hospital in Greenville.

Vicki was born in July 5, 1930 in a farmhouse in Milano Texas, the eldest of three and the only daughter of Henry and Lydia Kohut. Growing up in rural Texas as a teenager, she was a substitute teacher at the one-room schoolhouse she attended and graduated from high school at 16. She moved to Chicago, got her nursing certification, and later became a stewardess for United Airlines. She was stationed in San Francisco and traveled the world. She met Salvatore (Paul) Garbo in 1954 on a blind date and the two were married on June 28, 1958.  Not wanting to raise a young family in the Chicago suburbs, the Garbos moved to a farm in Newark, IL in 1968. Many lifelong friendships were formed during the years in Newark. The couple retired in Florida to enjoy their golden years.

Vicki is survived by her children Paula (Gregg) Gunning of Neponset, IL, Michael Garbo of Fountain Inn, SC, and Maria (Chris) Mulvoy of Monterey, CA.  She is also survived by her granddaughters Dr. Melissa (Michael) Garbo, and Elizabeth and Kathryn Gunning, and her step-grandson Eric Freise.  

A private service will be held at Rux Funeral Home on Saturday, October 4, following with burial at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Kewanee, IL. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be directed to the Shriners Hospitals for Children www.lovetotherescue.org. Rux Funeral Home, 507 S. Chestnut Street, Kewanee IL is assisting the family with arrangements.

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