Barbara A. Bychowski

1939 - 2025

Barbara A. Bychowski

In Loving Memory Barbara A. Bychowski (nee Bader), age 85, was called home to God on March 2, 2025, after a life of faith, service, and devotion to family and friends. She lived with quiet grace, offering kindness to all and leaving behind a legacy of love.

Born in Chicago on November 15, 1939, to Elmer and Marion Bader, Barbara grew up in Mount Prospect and graduated from Arlington High School in 1957. She held secretarial and administrative roles for a variety of local businesses and organizations, including Prospect High School, Amour Packaging and Wiedemann Insurance, always bringing dedication and warmth to her work.

A founding parishioner of St. Raymond's, Barbara met her husband, Howard there, and together they raised four children, Michael, Laura, David (Ken), and Karen. She was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, godmother, and friend, always remembering the little details that made people feel cherished.

Her faith guided her, and she was deeply involved in ministries at St. Raymond’s, including Meals on Wheels, CCD, PADS, Women's Club, and Eucharistic Ministry. Even after a stroke left her bedridden, she continued to uplift others with her warmth and encouragement.

Barbara had a love for travel, cherishing visits with family and friends across the U.S. and abroad, including trips to France, Italy, Germany, and Kenya. She embraced adventure, but it was the people she met and the bonds she strengthened that meant the most.

She is survived by her children, Michael, Laura, David, and Karen; her siblings, Rich Bader and Pat Frey; and many dear family members and friends. Her life reflected the words of 1 Corinthians 13:13: "And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love."

A visitation will be held Sunday, March 9, 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Friedrichs Funeral Home, 320 W. Central Rd. (at Northwest Highway), Mt. Prospect, IL 60056.

Visitation Monday, March 10, 10:00 a.m. until time of Funeral Mass 11:00 a.m. at St. Raymond de Penafort Church, Elmhurst Rd. (Rt. 83) and Lincoln St., Mt. Prospect, IL 60056. Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery in Des Plaines.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to To Africa with Love, NFP (www.tawl.org). May she rest in God's eternal peace.

Funeral information, 847-255-7800 or www.friedrichsfh.com.