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Ann Valek Obituary
Ann M (Hertko) Valek, age 96, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2015, while in Hospice Care at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet.
Born and raised in Joliet, Ann attended S.S. Cyril & Methodius Catholic School and Joliet Township High School, from where she graduated in 1936.
She was married in 1940 to Peter "Patsy" Valek with whom she raised four sons. They took great pride in their sons, their sons' wives and their extended families and happily and regularly welcomed them and their friends into their home, during Peter's life and after his passing in 1982.
Ann was a steadfast parishioner of the S.S. Cyril & Methodius Parish, participating in various clubs and activities there.
She was very devoted to her family, friends and faith. Very socially oriented, she enjoyed the company of people in person or on the telephone. She touched many people through her outgoing and caring personality. Ann had an amazing memory for people and events. She never forgot a friend or a birthday. Well into her 90's, she could relay stories and remember generations of family members.
She was very generous and giving, whether providing a meal, advice or companionship. Even at her advanced age, she stayed energetic and independent nearly to the end of her life.
Ann is preceded in death by her husband, Peter; her parents, Julius and Magdalena Hertko; five brothers, Julius, Martin, Joseph, John and Aloysius Hertko; and two sisters, Elizabeth ( LiFonti) and MaryAnn.
She is survived by four sons and their spouses, Peter (Judy), Bernard (Elba), Paul (Elizabeth) and Raymond (Jeanette); eight grandchildren, Peter, Matthew, Eve (Garcia), Emily, Megan (Kitterman), Anicka, Genevieve and Rebecca; and one step-grandchild. Numerous great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ann's name to Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, St. Patrick's Church or the Joliet Area Community Hospice will be appreciated.
A celebration of Ann's life will begin on Monday, July 6, 2015 with prayers at the Funeral Home Chapel at 9:15 am. Then driving in procession to S.S. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery Chapel for a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial. Interment to follow at S.S. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday July 5, 2015, at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL., from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Pisut Funeral Services in charge of arrangements. For information, phone 815-722-0998
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
5 Entries
Kitty Vancina
July 9, 2015
I don't get the Herald News anymore and just happened upon this obituary while looking for someone else. I felt sick that I missed the funeral. I thought of Ann often but life gets in the way when it comes to checking on people. Shame on us. Ann was one of my mom's very dearest friends. The last time I saw Ann, the three of us spent a couple days away at a resort area. We had such a wonderful time. She will always be in my heart and I know she is now in heaven chatting with my mom. What a good time they must be having!
Kitty (Swierz) Vancina
Thomas Narducci
July 8, 2015
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother. She was such a proud parishioner of St. Cyril's and always so nice to everyone. We will keep her in our prayers. May she rest in peace. The Narducci Family
July 5, 2015
I worked at Zayre with Ann when I was 15 years old. Our friends Mary and Alma would get together and kept in touch for many years. She has taught me so much just from her personal life experiences. She was so good to me as a teenager. I also remember her getting so excited because her son Peter was going to take her to see her favorite Paul Anka. I have thought about her often during my life time. I tried searching her several times and could not find her. I pray for you all. I know she loved her family and was so very proud of all her children. May God comfort you all during this difficult time. I love you Ann Valek... Sonia
Glenn and Judy Steed
July 5, 2015
Dear Valek Family,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you as you bid a fond farewell to your beloved mom. May pleasant memories give you solace - and grant you lasting peace - as you adjust to her absence in your lives.
Sincerely, Glenn and Judy Steed
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shirl riccetti
July 4, 2015
Ann has always been part of my growing up. She welcomed all to her kitchen or dining room table. She was part of the old neighborhood family, caring for everyone. Ann will be
truly missed by my entire family.
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