Victoria Laba

If anyone ever cared, really cared for someone else it would have to be Victoria Laba. She was a warm hearted and well liked individual, and these wonderful traits came easily to her because she was such a sociable and amiable person, someone who was always making certain that those around her had whatever they needed. Victoria was a talkative person who was tactful at all times but typically said what she meant.

      Victoria was born on at home in Chicago, Illinois. She was the daughter of Sophie and Peter Potempa. Victoria was raised in Chicago, Illinois. During her childhood she learned to be reliable and respectful. Victoria was an obedient child who wanted to win the favor of others. She found it easy to show sympathy and to perform kind acts for others. These admirable qualities would become a part of Victoria's personality throughout her life.

      Though Victoria was frequently the one to initiate games and activities with her family, she was also quite often the family member who took the role of referee. Victoria was a peace-maker with an ability to resolve all sorts of family conflicts. In fact, Victoria worked conscientiously to keep those typical family spats at bay. Victoria was raised with eleven siblings. She had Mary, Anna, Edward, Frank, Stella, Joseph, Jean, Casimir, Dorothy, Walter and Helen. Victoria and her siblings had the typical rivalries while growing up, but they cared deeply for one another.

      As someone who reveled in the sheer joy of her experiences, Victoria was always enthusiastic about new adventures. Although she had an exacting nature, Victoria was always tactful. One thing Victoria will certainly be remembered for is that, when she got up in the mornings, she was ready and raring to go. As a young girl, Victoria had a number of interests and was an active child.

      Victoria was a faithful and loving person. Some would even call her sentimental and a romantic at heart. Her kindness and consideration radiated an aura of warmth to those around her. Victoria cared for what others thought and carried that into her marriage. Compassionate and devoted, Victoria worked hard to make her new life partner happy.

      Harmony was important to Victoria and she made every effort to maintain it with her family. Victoria was blessed with two children, two sons, John and Victor Kasput. They were also blessed with eight grandchildren, Debbie, Diane, Vicki, Tom, Georgianne, Victor Jr., Christine and Matthew. Victoria was always conscious of the feelings others had. She was reasonable and understanding. As a result, Victoria was quick to solve disputes and did so without much fuss. Her secret of success in this area was simple: Victoria would listen before she would act.

      Taking her work seriously came naturally to Victoria, and she expected the same from those around her. Victoria was a good team player, someone who was born to cooperate with others. She was what some would call a "people person" and it was demonstrated in her good communication skills. Victoria was a steady worker, one who was realistic about schedules. The kind of details that would give family members and work colleagues fits were situations that Victoria handled well. She could understand the details without getting lost in the broad "big picture." Her primary occupation was factory worker. She was employed for Central Die. She brought harmony to her work environment, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done, while always maintaining respect for her colleagues.

      A methodical woman, Victoria enjoyed spending time working on her various hobbies. She had no problem following all of the steps and instructions on a given project and was proud of the fact that she could have something to show for her efforts. Her favorite pursuits were loving to crochet and cook.

      Victoria was one of those people who took pride in constantly putting forth her best effort. Nowhere was that more visible than in sports. Victoria was always enthusiastic and a great team player. Victoria also liked being a sports fan and enjoyed following her favorite teams whenever she got the opportunity. Tops on her list were baseball and football.

     Her high moral standards and traditional values served Victoria well with her faith. Religion and faith were important to her. She was a member of St. Symphorosa for 54 years. She was well respected because she was such an outgoing individual who sought to help in any manner she could.

      Not only did Victoria enjoy traveling, but she also seemed to enjoy planning all of those trips and vacations. She was a facilitator who could easily make up a near perfect schedule of all of the things to do and see. She rarely tired of going back and revisiting her favorite places. Favorite vacations included trips to Miami Beach.

      Since it was easy for Victoria to meet and get to know new people, she quickly made friends, even in retirement. Once she met those new friends, she loved sharing stories and talking about the good old days. Since she was practical and cost effective, Victoria was ready when that day to retire finally came in 1979. In retirement, she found new pleasure in spending time with her great-grandchildren. Even in retirement, Victoria stayed in touch with her old friends and made plenty of new acquaintances. She was active in the community and felt fulfilled with the opportunities that retirement offered her.

      Victoria passed away on December 18, 2009 at at home in Chicago, Illinois. Victoria died from natural causes. She is survived by her loving family Services were held at St. Symphorosa Church. Victoria was laid to rest at Resurrection Mausoleum in Justice, Illinois.

      Victoria was a fantastic conversationalist who could engage just about anyone in a discussion. And whenever she said something, she meant it. Victoria was a down to earth person, outgoing and gregarious. She was without question the type of person who enjoyed experiencing things first hand. She was practical and sensible, but what friends and family will remember her for most is the fact that she was so understanding and kind. Everyone whose life she touched will miss Victoria Laba.