Barbara J. Filas

Barbara J. Filas, nee Sitkowski, Age 82, passed away on June 27, 2025.
Barb was born and raised in Chicago her whole life. She was a dedicated Chicago fan and especially loved her Chicago Bears (even during the rough seasons). She worked in the office of the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) for many years before she retired to enjoy swimming in the pool and traveling to sporting events for her grandchildren.
Loving mother of Gianna (William) Hodo, Nadine Filas (the late John Travis), and the late Randolph John Filas. Adoring grandmother to Samuel Travis (Becca), Irene Travis (Brady), and Tyler Renee Filas (Austin). Great grandmother of Ryder Geames. Cherished sister of Rose (Sis) Smith and the late Joseph (Audrey), the late Ray (the late Michaline), the late Leonard (Sandy), and the late Stanley Sitkowski. Dearest sister-in-law of Beverly Garcia. Loving aunt and great aunt to many nieces and nephews. Everlasting friend to all she knew.
Barb was the queen of holiday traditions, from blessing Easter baskets on Holy Saturday, oplatki and fish on Christmas Eve, to herring and dollar bills for everyone on New Year's Eve. For holidays, Barb did the cooking and baking, or always told someone how to prepare things the "right way". If you ever received a birthday card from Barb, you were hesitant to open it because she always included a confetti surprise.
Those who knew Barb, knew she always kept it real. She spoke her mind and told you how it was, even when it was difficult to hear. She showered those close to her with love, always checking in no matter the distance between them.
She loved her children more than anything and was there for them no matter what stage of life. She enjoyed watching her grandchildren play sports, traveling to various sporting events, and always rooting from afar as their biggest supporter as they went off to college.
Barbie was the heart and soul of the family. We simply would not be here today if it were not for her and all she endured. Her smile, relentlessness, and light will carry on through us because of her unconditional love.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Association of Horizon (www.associationofhorizon.org) or an organization of your choice.
Visitation, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, 4:00PM to 8:00PM at Damar-Kaminski Funeral Home & Crematorium, 7861 S. 88th Avenue, Justice, Illinois.
Funeral, Thursday, July 3, 2025, 9:00AM Prayers and Procession to begin from the funeral home to Saint Daniel the Prophet Church, 5358 S. Nashville Avenue, Chicago, Illinois for 10:00AM Mass.
Interment, Resurrection Cemetery, Justice, Illinois.