Frances H. Ziemba

Frances H. Ziemba

1927 – 2025

Frances H. Ziemba, age 98, passed away after a long and full life marked by dedication, kindness, and love. Frances was the Beloved Wife to the late Thomas J. Ziemba; Treasured Daughter of the late Walter and late Julia Sonsiadek (nee Stolarz); Adored Mother of Thomas W. Ziemba (late Wife Denise Ziemba, nee Olson), Sandra J. Edelmaier (nee Ziemba) (Husband Fred Edelmaier), and Margaret A. Wojtowicz Ziemba (Husband Pete Wojtowicz); Beloved sister of the late Eugene Sonsiadek, late Bruno Sonsiadek, late Mike Sonsiadek, late Mary Filipiak (nee Sonsiadek), late Eugenia Cholewa (nee Sonsiadek), and late Eleanor Sonsiadek.

For more than four decades, Frances built a meaningful career at Allis-Chalmers, where her steady work ethic and commitment earned the respect of colleagues and friends. Outside of her professional life, she was equally dedicated to her family, creating a home where support, structure, and warmth were always present.

Frances had a natural gift for caring for others, and she expressed that care in countless everyday ways-through her cooking, her advice, and her quiet acts of generosity. She took pride in keeping a tidy and welcoming home, and she enjoyed sharing her practical wisdom with her children, whether in the kitchen, garden, or any other part of daily life.

Family time was profoundly important to her. Many cherished memories were made during weekend outings, especially trips to the PNA Youth Camp in Yorkville, Illinois where she delighted in preparing picnics, enjoying the outdoors, and celebrating Polish traditions. She loved the lively spirit of Polka music and continued attending dances well into her later years, finding joy in music, movement, and the company of friends who shared her heritage.

Frances created comfort not only through her presence but also through her cooking, which became an anchor of family gatherings. Her dishes were lovingly prepared and often became the centerpiece of holidays and special occasions. These traditions helped shape the family's shared identity and are part of the legacy she leaves behind, and the legacy her family and friends will continue to carry forward.

Frances carried herself with a thoughtful and steady demeanor, and her dependability made her a trusted source of reassurance through life's many transitions. Her kindness extended to everyone she met, and she approached each stage of life with resilience and grace.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in the name of Frances H. Ziemba to one of the following organizations that held special meaning to her and her loved ones:

Wounded Warrior Project – https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/

Tree House Humane Society – https://www.treehouseanimals.org/

Frances will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Arrangements entrusted to Olen Funeral Home of Harvey: 15700 Emerald Ave., Harvey, IL 60426. Visitation will commence Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 11:00 AM at Jesus Shepherd of Souls Parish (formerly St. Andrew the Apostle Church) located at 768 Lincoln Ave., Calumet City, IL 60409. Interment to follow at Holy Cross Cemetery of Calumet City.