Jeannette Sypien

Jeannette (Jeanne) Sypien, 88, passed away peacefully on November 26, 2025, with her niece, Rita, by her side. Born on January 28, 1937, in Phoenix, Illinois, she grew up in Dixmoor and later moved to Lansing before settling in Tinley Park, where she spent her retirement years.

Jeanne built many lasting friendships during her lifelong career at Illinois Bell. Among them was her dear friend Carol, whose shared daily check ins remained a comfort to Jeanne in later years.

Her home was a cherished gathering place for holidays-especially Christmas. Jeanne lovingly prepared traditional Polish dishes and baked an assortment of Christmas cookies for family and friends with her mom and sister often by her side. Her warmth, hospitality, and the care she put into every celebration created memories that will be deeply missed.

An avid photographer, Jeanne dedicated herself to capturing moments of family life, parish events, and local music performances. The many photos she leaves behind now serve as treasured reminders of the joy and connection she helped create.

Following her retirement, Jeanne traveled with her sister Lorrie and niece Rita on several pilgrimages organized by Saint Julie Billiart Catholic Church. Their journeys included visits to seven European countries, beginning with a meaningful trip to Poland in honor of Jeanne's heritage. These experiences brought the family lasting memories and deepened their shared faith.

Always a compassionate and caring person, she took care of her mother and brother Rich prior to their passing. As Jeanne's health declined, she was lovingly supported by her step-sister, Sharon and step-brother, Frank. With quiet dedication, they assisted Jeanne in countless ways - managing home repairs, coordinating medical appointments, and guiding her through new tasks and daily needs. Jeanne was also grateful for the help of neighbors Rosemary and Warren, and Frank and Barbara. Parish members Ted and Donna were incredibly important and generously provided rides to Mass when she was able to attend and made regular wellness checks. We called them her angels. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the volunteer drivers of the American Cancer Society who ensured Jeanne arrived safely to her treatments when family could not be present.

Jeannette was the beloved sister of Loretta (late Ronald) Hamilton, the late Adolph (Shirley) Sypien, and the late Richard Sypien; the caring step sister of Frank Zurek (Larry) and Sharon Zurek. She was the loving daughter of the late Ann Zurek and step daughter of the late Frank Zurek. Jeanne was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews, including Rita Hamilton Cameron (Jock), Ronald Hamilton (late Cora), the late Greg Hamilton (Mary), Paul Hamilton, Kellie Sypien Dibble (Mark), Christy Meyer(Jeffrey), Kerri Sypien Bielewicz (George), and Theresa Sypien, as well as many great nieces and great nephews all of whom Jeanne loved and cared for greatly.

Visitation will be held at Saint Julie Billiart Catholic Church, 7399 159th St., Tinley Park, IL, on December 3, 2025, from 9:30-10:30 a.m., followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Interment will take place immediately afterward at Holy Cross Cemetery in Calumet City, Illinois. Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Vandenberg Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jeannette's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society.