Mary Theresa "Therese" Mildice

Mary Theresa "Therese" Mildice (nee Lemak), age 90, of Naperville, IL, formerly of Chicago and Berkeley, IL passed away peacefully, with her loving family by her side, on February 18, 2026, at Tabor Hills Healthcare Center in Naperville, IL. She was born on September 22, 1935, in Chicago to the late John and Mary Lemak (nee Jankiewicz).

Therese is survived by her loving children Roxanne Mildice of Naperville, IL and Robert (Jane) Mildice of Cape Coral, FL, her cherished grandchildren Luke (Lauren) Mildice and Ambre (John) Rowland, dear great grandchildren Natalie and Ada, and beloved sister Rose Ann Nikodem (nee Lemak).

She was preceded in death by her devoted parents John and Mary Lemak (nee Jankiewicz).

Therese grew up in Chicago and Berkeley, IL before moving to Naperville in 1992. She was a graduate of Holy Name High School /Cardinal Mundelein High School in Chicago, IL.

She was an artist and studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and went on to become President of the West Suburban Artist Guild after many years of membership since the 1960's. She earned an associate's degree later in life from the College of DuPage to add to her résumé.

She was employed by Walgreens Distribution center as a bonded pharmaceutical assistant 1972 to 1982 and later was employed by Waste Management's corporate office in Oakbrook, IL.

Therese's faith and church community was important to her. She attended St Nicholas Cathedral in the Ukrainian Village from birth until the 1960's when her parents moved. She attended St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chicago, then later when she moved to Naperville, she attended SS. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Naperville.

Therese will be fondly remembered for her positive viewpoint of life, even when facing challenges of her own. She always supported and encouraged her family by saying "I know in my heart, everything will be alright".

Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 26th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services at 44 S. Mill Street, Naperville IL 60540. All will gather for the Funeral Liturgy on Friday, February 27th at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph the Betrothed Ukrainian Catholic Church 5000 N Cumberland Ave, Chicago, IL 60656. Committal Rites will follow at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery 8851 W Higgins Road Chicago, IL 60656.