Irene C. Hylek

IRENE C. HYLEK (NEE BERNICKY) FORMERLY OF CALUMET CITY, IL Irene C. (Bernicky) Hylek, age 88, of Manor Court, Peru, and formerly of Calumet City, IL and Old Town, FL, departed this life Wednesday morning, February 23, 2011. She is survived by her daughter, Pamela (Harry) Pappas of Peru; son, Donn (Kathy) Hylek of Cedar Lake; two grandchildren: Nicole (Anthony) Anniballi of Peru, and Nathan (Christin) Pappas of LaSalle; her dearly beloved great grandchildren: Niko and Theadora Anniballi of Peru and Cassius Pappas of LaSalle; three brothers: John Bernicky of CA, Paul Bernicky of WI, and James Bernicky of FL; one sister, Dorothy Hollon of FL; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her husband, Joseph S. Hylek in 2003; four brothers: Peter, Andy, Mickey, and Joseph; and three sisters: Theresa, Mary, and Ann. Mrs. Hylek was born January 26, 1923 in Whiting, IN, the daughter of Joseph and Annie Bernicky. She married Joseph Hylek in 1942 in Indiana. Irene was a past employee of Federated Metals in Whiting. She was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 8141, Calumet City where she served as president of the Ladies Auxiliary. She was also a member of the Golden Ages in Florida. Irene was an avid bowler, enjoyed cards, bingo, knitting, and dear friends. She also shared a great love of animals, providing homes for many dogs and cats. A Funeral Mass will be held Tuesday, March 8, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Patrick's Church in LaSalle with Rev. Adam Stimpson officiating. Cremation rites were accorded. Interment will be beside her husband at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL at a later date. Memorials may be directed to Illinois Valley Animal Rescue, Peru, or the donor's choice. Funeral arrangements are through the Hurst Funeral Home in LaSalle.