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Barbara Witkowski Obituary
WEST PEORIA - Barbara "Barb" A. Witkowski, 58, of West Peoria passed away at 6:18 p.m. Sunday, July 25, 2010, at OSF Saint Francis Medical Center in Peoria.
She was born Feb. 26, 1952, in Peoria, Ill., to Zeke and Shirlee (Oyer) Closen. She married Charles "Chuck" Witkowski on Sept. 27, 1975, in Peoria, Ill.
She was preceded in death by her father and her mother-in-law and father-in-law, Pearl and Charles Witkowski.
Surviving are her husband, Chuck of West Peoria; one daughter, Erica (Corey Litzsey) Witkowski of West Peoria; one brother, Mike Closen of Peoria; two sisters, Debbie (Andre) Bordeaux of Bolingbrook, Ill., and Lori Closen of Riverside, Calif.; several nieces and nephews; and five great-nieces.
Barb worked as an assistant manager at South Side Bank and Trust in Peoria, where she had been for 34 years.
She was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church in Peoria and was a member of the St. Ann's Women's Circle, the Mothers Club and several mixed couples bowling leagues at Landmark Lanes in Peoria.
She was an avid bingo player at the Knights of Columbus, St. Jude Hall on Hill Street, and was known for her giving nature and for helping many of the elderly customers at the bank.
Barb loved spending time with her family and friends and enjoyed writing poetry for them all.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, July 29, 2010, from 4 to 7 p.m., with a prayer service at 3:45 p.m., at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, July 30, 2010, at 11 a.m. at St. Ann's Catholic Church, with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church. Father Terry Cassidy will officiate. Burial will follow the service in St. Joseph Cemetery in West Peoria.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to St. Ann's Catholic Church in Peoria.
Please visit Barbara's life story at www.davison-fulton.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Witkowski
Amy Kellerstrass
August 21, 2010
we are customers of the bank and I just happened yesterday to ask about Barb. So sorry for her loss. Wonderful woman.
Rick & Mary Ann Lowande
August 9, 2010
We were so sorry to hear about Barb. She was a great lady. She always had a smile and hello when we came in the bank. She will be missed. God Bless her Family.
Fran Crusen
August 7, 2010
To Barb's family: I have many good memories of Barb starting in high school,working with her at St Francis Hospial on the surgical floor, going to California and staying with her cousin Dick and Bernice, living down the street from her first apartment. She was always a good worker and a fun loving person. I will keep the good memories in my heart. Bless you all.
Fran Shea Crusen
CAROL PARRY
August 5, 2010
CHUCK,
DON'T KNOW IF YOU REMEMBER OUR FAMILY OR NOT BUT THE SOVANSKI FAMILY WENT TO ST BONIFACE WHEN BOTH YOU AND BARB WERE THERE. OUR FAMILY WOULD LIKE TO EXTEND OUR DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.
VINCE, MARY BETH, JEAN & CAROL SOVANSKI
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Sue Whalen
July 31, 2010
Barb's kindness and consideration of others will be remembered by all whose lives were blessed by knowing her. I was fortunate to know her. My prayers for all her family. Sue Whalen
Sharon & Terry Lochbaum
July 30, 2010
July 30th, 2010
Chuck and Erica,
it all started on Butler Street- many years ago, we tapped danced in my basement and garage- thought we were something Years passed and we end up at SSB together different depts and low and behold the year of 1986 we are partners at WP our friendship bonded as best friends and co-workers we each knew what the other one was thinking- the laughter and tears will never be forgotten- Terry and I will always remember the fun times of playing cards and yes Barb and I did get great melt......The times we went to Amana the 1st Sunday in December going out to eat...and our trip to Chicago for the Jersey Boys and going to White Castle Grill freezing our butts off. memories have been made which will never be forgotten..
Barb will always be our hearts
Shannon & Ernie Baldock
July 30, 2010
Rest In Peace, Barb. You will missed by so many. Chuck and Erica, may your memories of Barb get you through this sad time. Our hearts go out to your entire family. She was such a great lady and we will miss her... God Bless
Love to you all...
Laurie Park Royer
July 30, 2010
Chuck,
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. My memories of you and Barb go way back. May the memories you have of your life with her help you through these difficult days. Love to everyone. DeColores
July 30, 2010
Chuck & Erica,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. South Side Bank will never be the same without Barb's smiling face always there to greet you. She was a wonderful person and will be missed by all that knew her.
Carolyn McCarter West Peoria
Randy Massey
July 30, 2010
Its been 4 days and I'm still lost for words. Chuck and Erica, you're in my heart and prayers.
Bonnie Grierson
July 29, 2010
Chuck and Erica,
Our prayers are with you as you attempt to get through these next weeks and months. She will truly be missed. It's hard to believe that we went as far back as grade school and SBS cheerleaders. I will always remember her great sense of humor and how she always made us laugh.
July 29, 2010
Chuck:
Our sympathies are with you for the loss of your wife. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May God bless all of you with His love and peace.
Kathy and Mike Berry
Angela Kenny
July 29, 2010
My heart goes out to you on the death of your precious wife and Mother. Barb was so special, kind, considerate, and loving. I would always go to her with my banking problems and they would be solved. I loved her dearly, and will miss her very much. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you both.
Angela Kenny and family
Deanna Dunne-Wood
July 29, 2010
To the Witkowski and Closen families:
I have many memories of growing up accross the street from the Closen family. I always thought of Barb as a tom boy. She was on the go and looking for something to do all the time. Sometimes she'd participate in the "shows" Debbie and I put on, but that wasn't really her thing. I saw her last month, for the first time in years and other than us both looking much older, it was as if no time had passed. I can't believe she is gone. I am praying that God will help you cope with your loss and that she is in Heaven watching over us.
SaRita PCT 1700
July 29, 2010
To the family of Barbara: She only came to visit us for a short time but for those who came in contact with her was touched deeply. She was a sunshine very sweet, loving and caring. We on night shift learned a lot from her and we also learned how big her heart really was. She may be gone in human body but she will forever live on through the blessing she left her on earth!!! Smile and thank God that she was a part of each and everyone of our lives May God Bless You All!!
Julie Maroon
July 29, 2010
Chuck and Erica-
I am praying for you! I can remember going to the Bank with my mom when I was little and we would have to go in so I could say hi to Barb and get candy. Even to this day when I went in, I would stop and have a conversation with her, even though I was just turning in my change :D She was a wonderful woman and she will be greatly missed. God loves you and So do I!
Roz Dillon
July 28, 2010
Erica,Chuck,Mike: SouthSithBank West Peoria will never be the same without Barb. If you wanted someone to cheer you up that was Barb, she would put a smile on your face when you needed it most.Barb you will really be missed, but we all know you are in a better place today. Rest in Peace my friend.
Linda & Ben Potter
July 28, 2010
Our prayers are with your family.
Marge Ksycki Maroon
July 28, 2010
To Chuck & Erica, the Closen & Witkowski Family,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you. Whenever I make chex mix I will always think of Barb and how at Christmas when I made my delivery to the bank of cookies and chex mix, she always got her own package. Barb has always been a mainstay to my kids when they came to the bank with their banking troubles. She could always smooth the way for them, even if it was the same thing I just told them. She was an awesome lady who always had a smile on her face and a big hello for everyone. She will be missed. I always knew if I had some time to waste while in the bank, I could just sit at her desk and gossip.
Hang in there and know that I am keeping you both in heart and my prayers.
Marge (or Margie, as Barb always called me)Ksycki Maroon
July 28, 2010
Chuck and Erica ... Words can't make your sorrow any easier but we hope they show how deeply we care.... Rich and Sue Roos (West Peoria IL)
Kathie Pierson
July 28, 2010
As I sit here in disbelief, my mind takes me back to all the wonderful times shared with Barb. I thank God I was able to be a co-worker in the drive thru window for eight years; and enjoy wonderful adventures in bowling! Her sense of humor and wit were beyond compare. Most of all, she was so extremely proud of family. I think of the times I didn't have 4th of July or other Holiday plans and she would just say, "You"re coming over." She had a heart as big as Texas! Also, if anyone needed assistance installing a door or whatever, she would say, "Chuck will do it". Of course, it was done. Erica & Chuck my heart goes out to you and of course you are in my thoughts and prayers.
July 28, 2010
Chuck,
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.
Tammy Ford
July 28, 2010
Barb, many years ago was my student @ St. Boniface School and, frequently, she would joyfully, gleefully come in the classroom and announce all the 'tidbits' she could remember from asking my sister, who was her 'baby'sitter'.
What could I say? I wasn't there and I am certain that my sister emabellished her stories!
May all find courage and peace and trust that she is with the Lord Jesus.
May she continue to care for each from heaven. prayers and blessings Sr. Andrea, osb
Therese Dismang, Heather & Daniel
July 28, 2010
I had the privalege to work with Barb at SS Bank for many years, the last 6 of which she was my Assistant Manager. I was very saddened to hear of her illness & passing. Chuck and Erica, my family indeed understands the grief and hard times ahead. Take strength in the knowledge that she is now with the Lord and is not in pain. My God give you strength and peace in your time of sorrow.
Linda Hughes
July 28, 2010
Chuck:
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Cat retirees -- Linda and David Hughes
July 28, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with your family. I was always impressed the way Barb said hello to everyone that entered the bank and called them by their first name. She did not know a stranger! We need more folks like Barb in our world!! God bless you!
-Monica Jones (Previous Development Director at St. Joseph's Home)
Paul Dimler
July 28, 2010
Chuck, my thoughts are with you and your family at this time of great loss. I know all of the Wednesday Nite Good Guys share my sentiments.
Kathy Wells Moore
July 28, 2010
Even though we were separated by miles, I thought of you often. Thanks for always being so nice to my mom. My deepest sympathy goes to your entire family.
Sincerely, Kathy Wells Moore Fairfield, TX
July 28, 2010
Even though miles separated us, I often thought of you. Thanks so much for always helping my mom. My deepest sympathy go to all of your family.
Sincerely, Kathy Wells Moore Fairfield, TX
Angela Washington
July 28, 2010
Dear Chuck, Erica, and the entire family,
I have had the pleasure of knowing Barb aka Barbie since Erica and I became friends in highschool. I have always been accepted and welcomed into the family by Barb. Barbie will always have a special place in my heart and I am here for anything that you may need. I will always love you Erica. One thing is for certain we may never understand God's plan but we must trust in God. Have the faith to stay strong and take each day minute by minute. Do not forget to lean on us for support. We are here and I will miss her.
Maureen Chittick Hillman
July 28, 2010
My condolences to Barb's family. I went to high school with Barb and looked forward to seeing her at the reunion in September. We will raise a glass to her then.
Ann Peary
July 28, 2010
I worked with Barb 34 years at South Side Bank,a lady of integrity, kind,considerate,sense of humor,loved to laugh, just a very genuine person. Chuck and Erica I am so sorry for your loss. We loved her as well and will miss her greatly.
Jim (J.R) Reynolds
July 28, 2010
Chuck, my thoughts and prayers are lifted up for you and your family. I know and trust the Lord will be with you during this time of loss, challenge.
Corrie Broberg
July 28, 2010
Dear Chuck and Erica,
Barb was a wonderful lady. I will always remember her laughter and the fun times we had when the Pros were here! It just doesn't seem fair right now, but may God give you His peace to know that she is truly at home in His loving care.
All our love
S.Cecile Baer
July 28, 2010
Dear Chuck, Shirlee and family,
I have been praying for Barbara since i had heard the news of her illness. I will always remember her smile and joking. It was a pleasure to know her and the joy when Erika came into your lives Chuck. With a prayer! Sister Cecile
Chris Bozsoki
July 28, 2010
Chuck, Erica, Shirley, Debbie, Lori and Mike, you have my deepest sympathy and will be in my prayers. Barb's laughter and sense of humor over everything always seemed to put things in perspective. I am glad to have been considered a friend thru out her life even though we haven't been in touch for long periods of time. When Mom passed on last year, someone gave me a note that I have kept at my desk daily and helps when I get overwhelmed: "Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again." God Bless.
Erica Witkowski
July 28, 2010
Mom I was so lucky to have you in my life. I thank God everyday for you. I know in my heart you will be watching down on me, but I am really selfish and want you here with me instead. Thank you for everything you did for me, you truly are my sunshine. I will love you forever!
July 28, 2010
Chuck,
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Tony Moreschi
kevin nance
July 28, 2010
I too remember Barb's great sense of humor,laugh,and smile. Barb could tell some good jokes. What nice way to remember a wonderful lady. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Brooke Closen-Potter
July 28, 2010
I will miss Aunt Barb so much. I feel I never got the chance to really tell her how much she meant to me and how special she made me feel on Birthdays, Christmas, and most of all my wedding. She was a mother to me when my own could not be, and for that I will always be grateful. I love you Aunt Barb!
Marci Coric
July 28, 2010
With Deepest Sympathy...
May God's Presence Surround You in your sadness and may you always remember the good times. May family and friends be there for you always. It is not easy, I know, but God is always there for you. Trust Him and His Love for you and His Caring arms around you in this time of sorrow.
Leah Grebner
July 28, 2010
Chuck,
So sorry to hear of your loss. Your family is in my prayers.
Karen Massey
July 28, 2010
Barb will truly be missed by one and all. The memory of her happy smile and constant laughter will remain with me forever. I count myself lucky to have known her and shared many happy times together. Erica and Chuck, you are in my prayers daily and will remain so. Keep up her legacy of laughter and smiles, it is what she would want.
Love you both
Dan & Annie Plaag
July 27, 2010
Our sympathies are with you for the loss of your dear wife, mother, daughter & sister. Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May God bless all of you with His love and peace.
Pam & Bob Sanford
July 26, 2010
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
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