Alice E. Chase

BUFFALO - Alice Evelyn Chase, 88, died Sunday, Feb. 17, 2008, at Mary Lou's Abode in Buffalo.

She was born the daughter of W.H.P. and Margaret Elizabeth English Huber on Oct. 22, 1919, in Elgin. She married Brad M. Chase Jr. on Aug. 7, 1942, in Las Vegas; he preceded her in death in August 1993.

Mrs. Chase was a teacher for many years. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in education from Illinois State University and a teaching certificate from Northern Illinois University. Her first teaching position was in a one-room school. She later taught first grade at Lincoln School in Springfield. She was a member of Laurel United Methodist Church and Clara Swain Circle. She volunteered at Kumler Food Pantry.

She is survived by two daughters, Pamela Birckhead of Columbia and Barbara (husband, Michael) Maddin of Springfield; a son-in-law, Edward Trzaskus of Nashville, Tenn.; grandchildren, Scott (wife, Erin) Trzaskus of Lafayette, Ind., Wendy Trzaskus of Atlanta, Jennifer Trzaskus of Virginia Beach, Va., David (wife, Melissa) Birckhead of Mascoutah, Gail Birckhead of Virginia Beach, Timothy Birckhead of Columbia, James (wife, Laura) Maddin of Springfield and Amy Maddin of Phoenix; and great-grandchildren, Chase, Evan and Matthew Trzaskus and Brianna and Benjamin Birckhead.

She was preceded by her parents; husband, Brad Chase; and daughter, Betty Trzaskus.

The family is being served by Bisch Funeral Home West, 2931 S. Koke Mill Road, where the family will meet friends from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2008. The services will be held there as well at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008, with the Rev. Robert McDonald officiating. Burial will follow services in Camp Butler National Cemetery.

The family asks that those who wish may make donations to Laurel United Methodist Church.

Please visit the online celebration of life at www.mem.com.