Ann M. Valek

Ann M (Hertko) Valek, age 96, passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2015, while in Hospice Care at Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home in Joliet.

Born and raised in Joliet, Ann attended S.S. Cyril & Methodius Catholic School and Joliet Township High School, from where she graduated in 1936.

She was married in 1940 to Peter "Patsy" Valek with whom she raised four sons. They took great pride in their sons, their sons' wives and their extended families and happily and regularly welcomed them and their friends into their home, during Peter's life and after his passing in 1982.

Ann was a steadfast parishioner of the S.S. Cyril & Methodius Parish, participating in various clubs and activities there. She was very devoted to her family, friends and faith. Very socially oriented, she enjoyed the company of people in person or on the telephone. She touched many people through her outgoing and caring personality. Ann had an amazing memory for people and events. She never forgot a friend or a birthday. Well into her 90's, she could relay stories and remember generations of family members.

She was very generous and giving, whether providing a meal, advice or companionship. Even at her advanced age, she stayed energetic and independent nearly to the end of her life.

Ann is preceded in death by her husband, Peter; her parents, Julius and Magdalena Hertko; five brothers, Julius, Martin, Joseph, John and Aloysius Hertko; and two sisters, Elizabeth (LiFonti) and MaryAnn.

She is survived by four sons and their spouses, Peter (Judy), Bernard (Elba), Paul (Elizabeth) and Raymond (Jeanette); eight grandchildren, Peter, Matthew, Eve (Garcia), Emily, Megan (Kitterman), Anicka, Genevieve and Rebecca; and one stepgrandchild. Numerous great-grandchildren, great great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins also survive.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ann's name to Our Lady of Angels Retirement Home, St. Patrick's Church or the Joliet Area Community Hospice will be appreciated.

A celebration of Ann's life will begin on Monday, July 6, 2015 with prayers at the Funeral Home Chapel at 9:15 am., then driving in procession to S.S. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery Chapel for a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial. Interment to follow at S.S. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery. Visitation will be on Sunday July 5, 2015, at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL., from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Pisut Funeral Services in charge of arrangements. For information, phone 815-722-0998.

Sunday, July 05, 2015
3:00 PM - 7:00 PM

Tezak Funeral Home
1211 Plainfield Road
Joliet, Illinois 60435

Monday, July 06, 2015
9:00 AM

Tezak Funeral Home
1211 Plainfield Road
Joliet, Illinois 60435

A celebration of Ann's life will begin on Monday, July 6, 2015 with prayers at the Funeral Home Chapel at 9:15 am., then driving in procession to S.S. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery Chapel for a 10:00 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial.

Monday, July 06, 2015
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Ss. Cyril & Methodius Cemetery Chapel
Rt. 6 & Maple Rd
Joliet, IL 60432

Monday, July 06, 2015
11:00 AM

SS Cyril and Methodius Cemetery
Rt. 6 & Maple Rd
Joliet, IL 60432