Bernice "Bea" E. Marszalek

Bernice “Bea” E. Marszalek, aged 96, completed her life journey while surrounded by her loving family in her final moments on May 26, 2024. She began her journey born to Felix Kownacki and Josephine Kownacki (nee Wisniewski) in Tamaroa, IL on February 21, 1928.

Bea was raised in Tamaroa, IL and proudly served as the organist for Immaculate Conception Catholic Church during her high school years. She later moved to the big city of Chicago, IL and married John Marszalek. The two shared many years of wedded bliss before Johns’ passing in 1985. Bea was the consummate homemaker as well as working as a Bank Teller for the Crawford Savings Bank.  One of her most indelible memories occurred when the first fatal airplane accident involving a Boeing 737 in the U.S. took place on her street shortly after takeoff from Midway Airport. Her family lovingly referred to her only as “Auntie Bea” and she loved to collect unique spoons and angel figurines. She worked tirelessly in her little garden, taking great pride in sharing her many vegetables with friends and family. Of course, we would be remiss not to mention her two beloved poodles – Georgette and Babette. In recent years, Auntie Bea spent her time enjoying retirement in Crest Hill with her community of lady friends and regular visits from her family.

Bea was preceded in death by her parents, her husband John, and her siblings Edward, Anna Marie, Dorothy, Robert, and Ray.

She is survived by her sisters Caroline and Helen, as well as many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church, 1711 Burry Circle, Crest Hill, IL. Interment will take place at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 7201 S. Archer Ave., Justice, IL at 12:15 p.m.