Irene Zupancic

Irene "Rena" Zupancic (nee Filek), age 90, entered eternal life on Tuesday, August 12, 2014.

Rena is survived by her three sons, Richard of Salt Lake City, Utah, James "Pokey" of Bend, Oregon, Raymond (Marla) of Fallbrook, California; eight grandchildren; and fifteen great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her husband, Joseph "Lefty"; parents, Thomas and Maria (nee Jantolak) Filek; second mother, Ethel Filek (nee Bayer); sisters, Margaret McFedries and Frances Friskics; and brother, Lawrence Filek.

Rena was a caring, generous, energetic mother and member of the community who loved to laugh and always ensured the safety of family and friends. A woman of strong religious belief and moral character, she is a true role model for family and friends. Rena was Woman of the Year of St. Joseph Parish in Rockdale, Membership Chairwoman of the Women's Club (CCW), and a SOAR member. She retired from Joliet Wrought Washer where she worked as an inspector.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to her dear friends Herb Tatroe, Jeanie Pavnica, Dorothy Tomasino, and all of those members of the community who provided care for Rena in these past several years.

A Celebration of Rena's life will begin on Friday, August 15, 2014 with a visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Rd, Joliet, 60435. On Saturday, August 16, 2014, a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rockdale at 10:00 a.m. Inurnment will be held privately at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood. Per Rena's wishes cremation rites will be accorded.