Theresa J. Papesh

Theresa J. Papesh, nee Anzelc, passed away on May 10, 2024 at Rock Run Assisted Living.

Born in Rockdale to Anton and Anna (Gersich) Sterle Anzelc, Theresa was the last survivor of 14 children.   She was a lifelong Joliet area resident, educated at Rockdale School and Joliet Township High School. She married the love of her life, Peter “Benny” Papesh, in 1952. They remained together until he passed away in 2021.

Theresa worked at her brother-in-law’s Texaco stations before her marriage, and later at Standard Oil.   She also worked at Wolf’s Tavern for many years. Theresa played an important part in Benny’s accordion “concerts” throughout their marriage. She was a member of Slovenian Union of America and American Legion Post 1080 Auxiliary.

Theresa is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren, along with many friends.

Along with her husband and her parents, Theresa was preceded in death by her brothers Anton (Susan) Anzelc, Joseph (Bernice) Sterle, John Sterle, William (Catherine) Anzelc, John (Mary) Anzelc and Charles (Evelyn) Anzelc, her sisters Mary (Martin) Kambic, Anna (Edwin) Montgomery, Johanna (John) Gorc, Frances (Matthew) Senffner, Matilda (Steve) Tadey, Elizabeth (Francis) Corp (John) Burkhardt, and Catherine (John) Emery, as well as several nieces and nephews. 

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. Joseph Church, Joliet would be appreciated.