Phyllis Ann Kowalczyk

Phyllis Ann (Denny) Kowalczyk

Born: December 12, 1931 in LaSalle, IL

Died: March 20, 2025 in Peru, IL

Phyllis Ann (Denny) Kowalczyk, age 93 of Peru, IL, passed away peacefully March 20, 2025 at her home surrounded by her loved ones. A memorial service will be held at a later date. A private burial will be in Saint Valentine Cemetery, Spring Valley. Cremation rites have been accorded. Ptak Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Phyllis was born December 12,1931 in LaSalle, IL to the late Edward and Virginia (Znaniecki) Denny. Phyllis was united in marriage to Jerome (Jerry “Skeeta”) Kowalczyk on April 28, 1951 in St. Patrick Church, LaSalle.

Phyllis was employed twenty years as a Respiratory & Physical Therapy Aide at Peoples Hospital (later, Illinois Valley Community Hospital) in Peru. After retiring from the hospital to spend time with her grandchildren, Phyllis returned to the workforce as a caregiver at Home Instead Senior Care in Peru. It was interesting to know she was often older than the clients in her care. She much enjoyed spending time with her clients.

Phyllis was a member of St. Valentine Church in Peru and for many years sang in the St. Mary Church choir also in Peru. Additionally, she belonged to the local women's choral group "The Harmonaires." Phyllis was a hardworking, generous lady with a wonderful sense of humor and everyone who knew her will miss her greatly. She also loved animals and over the years had many pet cats, dogs and a few hamsters.

Phyllis is survived by her two daughters; Cathy (Michael) Wicks of Downers Grove, IL and Patty Kowalczyk of Peru; three grandsons; Corey Kowalczyk of Battle Ground, WA, Brian Wicks of Downers Grove, and Tyler Wicks of Charleston SC; and serval nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her spouse, Jerome; her son Dennis of Bolingbrook, IL; her three brothers Donald, Richard and William Denny; and her parents.

We would especially like to thank our wonderful neighbor and friend, Anne Duffel, who provided great help, support and comfort to our Mom.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in her name may be directed to Illinois Valley Animal Rescue (IVAR) or Illinois Valley Food Pantry (IVFP).