Karen L. Heleniak, 78, of Schaumburg, died peacefully on February 21, 2023, in Barrington.
Karen was born in Chicago on December 1, 1944, to parents Stephen and Veronica (nee Dlugosz) Bator. Karen married her high school sweetheart, Tom Heleniak, on May 22, 1965, after meeting in their neighborhood in Chicago. Her family lovingly referred to her as “Grandma PITA” and the “Polish Newspaper,” two nicknames she warmly embraced. She loved to keep her mind busy and enjoyed bingo, cards, and crossword puzzles. Karen was very extroverted and loved to host parties for holidays and birthdays. Her home had an open door and everyone was welcome. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Karen is survived by her children, Kim (Joe) Dornbos, Tom (Phyllis) Heleniak, and Brian (Tracey) Heleniak, her grandchildren, Jensen (Sam Costa), Nathan, Taylor, Justin, Rowan, and Ethan, her brother, Dan (Sandy) Bator, and many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tom Heleniak.
Visitation for Karen and her husband Tom, will be Saturday, March 18, 2023, from 12 noon to time of prayers and military honors 3:30 p.m. all at DeFiore Funeral Home, 10763 Dundee Road, Huntley.
For further information please call the funeral home at 847-515-8772 or online condolences may be directed to ww.defiorefuneral.com
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I remember how hard it is to lose your mom. No one has known you longer or loved you more She loved you long before you were born. And now, YOU have to be mom, to do all of things for the family that she did. Mom is a tough act to follow, and you will miss her every time you are trying to be her. Bless you!