Emily Kopec

Emily Kopec, 100, of Rockford passed away peacefully Sunday, July 16, 2017. Born January 10, 1917, in Chicago, the daughter of George and Josephine (Babiaz) Kiolbasa. Veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army. Emily was possibly the oldest living WAC in the U.S. She was a sergeant by rank and was stationed overseas in Egypt during World War II. One of her functions was to censor the soldiers mail. Married Walter Kopec on May 30, 1949, in Chicago. She lived an active life, raising her family and working part-time in the family business, Kopec Pharmacy. After her husband’s passing, she moved to Belvidere, where she lived for 10 years, then to Independence Village for 13 years, and finally Alpine Fireside for her last three years. She was grateful to God for a long, healthy life and all the blessings he gave her, especially family and friends. Member of St. Bridget Catholic Church. Emily enjoyed gardening, cooking, reading and crocheting. Survivors include her children, Jim (Linda) Kopec of St. Charles, Joni (Joe) Mata of Rockford, Ray (Barb) Kopec of Springfield, John (Lindy) Kopec of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Annette (Ed) Pszeniczka of South Barrington and Tina Kopec of Chicago; grandchildren, Heather Kopec, Robin Kopec, Vince (Julie) Mata, Lisa (Adam) Martin, Paul (Skye) Mata, Stephanie Mata, John Mata, Thomas Mata, Michael (Cara) Kopec, Lauren (Tyler) O’Brien, Caitlyn (Max) Walker, Emily Powers, Kassandra Powers, Kristen Kopec, Rachel Kopec, Stan Pszeniczka, Joey Pszeniczka, Kristy Pszeniczka, Nikki Pszeniczka and Mike Pszeniczka; great-grandchildren, Joey Mata, James Mata, Suzy Mata, Jacob Mata, Lily Mata, Annabelle Kopec, Eloise Kopec, Juliet Kopec, Harper O’Brien and three on the way. Predeceased by her husband; daughter Loni and her husband, Mike Powers; and five brothers. The family wishes to thank the staff at Alpine Fireside Health Center for all their love, affection and professional care.

Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Monday, July 24, in St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Ave., Loves Park, with visitation from 9 a.m. to service time. Burial in Saint Adalbert Catholic Cemetery, Niles, with military rites accorded. Arrangements by Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., Loves Park.