Szyjakowski, Florence

Born into Eternal Life on February 7, 2018, age 90 years. Florence was preceded in death by her loving husband the late Frank Szyjakowski. Beloved mother of Jim (Judy), Joe (Gail), Marsha, Sam and Mike Szyjakowski. Proud grandmother of Jason, Kelly, Ryan, Aaron, BJ and Nick. Great-grandmother to Keaton, Kameron, Macy and Zachary. Dear sister of Richard (Joan) Korek and the late Raymond (Betty) and Helen (Larry) Tarantino. Also survived by cherished nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Florence was born on January 5, 1928, to Rose and Valentine Korek. She grew up in the Riverwest neighborhood of Milwaukee and attended both St. Casimir and Riverside High School. She met her future husband, Frank, in Riverwest as well. They married in 1949 shortly after his discharge from the Navy.

Florence worked as a switchboard operator for the Wisconsin Telephone Company in the late 1940’s and later as a typist for Jewish Family Services where she retired after more than 20 years of service. She was a devoted and loving mother and grandmother. Florence loved visiting with her grandkids which always put a smile on her face. She also enjoyed cooking, reading, various arts and crafts, playing cards with her family and friends, laughing and playing the slot machines at casinos across Wisconsin and beyond.

Florence and Frank were committed to their extended family as well and were always quick to lend a helping hand to anyone. Florence continued this tradition of caring after Frank’s passing in 1997. She will be missed deeply by her family as she was the touchstone for years that brought us all together. Rest in peace Mom.

The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday, February 15, 2018, at Schramka Funeral Home, 13220 West Capitol Drive, Brookfield, WI 53005. Visitation and a light buffet will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, followed by a prayer service and further celebration of her life. A private burial will be held the following day, Friday, February 16, at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Union Grove, WI.

Florence’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks and gratitude to the staff of Lutheran Home. The comfort and care they provided to our mother, and us, during her transition there was truly remarkable. Kind, compassionate and thoughtful. Like family. We would also like to express our appreciation to the two kind and caring hospice nurses from Vitas Hospice who spent the final hours with mom insuring her comfort. Our thanks also goes out to the Milwaukee VA Center and Elmbrook Hospital.

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