Tillie Lapka Obituary

I was the Lapkas' Daily News Papergirl Back in the Seventies. She was the nicest customer on my route. I have often thought of her over the years. Every Christmas she gave me a hat, scarf, and mittens. I seldom bundled up for the cold weather. When you came to her house She was always jovial and really enjoyed her paper. Several months ago I was back in the old neighborhood and I wanted to stop by; I wish I had. She touched everyone around her with her very genuine kindness. And I know she would have loved to see my grandchildren.

Tillie was always so sweet and cheerful. I will never forget her it was Christmas Eve 2007; business was real slow I had no customers all day. I had said a prayer and asked god to send me a customer, not 5 minutes later Tillie came in to the store her usual cheerful self, “hi love" and bought her self a new dinning room set she was so happy. She will always be missed. Our prayers will be with you.

To The Lapka family,
Let me first begin by saying how sorry I am for the loss of your Mom.

I have thought of your mom often over the years. I have told this story so many times I long ago lost count of the number.

I became a salesman and traveled all over the country and southern Canada and whenever another salesman was with me and I was driving if a car sped past us I would yell "Damn Speed Jockey!!!".

The salesman that was with me would always ask where I came up with that expression. I would then tell the story that when I was a little kid in grade school and stayed overnight at my friend Tom Lapkas' house and his mom drove us somewhere and she usually drove below the speedlimit other cars would pass us and sometimes honk the horn, Mrs. Lapka would always yell "Damn Speed Jockey!" I laughed so hard then and still do whenever I think of her and I guess I have probably yelled that expression over a thousand times, but whenever I do I fondly remember your mom and what fun she was Tom.

Jim Delaney

Tom, Mike and Betsy

So sorry to hear about your Mother. To this day I still remember and tell the story of the "Blizzard" and how we escaped from Rich Central and ended up at your house for what seemed like days and what great fun we had during that time. But, what I remember most of all was no matter how many kids came to the house your Mom was glad we were all there and made sure we all had something to eat. Great memories and what a "Great Mom"

I would like to express my sympathy to the Lapka family. Tillie was the kind of person who touched other peoples lives, no matter how briefly and made a difference. Tillie did a short stint at the Olympia Fields Post Office, where I worked for 13 years, and I remember her being such a happy person and such a joy to be around. She was a person who came into my life for a short time thru the workplace, but I will always remember her smiling face. If more people were like Tillie, the world would be a happier place.

Aunt Tillie,
I know that Grandma and Grandpa were there welcoming you and I bet you kissed them with the most beautiful red lipstick and looked about 21 years old. I miss you all, You are all my and my daughters guardian angels, . Love Cassie

I miss you dearly Grammy but I'm thankful for the time we did have together. Love, Your Lovebug Rosebud