Irene Miletic

Irene Miletic, 88, of Oak Forest, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 26^th at Palos Community Hospital. She is the beloved wife of 72 years and best friend to Vojislav “Voja/Vic” Miletic; Loving mother of Michael (Elizabeth “Joy”) and Peter Miletic; Cherished Omi (grandmother) of Matthew, Amanda, and Noah Miletic; Devoted sister of Anneliese (late Bernhard) Siewert; Fun-loving aunt (tante) Reni to many nieces and nephews. Irene was a lifelong member of the Seventh Day Adventist Church.

Irene was born on January 4, 1934 to Anna Elise and Karl Krienen in Krefeld, Germany. During World War II, her father was enlisted in the armed services and unfortunately never returned home. Irene’s mother’s courage and resilience helped Irene and her sister survive those years of hardship. After the war ended, Irene met Vojislav, who had been stationed in Germany. The two of them spent time together and talked about starting a new life in America. Irene and Voja soon were engaged and then were united in marriage. Shortly after that, they traveled to the United States and settled in the Chicago area near some of Voja’s relatives. Irene’s mother moved in with them and they started a family of their own. Because of the education Irene received in Germany, she was able to become a bookkeeper and worked for a clearing house, a jewelry company, and then a manufacturing company. In later years, Irene trained to become a nurse’s aide. She cheerfully volunteered at a nearby hospital, comforting many patients there.

Irene was also a wonderful homemaker and definitely kept her family well fed! Cooking and baking were two of her passions. The kitchen was her domain and she ruled it while using every culinary gadget available to help her create many delicious meals and outstanding baked delights. She was very creative and would sew clothing for her family and design stunning arrangements of fresh and artificial flowers. Irene also had a green thumb; inside, the home was filled with her many orchids and other houseplants; and outside, there were sculpted bushes among a multitude of flowering plants. The landscape arrangements were so beautiful that they were featured in local garden walks. Vacations were spent either fishing in Wisconsin or skiing in Colorado as certainly many family members will remember fondly. In later years, a pet dog became their travel companion on several of Irene and Vic’s RV trips out West.

Over the past several years, Irene bravely endured the pain from some of her illnesses. She was extraordinarily optimistic and figured out creative ways to care for herself and her husband. Irene was ever hopeful, and never gave up on trying to recover and get well enough to be able to do the things she loved again. Irene’s life was spent caring for her family, always willing to listen and offer her advice.  She would also play the part of peacekeeper when necessary. Irene was the cornerstone of her family and will be greatly missed by them.

In keeping with her wishes, funeral services are private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Irene Miletic, to one of the following:  PAWS Chicago or the Seventh Day Adventist Church. Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guestbook and leave a condolence message at www.midwestmortuary.com  Arrangements entrusted to Midwest Mortuary Service, Mokena. Info. (708) 478-3546