Helen M. Hnetynka

Helen Marie Hnetynka (nee Wolniewicz) of Cicero, IL, age 90, at rest December 13th. The last of the "Babushkas", as the sisters called themselves. Born Sept 3, 1932 in Chicago. Beloved wife and best friend of Henry "Hank" Hnetynka for over 57 years. Graduate of St. Sebastian's HS. She was a "Riverview Gal" who found love with a "Back of the Yards" guy in 1965. Avid pinochle player. Her open, giving heart, and joyful ways helped so many who were lucky to know her. Active in her parish and at the Cicero Senior Center, she and Hank also travelled across the USA and internationally. Helen's years as "Paprika" the clown were especially satisfying to her and to her audiences of children and adults alike. Preceded in death by her parents, Helen Kowalski and Simon Wolniewicz, as well as her six siblings: John; Veronica Stachowiak; Rita Bannach; James "Ski"; Richard "Wally", and Diane. Dear Aunt and Great-aunt of dozens all around the country and special loving Aunt of Robert McPhee. Cherished cousin of Suzanne Kraus. Donations appreciated to the DAV, which she supported in honor of her three brothers' military service (www.dav.org). Visitation Friday, Dec. 16th 3 to 8 p.m. at the Sourek Funeral Home, 5645 W. 35th St., Cicero, IL 60804. Funeral Services from Sourek Saturday, December 17th at 10:15 a.m. to Mass at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Charity, 3620 S. 57th Ct, Cicero, IL 60804. Interment at Bronswood Cemetery, Oak Brook, IL. For more information call Sourek Funeral Home, 708-652-6661.