Regina Jeannie Harezlak

Regina "Jeannie" Harezlak of Rockford passed away February 1, 2015 in Presence St. Anne's Center. She was born September 4, 1916 in Pittsburgh to Apolonia (Duralski) and Frank Matuszewski. Jeannie lived most her life in Rockford, marrying Charles "Colonel" Harezlak in 1936. They were married for 54 years until his death in 1990. She was employed and retired after 30 plus years.

Jennie was the matriarch of our family. She exemplified the true meaning of unconditional love as a wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt and friend. Survivors include her son John (Ginger), grandsons Dave (Michele), Chuck, John (Theresa) and great-grandsons, Gabe, Zeke, f Jack ad Joey.
Jeannie attended countless events of "her boys". She was their most loyal fan and cheerleader, Always proud and praising their abilities! Jeannie was an avid Pittsburgh Steeler and Pirates fan and watched sports on TV daily.

Regina was "Gramma" to extended family Geri (Dave) Bruce, Lori Bruce (fiancé' Matt Trosper), Kari (Josh) Wood, 2 mo old, Ryan Wood. She was surrogate mom/gramma to many others. She cherished relationships w/numerous and VERY SPECIAL nieces and nephews who called her "Nini" and Ciocia; also a special friend to many. Her family gave her as much joy and happiness as she gave to them. They brought smiles to her face up to the final days of her life. She taught and practiced family, heritage and traditions in hopes they would continue and be passed to the generations that followed. She was a great cook and baker; sharing recipes and an undetermined numbers of pies, cookies, breads, babka, soups and pastries enjoyed by all. Her house was cheerfully decorated for every holiday and family gatherings and "everyone" was invited, but never made to feel guilty if circumstances didn't allow. She said, with genuine understanding, "I'll see ya when I see ya".

Jeannie was an inspiring example to her family. Consistently loving, caring, forgiving, independent, positive and strong in mind and soul. She beat breast cancer; surviving for over 35 years. She was a member of St. Stanislaus church for approx. 89 yrs. where she attended daily mass, was a lector, cleaned the church altar, was a choir member and volunteer. Jeannie was named St. Stanislaus (1st) "Woman of the Year" in 1993 and was an original committee member of the Polish Fest and Woman's League. Jeannie traveled to her favorite places: Rome (The Vatican), The Holy Lands, Poland, Mexico, Hawaii. She experienced fun trips to Las Vegas w/dear friends Catherine and Polly to visit their special friend Lottie and her daughters. Jeannie was the last survivor of the neighborhood & beloved friends, Mary, Josie, Catherine, Polly, and Liz. Mom loved her friends Dorothy/Ed, Judy, Ruthie & others from St.Stan's choir who visited and supported her. She was blessed w/many wonderful friends and relatives.

Additional survivors include: brother-in-law Walt Harezlak, Theresa (Matt) Blaszczyk, Loraine Harezlak.
Predeceased by sister Edna (Ed) Stone, brothers Tom (Jennie), Wally; along w/ several Harezlak sisters & brothers-in-law: Fa. Bernard Harezlak, Joe (Catherine), George, Irene, Mary (John), Sr. Acquinatta, Sr. Thomasetta, Sophie, Ed (Eleanor).

Our family sincerely appreciates the care and loving companionship provided by the staff at Presence St. Anne.

Memories of Jeannie continue to comfort each of us; while we will miss her so much we are consoled knowing she is no longer tired and waiting to join her loved ones. Heaven welcomes an inspiring and AMAZING angel!

"We'll see ya when we see ya"

Funeral Mass at 11am Thursday February 5, 2015 in St Stanislaus Church 201 Buckbee St. Rockford, IL 61104. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation from 5pm until 7pm Wednesday February 4 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home 1860 S. Mulford Road with rosary at 7pm. Visitation also from 10am until 10:45 Thursday in the church. In lieu of flowers memorials to be established at a later date. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com