Esther Walenga (née Barnas), age 95, late of Homewood, formerly of South Holland and Dolton. Beloved wife of the late Edward L. Walenga; loving mother of Mary Jensen, Gregory (Barbara) Walenga, Lori (Steve) Nalefski, the late Michael Walenga and Timothy Walenga; proud grandmother of Stephanie (Kevin), Joseph, Kevin (Taeopae), and Madison (Alex); cherished great-grandmother of Daniel; dear sister of Joseph Barnas, and the late Valentine, Wanda, Stanley, and Lillian.

Esther spent her life caring for her family. She had many talents, and she shared the fruits of her talents with many. She was a great cook, a skilled knitter and seamstress. She proudly tended a vegetable and flower garden every year. She sang in the church choir and belonged to a chapter of Sweet Adelines. She was an avid bridge player and had attained the rank of Grand Life Master. She offered her time as a volunteer to many organizations and was a lifelong Cubs fan.

Visitation Thursday, April 9, from 10:30 A.M. until the time of the Funeral Mass, 11:30 A.M., at Christ Our Savior Church, 900 E. 154th Street, South Holland.

Entombment Holy Cross Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls .