Helen Eizik

Helen Beck Szulkowski Eizik, age 101, passed peacefully on 7/11/2026, leaving behind a remarkable century-long legacy of strength, resilience, and devotion to family.

Helen was born December 13, 1924, in Herrick, Illinois, to Minnie Beck and Otto Beck, and grew up on a small family farm in Pomeroy, Iowa, where she developed the strong work ethic and resilience that would guide her throughout her life. In 1942, Helen moved to Chicago with Walter Szulkowski, where she made her home for more than eight decades. She later retired from the Illinois State Tollway, where she dedicated many years of service.

Helen was known for her strong family values, quiet determination, and her ability to make everyone feel welcome. She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, Walter Szulkowski; her second husband, Paul Eizik; her son Wayne; her stepson Kenny; her grandson Walter; and her son-in-law Charles.

She is survived by her children Walter (Monica), Warren (Patti), Nancy (Mitch), Karen (George), Linda (preceded in death by her husband Charles), and Paul (Carrie); her daughter-in-law Sandi (Steve); and 16 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren, who continue her family’s legacy.

Helen will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the love she gave so freely to her family throughout her long and beautiful life. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Visitation for Helen will take place on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 from 9:00 am until time of funeral service at 11:30 am at Cumberland Chapels 8300 W. Lawrence Ave. Norridge, Il. Interment will follow at the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery.