Modesta J. "Midge" Smith

Modesta "Midge" Smith, nee Wawrzynski. Born on Cubs Opening Day, 1930, in Chicago, to the late Chester and Charlotte, nee Niedzielski, Wawrzynski. Peacefully met her maker December 16, 2017, Park Ridge, IL, age 87, after a spirited extended extra-innings contest. Survived cancer and traumatic brain injury, but prouder of going entire life without flu, flu shots, or a cold. Carl Schurz H.S., 1948 (flute, marching band); Wright Jr. College, 1951. Volunteer for Adlai Stevenson, Jr. campaigns. Worked at Marshall Field's and for Time-Life until marriage. Loyal wife and partner of 60 years to the late Victor, with whom she twice renewed vows. Co-founder, many-time officer, and 40-year member of the Field School (Park Ridge) Mothers Bowling League (later, The Breakfast Club). Recognized in local press for bowling 1,000 consecutive league games without an absence or substitution. Attended 41 Opening Days in a row for her beloved Cubs. Avid gardener, prolific cross-stitch artist, former United Way and PTA volunteer; two-time U.S. census worker, lifelong WGN listener, many-time Maine Twp. election judge. Survived the Depression, WWII, and decades of living in a household of men. Devoted mother and Cub Scout den mother to Jeffrey (Nancy) of Evanston, Daniel (Jeannette) of Hope, IN, and Gregory (Lisa) of Naperville. A strong believer in hard work, the value of education, and that everyone should be treated equally. Loving sister of, and survived by, Millie (Jack) Sawyer, Chester "Sam" Wawrzynski, Mary (the late Don) Heldmann, and Charlotte (the late Bill) Brown. Leaves 9 grandchildren, 12 nieces and nephews, 4 great-grandchildren, and 22 grandnieces and grandnephews, many of whom will have enduring memories of her handcrafted Christmas cards or holiday jello jigglers. Visitation Friday, Jan. 5, 4-8 p.m., at Ryan-Parke Funeral Home, 120 S. Northwest Hwy., Park Ridge. Memorial Mass Saturday, Jan. 6, 10 a.m., at St. Paul of the Cross Church, 140 S. Northwest Hwy., Park Ridge. Interment private.     

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