Barbara Zak

Barbara J. Zak, 86, of Urbana, passed away on Saturday (December 7, 2024) at Hickory Pointe Christian Village in Forsyth.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4

Barbara was born on November 5, 1938, in Chicago, to parents, Joseph and Joan Witek. She is survived by a brother, Richard (Christine) Witek, a son, Stefan (Sandra) Zak, two daughters, Eva Palmer and Irene (Jim) Ferree, five grandchildren (Adam Zak, Aaron Zak, Jessica Stamper, Daniel Strowmatt and Sam Cobb), as well as seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Dr. Adam R. Zak.

Barbara grew up in the suburbs of Chicago, graduated high school in 1956, then graduated from DePaul University with a degree in education. She worked as a teacher in Champaign for the Unit 4 District. Barbara, loved teaching and believed in the importance of education.  Barbara had strong faith and was a member of Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church of Urbana.

Barbara loved spending her time with her children, grandchildren, friends and her pets. She enjoyed traveling, swimming, bowling, and games with friends. Barbara will be remembered most for her warm kind smile, soft heart and love for the church.

Visitation will be at Owens Funeral Home (101 N. Elm Street, Champaign) on December 20th from 5:00 - 6:30 P.M. The funeral service will begin at 6:30pm at the funeral home. The family will be holding a private burial for Barbara at Prairieview Cemetery, Savoy.

Memorial contributions may be made in Barbara’s honor to Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church of Urbana.

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