Lillian Pazar

Lillian Pazar 1922-2023 Journey to Heaven

Lived  the – Dash 101 years

Lillian Pazar, gardener, farmer, cheating card player, amazing cook who made delicious bread, avid reader and lifelong learner was born February 4, 1922 in Roseland (Chicago) one of 77 communities on the city south side. Lillian passed away peacefully February 21 ^st at the home of her daughter Vicki (Pazar) Thomas and son-in-law Stephen Thomas Weston, CT. She was 101.

Lillian graduated from Fenger High School in 1940. Lillian’s mother, Anna Chukwins, passed away when Lillian was 16.  As an only child, Lillian spent many happy days at the library consumed in ‘who done it’ mysteries and ice skating on a nearby park pond. Lillian learned the enjoyment of life with peace and solitude at a very early age.

Chicago industry went to war on December 7, 1941 and Lillian went to work as an inspector of General Sherman (M-4) tanks that were produced by Pullman Standard Car Company. She met the love of her life, Charles Pazar (Chuck), at a Walgreen’s soda fountain in May 1941.  Chuck and Lillian married June 6 ^th , 1942. Lillian and Chuck wanted to leave bustling city life and they bought a farm in Deerbrook, Wisconsin, June 1944. Farm work at the time was primitive – plowing fields with horses until they saved money to purchase a tractor and farm equipment.

Lillian gave birth to daughter, Vicki, at Antigo Hospital January 7, 1946. Lillian and Chuck had one child but were blessed that friends Tom and Sharon Matucheski,(North Avenue Antigo) became important family members.  Chuck and Tom worked together at Wynwood Particle Factory. Tom and Sharon had two children, Barb (Aderholt) and Philip Matucheski, who called Chuck and Lil Grandma and Grandpa.

Chuck passed away in 1990. After 50 years Lillian sold the family farm in 1998 moving to Weston, CT to live with her daughter and son-in-law in 2000. Lillian made many friends in Weston and Westport.  She enjoyed yoga, bead making, many crafts at Westport Senior Center for 10 years.  She loved Broadway plays with her friends, traveled with Vicki and Steve to Spain, Italy, Japan and many Caribbean sailing trips.

Lillian will be remembered for her love of animals, snack provider to companion dogs, Izzie and

Sconnie, her sweet tooth and lover of all thing’s chocolate, mandolin playing, her kind, gentle spirit, warm loving smile and great ability to ask questions, listen, and learn all about you. Lillian was always a behind the scenes person. She hated sardines and hypocrites. Lillian will be dearly missed by many who knew and loved her.

A celebration of her life will be held in Antigo, WI in June.  Details to follow.