Walter Wilk
Walter W. Wilk, 83, of Chicago and Itasca, passed away on May 18, 2025. Beloved husband of 57 years to Pamela J., nee Landers, who was by his side, holding his hand as he passed. Loving father of Thomas (Marisa) and Jennifer Grabianski. Cherished grandfather of Matt, Eden, Noah, Evan, Michael and Cale. He will be missed by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Wally was a US Army veteran. He was very involved with the St. Ferdinand Parish. He organized several of the church’s annual fundraisers, including square dances and casino nights. He was also President of the St. Ferdinand School Board and judged many school science fairs. He was proud of his service to Junior Achievement USA, where he mentored high school students and taught 7th and 8th graders at St. Theresa School. He also served as a Cub Scout leader and coached his son’s baseball teams. Wally planned his high school’s 50th reunion as well as many follow-up luncheons with his Amundsen classmates. Wally also meticulously planned annual vacations, taking his family all across the United States and Canada. A lifelong Chicago White Sox fan, he also enjoyed bowling, country music, comedy, and Broadway musicals. He was known for his great sense of humor. Wally retired from R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company after 43 years in the field of Accounting. He continued traveling during his retirement; some of his favorite trips included touring Civil War battlefields, cheering at various high school girls’ and boys’ basketball games, going to the Indy 500, and visiting the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. His greatest joy was spending time with his grandchildren, whether attending band concerts and sporting events, taking them on special trips, or being Master Scorekeeper at regular family game nights.
A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, May 31 from 10am until the time of the memorial service at 12pm at Smith-Corcoran Funeral Home, 185 E Northwest Highway, Palatine IL 60067. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mercy Home for Boys and Girls, St. Jude, or a charity of your choice.