Sarah Rose Czapla

Sarah Rose Czapla, 88, originally of Arlington Heights, IL, since then relocated to Crystal Lake, IL, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2023. She was born on April 8, 1935 in Chicago, IL to the late Joseph and Rose (nee Rini) Enna.

On May 11, 1969, Sarah married Richard Czapla. Together, they celebrated 43 years of marriage until his passing in 2012. They were blessed with two children, Maria (Jim) Melchert and Joseph  (Annmarie), and further blessed with four grandchildren, Nathan Melchert, Mia Melchert, Brandon Czapla and Jonathan Czapla.

Sarah lived a full life. She worked many years as a bank teller and administratively supported the architect, Bertrand Goldberg, best known for Marina City Complex in Chicago. Prior to getting married and having children, Sarah solely traveled Europe and Cuba. She often described her travels as unprecedented.

She was a devoted Mother, always planning outings and gathering people to share in good times. Endless trips to Great America, Kiddieland, Lake Geneva and Wisconsin Dells have brought a lifetime of memories to her children.  Her love and appreciation for the arts were the cornerstone of her journey. She adored the tunes from the mid-century decades, which transported her back to a wonderful time and brought joy to her heart.  Sammy Davis Jr.,  Dean Martin, Tony Martin, Luciano Pavarotti and Frank Sinatra were just a few of her many favorites.

Westerns were often on the TV while she multi-tasked around her home, Bonanza and Gunsmoke were a couple of her faves. The iconic Andy Griffth , I Love Lucy and The Carol Burnett shows were always a go to. Her own musical talents extended to playing the piano, where she would often fill her home with music.  “Come Back to Sorrento” and “Harbor Lights” were her signature tunes. She continued to support the arts by attending local musicals in Community High School District 155.

Sarah also dedicated her time to the PTA, where she worked to enhance the educational experience of local children. Sarah enjoyed teaching after-school activities and clubs at her children’s grade schools, positively influencing the lives of countless young people. Her enthusiasm and dedication left an indelible mark on all those she interacted with.

While residing at Fair Oaks Health Care Center for the past 7 years, Sarah brought much light and laughter to the staff and residents alike. Her witty one liners, “telling it like it is” perspective and sense of humor have provided staff members much hilarity over the years She will be sorely missed as one of their longtime residents.

Sarah was proud of her Sicilian American heritage, yet she also embraced the Polish culture of her husband by attending many Polish American Club meetings and fundraisers to save the Copernicus Center in Chicago. She also volunteered many hours supporting the Emilia Plater Polish School in Mt. Prospect.

Sarah's greatest source of joy was her family. She was the original ‘Mama Bear.’ She fiercely adored her children and grandchildren, always cherishing the moments spent together and nurturing the bonds that held her family close. She was always appreciative of the love and care her children provided her over the years. Her love and warmth will forever be remembered in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Visitation will be Friday, October 27, 2023 from 4 PM until the funeral service at 7:30 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to JourneyCare, www.journeycare.org or to St. Jude, www.stjude.org