Dominica Mazanowicz

Dominica Mazanowicz, 85, went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, August 4, 2009. She was born Sept. 18, 1923 in Wolka Popiensica, Poland. The daughter of Egnase (Ned) and Paula Byczyk. Married Andrew (Andy) Mazanowicz on February 15, 1942. After surviving numerous conflicts during WWII and being liberated by the Americans from Nazi and Communist forces in Germany in 1951, Andrew and Dominica immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island, NY, NY and settled in Rockford in 1957. Dominica worked at several companies, and retired from Chrysler Corporation in 1988 after 17 years of service. Dominica had profound energy and respect for life, was extremely dedicated to her family and friends, and had an unshakable deep belief in God and Jesus Christ, which gave her daily strength, especially through lifes trials and tribulations. She had a great sense of humor, royalty and charisma about her that is, and will be, hard to match. Dominica always spoke positively about everyone she met.

Dominica is survived by her son, Nickolas (Ramona) Mazanowicz of Northport, FL, daughter, Antonina (Michael) Byard of Blaine, MN; son, John (Susan) Mazanowicz of Rockford, IL; daughter, Catherine Mazanowicz of Schaumburg, IL and daughter, Maria (Mark) Raedeke of Rockford, IL. Also survived by 9 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, all of whom she deeply loved, enjoyed, and was very proud of individually. Preceded in death by both parents, all other immediate family in Europe, and beloved husband, Andrew Mazanowicz.

A special Thank-You to SwedishAmerican Heart Hospital, doctors, nurses and staff for their professionalism and care. In addition, to daughter Maria and granddaughter Lisa (Mazanowicz) Cowell for their sacrifices and commitment to Dominicas care prior to her passing.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Monday, August 10, 2009 at Central Christian Church, 6595 Guilford Rd. Rockford, IL 61107 with her son, Minister Nick Mazanowicz officiating. Interment to be held at Greenwood Cemetery, 1011 Auburn St. Rockford, IL following the service. Visitation from 4:00-6:00pm on Sunday, August 9 th at Fitzgerald Funeral Home amp; Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorials be sent to St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. To express condolences online, please visit www.fitzgerladfh.com