Howard Birky

Howard C. Birky, 87, of Zion, died on Friday, April 4, 2008, at home peacefully in his sleep. Howard was born June 23, 1920 in Walnut, Illinois. He was a member of Christ Community Church of Zion. He retired in 1983 from Abbott Labs after 22 years and prior to that had worked for Fansteel in North Chicago and Deep Freeze in Lake Bluff. He was also a member of Zion-Benton Moose, Lake County Promenaders Square Dance Group, Summer Nut's Camping Group and he enjoyed boating. Survivors include his wife of 69 years, Juanita; two daughters, Darlene Zeihen of Bristol, Wisconsin and Linda Aaron of Frenchtown, Montana; eight grandchildren, Michael, Thomas, Ronald, Robert, Michelle, Cassandra, David and Susan; nine great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Ellene Stittegen of Waukegan; and one sister-in-law, Bonnie Birky of Florida. He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Anna Birky; brothers, Raymond (and his wife Helen), Lloyd (and his wife Mary), Harold and Ralph (and his wife Georgie). Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2008, at 3:00 p.m. at the CONGDON FUNERAL HOME, 3012 Sheridan Road. Zion, with Pastor Jon Wiziarde officiating and private cremation to follow. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until time of services at the Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Christ Community Church, 2500 Dowie Memorial Drive, Zion, IL 60099 have been suggested.