Prairie State Wire

Ela Zemaitaitis, born on June 15, 1933, peacefully passed away on February 27, 2025, at the age of 91. Originally from Lithuania, she lived in various German towns before settling with her family in Chicago's Brighton Park neighborhood and later in Oak Lawn. Ela is survived by her beloved sister Zelma and brother-in-law Kestas Juskenas, sister-in-law Elena (Martin) Zemaitaitis, and dear friend Sandra Goeken. She was a cherished aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by her parents Marta (nee Kleinaityte) and Jonas Zemaitaitis, siblings Lydia and Kazys Budvytis, Marta and Tadas Krivickas, Martin Zemaitaitis, August and Anna Zemaitaitis, Edita and Romas Kupreisis, and Irma Zemaitaitis, nephew Edward Dargelis, and her life and dance partner, Oscar Lopez.

Ela was a passionate ballroom dancer, competing nationwide and enjoying the dance circuit in Las Vegas with Oscar. She cherished family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions. Known for her independence and determination, she remained active and healthy, embracing the belief that "you use it or you lose it." In her final days, she shared her dance moves and warmth with the staff and residents at Lakeview Memory Care.

A Memorial Visitation is scheduled for Monday, March 24, 2025, at Lack and Sons Funeral Home in Hickory Hills, with a Memorial Service to follow. Inurnment will take place at Lithuanian National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations to St. John-Tėviskės Church in Darien, IL, are deeply appreciated. To offer condolences, send flowers, or plant a tree in memory of Ela, please visit our floral store.

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