Sophie Irene Chilinski

Sophie Irene Chilinski, 87, passed away Sunday, May 10, 2015 at Crouse Hospital, in the company of her husband Joseph, married for 67 years, and their three loving sons Richard, David and Steven. Sophie was born December 31, 1927. She was the daughter of Stanley and Bertha Zbikowski and was a lifelong resident of Syracuse, New York. In this life Sophie was the utmost caring and loving wife, mother and friend. She held her faith and the Lord dear to her heart attending mass daily - rain, snow or shine. Before retiring as a secretary from the city school district, she won approval to bring the joy of the Christmas Nativity for all those who wished to do so in the Syracuse School District. Sophie was the proud recipient of the "Distinguished Service in Education" Award from the Syracuse Superintendent of Schools. She was an avid bowler, still reaching a score of two hundred at eighty six years of age, and she much enjoyed a round of golf at Bellevue Country Club with her friends - although as of late she stopped keeping score. Sophie was a giving person sharing herself selflessly at many school projects, helping as librarian and was a member of several church choirs. Sophie dearly loved her children and grandchildren and always would say, “My children and grandchildren are my life.” She was a Cub Scout Den Mother and chauffeur to cross country, track and field and gymnastics events for her sons, always willing to take care of others. She is survived by her husband Joseph, her sons and their wives and children: Richard (Franca with Kristen), David (Wendy with Julia and Libby) and Steven (Lisa with Alexis and Melissa). She is also survived by her brothers John (Ann) and Ed (Peggy) and her sister Helen and numerous nieces and nephews; having been predeceased by her father and mother, her sisters Ann and Jane and brother Joe. Mom, we will miss you deeply and hold you in our hearts always, and while you are away for now, we know you will be watching and caring for us as you always have done; we shall keep you in our prayers forever, make you proud and share with others the light you have so selflessly shone upon us. Calling hours for family and friends are Tuesday May 12, 4PM to 7PM at Giminski-Wysocki Funeral Home, 1320 W. Genesee St. A Mass of Christian burial will be held 9:30 AM Wednesday, May 13 at Sacred Heart Basilica, Park Avenue. She will be laid to rest at Sacred Heart Cemetery in the Town of Geddes with a reception following at the Polish Home, Park Avenue.