Maxine Frances Wajda
Maxine Frances Wajda was born on November 3, 1942, in Chicago, Illinois to Joseph and Emily Jendraszak. She passed away in the comfort of her home, on July 25, 2022, after a long journey with Alzheimer’s disease.Maxine’s life was dedicated to her family and service career as a registered nurse.
Maxine worked as an operating room nurse at La Grange Memorial Adventist Hospital for over 30 years. As a nurse, she served in many different roles that allowed her passion for nursing and her caring nature to shine through.
Maxine was married to her late husband, Chet, for over 50 years. Over the years together, they raised their two children, and enjoyed traveling, taking cruises, gardening, and cooking. Maxine was also heavily involved in the charitable educational organization, The Knights of Dabrowski, with her husband Chet, for over 40 years. Maxine’s greatest joy in life was becoming and being a grandma to her beloved grandson Mark, whom she truly adored. Throughout her life, Maxine’s authentic warmth, happiness, likability, modesty, and amiable way of being was her trademark.
Maxine is survived by her children, Ches (Jennifer) Wajda; Michele (Andrew) Johannes; her grandchild Mark Johannes; and her sister Pauline Hefer.
Visitation will be from 8:30 am to 9:30 am on Tuesday, August 2nd, at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside, proceeding to St. Cletus Church, 600 W. 55th St., La Grange for Mass at 10:00 am. A private entombment will be held at All Saints Cemetery, 700 N. River Rd., Des Plaines at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to either: the Knights of Dabrowski Crusade for Education at 773-792-1800 or The Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org.
Funeral info: 708-352-6500
So sorry for your loss. Maxine was a wonderful nurse and friend to all who knew her. Unfortunately I will not be able to attend her funeral due to an earlier commitment. I also lost my mother to Alzheimer’s and know she is happy to be with her husband.
We were deeply saddened to hear about Maxine’s passing. On behalf of the Knights, we extend our deepest condolences along with our prayers and best wishes to her family and friends.
Maxine was a Crown Member of the Knights of Dabrowski. She served as Secretary for over 30 years, along with her late husband and past President Chester Wajda.
She played a major role in helping hundreds of students achieve their dreams and making a difference in their lives through the Knights of Dabrowski Crusade for Education Program.
She and her husband were the heart and soul of the Knights organization for many years. Maxine was warm and welcoming, always willing to help. She was deeply devoted to her family and her community.
We, the Knights, were so lucky to have had the privilege of knowing her. May you rest in peace dear friend!
Maria Kozicz
Knights of Dabrowski
Max was always friendly and helpful as an OR nurse at LaGrange hospital. So sorry for your loss.