Zdenka “Denise” Kadlcek of Willowbrook, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Kadlcek. She is survived by her son, John (Jennifer) and Denise (Roman); her 3 grandchildren Josef, Gwen and Claire whom she loved immensely; as well as her brother Vašek (Kathy), nephew Jim (Kerri), niece Lisa (Bryan), nephew Tony (Susan), and nieces Jarka and Mana (Tonda).

Zdenka immigrated to New York as a child and then to Chicago some years later. While helping her mom’s friend at Minarik’s Bakery, their cousin John, visiting from Czech, came to shovel her out of the snow storm. And there started their love story. Moving from Berwyn to LaGrange Park in the late 80s, Zdenka and John raised their kids with the help of her mother.

Zdenka was someone who liked to help; whether it be to share her home to family friends while they visited from Czech, bringing suitcases of gifts to John’s family when they visited, being part of the church parish where her children went to school (even years after they graduated) or just doing little things to make others smile.

Remaining connected to her Czech roots, Zdenka danced as a young adult and continued to attend events and support both Moravian Cultural Societies and United Moravian Societies.

Above all, Zdenka will be remembered for her strength, her kindness and deep love for her family and friends.

Visitation will be held at Hursen Funeral Home in Hillside, 4001 Roosevelt Rd, on Friday June 26, 2026 from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM. 

A viewing followed by Czech Holy Mass will take place on Saturday June 27, 2026, beginning at 9:00 AM at the Czech Mission of Brookfield, 9415 Rochester Ave.

Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

Info: 800-562-0082