Obituary of Teresa Bachara

Teresa Bachara (nee Zyga), age 77 of Joliet, IL (previously of Chicago) passed away at home after a long illness, surrounded by family, on Wednesday, July 20, 2022.

Teresa was born September 4, 1944, in Raude, Germany, to the late Helena and Dominik Zyga. Her parents chose to emigrate to the U.S. after the war; they arrived at Ellis Island in 1950.

She is the beloved wife of Julian J. Bachara; loving mother of Elizabeth (Ronald) Van Dyke, Jr., Robert (Bridget) Bachara and Mark (Audra Simel) Bachara; devoted grandmother of Matthew and Katlyn Van Dyke; Kyle and Grace Bachara. Sibling of Christine (the late Gregory) Baine and Edward (Beverly) Zyga. "Ciocia T" (aunt) to an extended network of treasured nieces and nephews, loving cousins and relations. She was a friend to many; often making lasting connections from the briefest of encounters.

Teresa was employed for many years as an Administrative Assistant at William Rainey Harper College in Palatine, Illinois; retiring early to take on her most important role of attentive Babcia (grandmother) to her four grandchildren. Famous for her sweet treats and hearty meals, "T" also enjoyed travelling abroad with Julian, visiting relatives and companions all over the U.S. and Europe throughout their marriage.

In keeping with her wishes, inurnment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, IL will be private. A Celebration of Life will be held in the coming weeks where family and friends will honor her warm and festive spirit.