Walanka, Esther

Esther Walanka (née Moskowitz), 101, of Skokie, IL, died peacefully on December 12, 2023. She was the beloved wife of the late Morton, cherished mother of Steven (Lillian), Robert (late Heidi Jones), and the late Barry, precious grandmother of Eryn and Marc Walanka (Christine), Travis Muth and Drew Walanka, and great grandmother of Nolan Walanka, Carson Walanka and Gabby Muth. She was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Becky Moskowitz, her brother, Lou Moss and sister, Sadie Gold. She was also a special sister-inlaw, aunt, great and great great aunt, and friend to many. Esther was born in Chicago and grew up on Division St. She graduated from Tuley High School and in 1946, married the love of her life, Morton Walanka. Even after he passed away in 1999, this love endured. Esther was beautiful, smart, a lifelong learner, a progressive thinker, a great listener, compassionate, optimistic, and non-judgmental. In her 40s, she returned to college, and worked as a teacher’s aide for CPS. Until her late 90s, she regularly played poker and Mahjong, attended the theater, and was always up for a trip to the casino to play video poker. She never missed her weekly hair appointment. Anyone who had the good fortune to meet Esther knew how lucky they were. She will be greatly missed. Special thanks to her caregivers, Cristina Peralta and Mariel Mata, for their kindness and dedication. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Parkinson’s Foundation or to The Michael J. Fox Foundation. Chapel service Mon. Dec. 18, 12:15 PM at

1700 W. Rand Road, Arlington Heights. Interment following at Shalom Memorial Park. For information, including a link to view the service, shiva, and to leave condolences, www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.