Anna Jean Krolak

Anna Jean (Waldschmidt) Krolak, aged 93, passed away peacefully on November 7, 2024, at 12:50 a.m., surrounded by her three loving daughters at Hoosier Village in Indianapolis, Indiana. In a moment of providence, all five of her children were able to gather by her side the weekend before, sharing cherished conversations and precious moments.

Anna Jean’s life was marked by devotion to family, a remarkable strength of spirit, and a tireless joy for life. Born seventh of eight children in Metamora, Illinois, Anna Jean spent her early years on a farm, learning the values of hard work and resilience. She eventually found love and lifelong companionship with her husband, Ron Krolak, whom she met while working as a personal assistant at Caterpillar Tractor’s Engineering Department in Peoria. Together, they married, built their first home in Metamora in 1958, and later moved to Morton, Illinois in 1974. In 1996, Anna Jean and Ron retired to the scenic community of Desert Mountain in northern Scottsdale, Arizona.

After Ron’s passing in 2018, Anna Jean relocated to Indianapolis in 2020 to be closer to her daughter Lynne. True to her vibrant nature, she quickly made an impression on her new community, charming residents with her infectious smile and terrifying others with her motorized scooter adventures. She continued to live with joy, bringing her lively spirit to every card game and gathering.

A devoted lifelong Catholic, Anna Jean let her faith be her constant guide. She began her education at St. Mary’s Grade School in Metamora, where she first embraced the values of compassion and service. She then attended Metamora High School, graduating in 1949, and carried the lessons of her faith and education with her throughout her life.

Known for her friendly nature and mischievous twinkle, Anna Jean made friends effortlessly and was always the first to lend a helping hand to family, friends, or anyone in need. Her generosity and warmth left an indelible mark on all who had the fortune of knowing her.

Anna Jean was preceded in death by four brothers; Norbert, Julius, Leonard, and Dennis, by three sisters; Imelda, Viola, and Loretta, by her husband of 60 years; Ronald, by a grandchild; Joe Mauro Jr, and by two great-grandchildren; Jackson and Cameron Bendzlowicz. She is survived by her five devoted children and their families: Keith Krolak (Kathleen) of New Haven, Connecticut; Lynne Brennan (John) of Indianapolis, Indiana; Steven Krolak (Jennifer) of Lexington, Kentucky; Kristine Mauro (Joseph) of Hickory Corners, Michigan; and Susan Hennenkamp (Jeff) of Wake Forest, North Carolina. She also leaves behind 16 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply and kept close in her thoughts and heart, right up until her final days.

Anna Jean was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, whose spirited life and kind heart will be sorely missed by all who knew her. Her legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family will live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to:

Saint Mary's School 415 Chatham Metamora, IL 61548