Delores (Bilz) Daniels

Delores Daniels, 81, of Harvard, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at her home.

She was born November 22, 1939, in Butternut, WI to Paul and Nelda (Miller) Bilz.  Survivors include her children Wendy (Herb) Kuryliw, Patricia (Steven) Reddersdorf, and Steve (Jennifer) Garrels; grandchildren Michael Reddersdorf, Justin (Justine) Kuryliw, James Reddersdorf, Jared (Maeva) Kuryliw, Lindsey (Zach) Olson, Megan (Donald) Keacher, Taylor and Tannor Garrels; great-grandchildren Noah, Levi, Nolan, and Brinley; siblings Harvey (Ruth) Bilz, Nancy Illbeck, Eugene (Connie) Bilz, and Anna (Richard) Clark and numerous nieces, nephews, and step-children, and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, spouses, and several siblings.

Delores was known as a hard worker and instilled a strong work ethic in her children. She was a proud UAW union member while working at Woodstock Die Casting and also worked at Admiral and Filter Tek. 

She had many hobbies and interests. Delores enjoyed photography, quilting, crafting, playing bingo and gardening. She also thoroughly enjoyed bowling and participating in various bowling leagues with friends. She was a fierce competitor when she put on her bowling shoes. She had a “take no prisoner” approach to disposing of any family member that challenged her on the oiled lanes. She also was an avid sports fan, but her favorite was afternoons watching the Chicago Cubs.  Although she loved her Cubbies, she did have a certain disdain for one relief pitcher due to his propensity to blow leads. It’s a good thing she didn’t have the phone number to the bullpen. 

Most of all, Delores’s biggest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren. She loved attending events they participated in.  Some of her favorites were the weddings of her grandchildren and the births of her great-grandchildren. She loved cheering on her grandchildren in their activities and took an active interest in the various sports they participated in.  Whether it be having her family taking her fishing on Butternut Lake, playing nickel slots at the casino, or going out for Friday night fish she was always eager to participate regardless of her condition.  Many memories were made and will be cherished forever. She will truly be missed by her family and friends. 

Due to the pandemic, a celebration of life for Delores will be held at a later date.

The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to The Harvard Fire & Rescue Department, P.O. Box 431 Harvard, IL 60033 for the exceptional service they provided for Delores.

Family and friends may sign the online guest book at www.saundersmcfarlin.net.

For more information, call Saunders and McFarlin Funeral Home at 815-943-5400.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Delores (Bilz) Daniels, please visit our floral store.