Annie-Laurie Ziaja

Annie-Laurie Ziaja, 90, passed away at Victory Lakes Assisted Living in Lindenhurst, IL on Friday, May 13, 2022.

She was born on May 25, 1931, in Chicago, IL to Joseph and Frieda Bauer. On May 1, 1954, Annie married the love of her life, Joseph Ziaja, and they spent the next 49 years together.

Throughout her life Annie loved spending time with her family at birthday parties, holiday gatherings, and any occasion when the family would get together.  She was an excellent baker and was known to have a sweet tooth, so her friends and the staff of Victory Lakes referred to her as “The Cookie Lady”. She also enjoyed playing Bingo and the occasional trip to a casino and the many outings and activities she participated in with her friends at Victory Lakes.

Annie is survived by her children, Michael (Carolyn) Ziaja, Nancy (Mark) McClain, and Marianne Ziaja; grandchildren, Cari (Ryan) Syreini, Kelli (Jake) Keys, Daniel McClain, and Matthew (Mary) McClain; and great-grandchildren, Vincent and Nicholas Syreini, Eleanor and Stella Keys, and Padrick, Charlie, and Leonard McClain.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Frieda Bauer; husband, Joseph Ziaja; sisters, Anna (Edward) Butzbach, and Ramona (Adolph) Ridolfi; nephew, Edward Butzbach; and her aunt and uncle, Emmy and Nick Pleva

A memorial visitation will be held at Warren Funeral Home, 1475 N. Cemetery Rd., Gurnee, IL 60031 on Friday, May 27, 2022, at 5 p.m., followed by the funeral service at 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation in Annie’s name to Catholic Charities.

Annie embraced those around her with open arms and love and made all feel welcome and happy.  She was treasured wherever she was and will be fondly remembered by her family and all the friends she made throughout her life.

Warren Funeral Home is assisting the family.