Leona M. Slye-Hurst

Leona M. Slye–Hurst, 89, of Rockford passed away Saturday, April 23, 2016. Born September 13, 1926 in Rockford to Bill and Mary Balhouski. A graduate of East High School, where she was part of the second class to graduate. Married Lewis Slye on May 28, 1946, he predeceased her; remarried Harold Lee Hurst on October 3, 1998. Previously employed as a book keeper; and retired two times from Sears. Leona enjoyed swimming, and in her younger years she was part of East High School’s synchronized swim team. She was a proud sports mom and grandma, but most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family.

Survivors include sons, Daniel W. Slye, Patrick Lewis (Crystal) Slye; grandchildren, Patrick Selover, Danielle Baker, Denae Simplot, Daniel R. Slye, Patrick Selover-Slye, Valarie Selover-Slye, Cassie Hendel, Briana Hendel, Josh Slye; great grandchildren, Ethan Small, Alyssa Baker, Liam Slye, Sydnee Elvin, Evin Simplot Jr., Julain Simplot, Jasmine Simplot; brother-in-law, Jack (Cheryl) Slye; nephews, Greg Hawker, John Slye; niece, Stephanie Slye; and special friend, Peter Romanyk and family. Predeceased by parents; mother and father-in-law, Lewis and Florence Slye, Sr.; first husband, Lewis; second husband, Harold; daughter, Valarie Carter; sister-in-law, Violet Hawker; and nephew, Dennis Hawker.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 12:00 p.m., Friday, April 29, 2016 in St. Edward Catholic Church, 3004 11th Street, Rockford. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Thursday, April 28, 2016 in Honquest Family Funeral Homes with Crematory – Mulford Chapel, 4311 N. Mulford Road, Loves Park, with a rosary being recited at 7:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers memorials may be given to River Bluff Nursing Home and a special thansk to the River Bluff staff and the Cardinal neighborhood.

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