Jennie J. Skiba, 88, of Crystal Falls, Mich., passed away Tuesday, February 16, 2010, with her family at her side at the Advocate Christ Medical Center, Oak Lawn, Ill. She was born October 21, 1921, daughter of the late Mary and John Kudwa. Jennie married Stanley Skiba on October 21, 1944, at the Guardian Angels Catholic Church, Crystal Falls. Stanley preceded her in death on July 26, 2001. At the age of 18, Jennie moved to Chicago with $10.00 that her mother had given her to start a new life for herself. She applied for a position at a mill where Stanley was the night shift manager. Stanley hired her to work on the assembly line because she had walked in from the rainy streets, and he felt sorry for her. They later were married and stayed in Chicago to work and raise a family. Stanley had always promised Jennie that they would move back to Crystal Falls after retirement to be near her family. In 1983, Stanley fulfilled his promise, and they moved to Crystal Falls. Jennie was a hard worker who prided herself on being able to do a good day's work. No matter what the chore, nothing was too big or too hard for her. She also enjoyed cooking and taking care of her nephews who would visit to go hunting and fishing. Jennie also loved spending time with her great-grandchildren, who referred to her as "Busha Michigan"—a title Jennie was very proud of. She was a tiny lady with a large love for life and God. She started each day wanting to deliver as much love and happiness to those around her as possible. She always had a smile followed by her special "thank you". Survivors include one daughter, Therese (Thomas) Lizik, Orland Park, Ill.; a special grandson, Kevin (Kathy) Lizik, Chicago; two great-grandchildren, Kaitlin Lizik and Kevin Lizik, Jr., both of Chicago; two brothers, John Kudwa, Louis (Elaine) Kudwa; two sisters, Joann Harju, Rose Kozol, all of Crystal Falls; many nieces and nephews. You may light a candle in remembrance of Jennie or leave a condolence for her family online at www.JacobsFuneralHomes.com The Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls, is serving the family. Visitation will be Sunday, February 21, 2010, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Jacobs-Plowe Funeral Home, Crystal Falls. A prayer service will be held 9:30 a.m. Monday, February 22, at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Monday at Guardian Angels Catholic Church. Rev. Jeffrey Kurtz will officiate. Burial will be in Evergreen Memorial Cemetery, Crystal Falls, in the spring.