Mrs. Peggy L. Cryer

Mrs. Peggy L. Cryer (nee Chopp)

Passed away suddenly late Saturday May 10th, at the age of 61 in the comfort of her own home under the loving care provided by numerous family and friends. She had recently been prevailing in a very trying and courageous struggle with cancer, unfortunately the complications were just too great to overcome.

Peggy is survived by her son Augustine J. "Gus" (Jenny) Cryer, and daughter Lisa M Cryer. Grandchildren Taylor A. Cryer and Evelyn C. "Evie" Cryer; and Tristin M. West.

Survived by her sisters, Carol M. (Donald Sr.) Mikuska; Gloria J. Phillips; Sharon E. (Charles) Chipman; and Michelle L. (Michael) Stukel. Nieces and nephews Paula Cantleberry (Jeff); Robin Plese; Keith E. (Jennifer) Olsen and Kristina E. Olsen; Samuel A. Stukel and Nickolas R. Stukel; and Ronnette Chopp.

Great-nieces and great-nephews Aaron Cantleberry and Noah Cantleberry (Paula); Clayton, Clinton & Cameron Olsen (Keith); Gabriella Franchini and Roger "Tre" Phillips III (Kristina); Malea, Alex, Cole, and Chase Misenheimer (Ronnette).

Her love, guidance, and friendship had a deep impact in the lives of Julie K. Reichhardt; Tonya Kidman; Tammy L. (Kevin) Smith – Kevin Jr., Kyle Smith; Tina M. (Chris) Frost – Mariah, Nicholas, and Madison Frost; and numerous others. Her profound influence touched the lives of so very many.

Also survived by brothers-in-law John R. (Liz) Cryer and Robert B. Cryer; sisters-in-law Diana L. Huey (Wayne) and Mary E. Bivens; neice Cheryl A. Cryer; great-nephews Daniel Hannigan Jr. and Mark Richards (Cheryl); nieces Sarah and Emily Cryer (Robert).

In the spirit of friendship and support: Barbara Ziegner, Denise & Chuck Proper, Louis & Meri Knauer, Tom & Louise Barrowman, and numerous other nieces, nephews, neighbors, relatives, friends, and Rick's beloved pet "Sir Pugsley," who also eventually held a special place in her heart.

Preceded in death by her loving husband and best friend Richard J. Cryer (2009). Peggy and Rick were high school sweethearts, married in 1970 and truly inseparable until his passing. Their eternal commitment to each other and family was unparalleled. They enjoyed many happy and memorable years always together with those they loved most, although it sadly ended much too soon.
The family takes great comfort in knowing Peggy and Rick are reunited again.

She was also preceded in death by her parents Augustine C. "Gus" Chopp (1976) and Margaret D. Chopp nee Krupecky (2007); brothers Carl A. "Happy" Chopp (1983) and Ronald M. Chopp (1998); nephew Donald A. Mikuska Jr. (2008); father-in-law John E. Cryer (1977) and mother-in law Shirley L. (nee Joseph) Cryer (2000); brother-in-law Frederick C. Cryer (1983); grandmother-in-law Lucille L. Joseph (1998); Friends Bernard L. Stamm (2008) and Raymond F. Ziegner (2007). Also recently preceded in death by special angel Madison Frost (2014).

Peggy was a 1970 graduate of Joliet East High School. After years of being a devoted homemaker, mother, and mother figure to all she then attended Joliet Junior College in pursuit of a Mechanical Engineering degree. However just before she achieved this degree, her career took a very different and more personal path to support Rick in fulfilling his dream of owning their own mechanical contracting business in honor of Peggy's father and Rick's mentor, Augustine Chopp. What began as Peggy's support of Rick's dream, soon became their career together. Rick had a vision and was able to achieve it with the pure and unending support of Peggy. Together their combined determination allowed the co-founding of Cryer & Olsen Mechanical, Inc. with nephew Keith Olsen, "The Good One." The company was started from nothing and with their heart, soul, and drive evolved into a successful thriving and respected business for the last 22 years that plans to continue their legacy. Peggy took great pride by assuming Rick's role as President after his passing. Under her direct supervision and guidance Cryer and Olsen continued to excel and prosper to not only fulfill, but exceed their vision.

Peggy thoroughly enjoyed time with family, friends, and co-workers. When she and Rick allowed themselves some time away, they were frequent guests of Harrah's Casino. One of the most memorable attributes Peggy had was her special love for children. This was evident by her ability to make any and all feel welcome from day to day visits to holidays, birthdays and parties. She went above and beyond for all, her door was always open, and her generosity was unmatched.

The family wishes to give special thanks and admiration to the entire staff of Joliet Oncology and Hematology Association, and express their deepest gratitude for the unending guidance of Dr. Sarode Pundaleeka, whose experience, compassion, and commitment to her care allowed Peggy to enjoy the greatest quality of life possible during her trying battle. Thank you all.

Donations in Peggy's name to the JOHA Foundation at www.jolietoncology.com/foundation would be greatly valued and appreciated, especially considering how Cancer has affected her family, friends and the lives of so many others. The JOHA Foundation provides financial assistance so that the less fortunate patients can receive the same exceptional care. Family will receive friends at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 102 E. Francis Road, New Lenox, IL 60451 on Thursday, May 15, 2014 from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM and Friday, May 16, 2014 from 9:00 AM until time of Funeral Service at 11:00 AM. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park II. For information www.kurtzmemorialchapel.com or 815-485-3200.