Beatrice M. Jilek, age 85

Beatrice M. Jilek, age 85, of New Prague, died peacefully on December 29, 2016, at her daughter’s home in New Jersey.

Bea was born October 17, 1931, in Montgomery, MN to Louis and Bessie (Shetka) Ambroz. She was raised in the New Prague/ Heidelberg area and attended New Prague Public Schools. On October 14, 1950, Bea married Myles G. “Milo” "Rocky" Jilek at St. Scholastica Catholic Church in Heidelberg.

She was a homemaker and worked numerous jobs through the years. She volunteered as a religious education teacher when her children were growing up and was active in ZCBJ fraternal organization. In her early years, she started out as a dental assistant with Dr. Sladek, went to Green Giant Canning Factory, and waitressed at The Snack in New Prague. Later, she worked as a Paraprofessional with Scott County Schools, a nanny for a private family, and for Dispatch, assembling electronic components. Bea loved fishing and gardening, shopping and garage sales. She also loved to cook but really appreciated going out to eat! Her highest priority, however, was time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Bea is survived by her children, Richard (Diana) Jilek of Shakopee, Gary (Sharon) Jilek of Rochester, Jim (Betty) Jilek of New Prague, Kathy Jilek (Richard Barsky) of Clementon, NJ; brother, Alvin Ambroz of Waseca; 14 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, Milo Jilek on May 4, 2014; parents, Louis & Bessie Ambroz; brother, Ronald Ambroz.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, January 7, 2017, at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father George Grafsky officiating. Visitation will occur Friday from 5-8 PM and Saturday from 7:30 – 9:30 AM at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will take place at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery followed by lunch at the KC Hall. bruzekfuneralhome.com