Eli Sysock

Eli Sysock, Sr., of rural Rensselaer, passed away on Thursday, March 3, 2016 at Franciscan Health Rensselaer. He was born in Buckner, Illinois on August 2, 1917, son of the late Michael and Anna (Posypanko) Sysock. On January 21, 1940, he married his wife of 70 years, Anastasia “Stella” (Simon) Sysock. She preceded him in death on September 18, 2010.

Eli was a lifelong farmer, and resided on the family farm northeast of Rensselaer for 75 years. At one point, he had the largest mink ranch in North America. He worked for Gehring Farms growing mint for many years. He loved his garden and his orchard, and he enjoyed making homemade wine from the fruit that he grew. He was fluent in six different languages. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and spending the winters down in Florida.

Eli is survived by: one son, Eli Sysock, Jr.; one daughter, Chris (Sysock) Sbertoli; six grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by: his parents; his wife Stella; and one daughter, Olga Walsh.

Visitation will be on Saturday, March 5, 2016 from 1-3 p.m. (CST) at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 3 p.m. at Steinke Funeral Home of Rensselaer with Chaplain Bob Rawlins officiating. Interment will follow at Weston Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Rensselaer Central High School FFA. Share memories and condolences online at www.SteinkeFuneralHome.com.