Michael J. Rybak

MANTENO—Michael J. Rybak, 97, of Manteno and formerly of Chicago, passed away Monday, July 23, 2018 at the Illinois Veterans Home in Manteno.
Born Sept. 29, 1920 in Chicago, IL, Michael Joseph was a son of Stanley and Mary Ann Rybak. He was raised and educated in Chicago and graduated from Tilden Technical High School with the class of 1940. After graduation, Michael joined the Polish Unit of the Royal Air Force and then went onto proudly serve his country as a member of the United States Army during the World War II era. On New Year's Day 1946 Michael married Winnie Whynacht in Chicago where they would make their home and raise a family.
Michael worked for Reynolds Aluminum as a millwright until he retired in 1992. He belonged to the Polish Club of Chicago and the Iris Club, and in his free time he enjoyed gardening and took great pride in his Iris and Roses. Michael also enjoyed music and playing the accordion. He was also a freelance artist and little league coach, but most of all a proud family man who cherished his time with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Winnie; two children: Michael Rybak, of Baraboo, WI and Wayne Rybak, of Valley Park, MO; three grandchildren: Deanna (Joe) Wood, Dana Rybak and Delora Rybak; sister-in-law, Muriel Zakeriasson; niece and nephew, Renee and Peter Mlot, and dear friends, Frank Hall and David Smith.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Haddy Rybak; brother, Theodore Rybak and brother-in-law, Gordon Whynacht.
A private graveside service with full military honors will be held at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.
Family and friends may sign the guest book, upload photographs or share Michael’s memorial page on social media by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com.
Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington.