Dalia Zilinskas (nee Zickus)

Our loving mother and “čiute” passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025 at 87 years old.

Born on April 20, 1938, in Kaunas, Lithuania, was the first-born daughter of the late Juozas and Antanina  In 1944, during World War II, her family immigrated to Germany. In 1949 at age 11, she and her family emigrated to the United States settling in the Marquette Park area. After marriage, Dalia and her growing family moved to Hickory Hills, Illinois where they resided in their home for 47 years.

Dalia  nee Zickus was a devoted wife of the late Valentine Zilinskas for 65 years. Loving mother to Paul (Laura), Mark (Michele), and Karina (Ray) whom she called her “greatest accomplishment.” Dalia adored hergrandchildren Taylor (Zachary) with great granddaughters Quinn and Wren; Jaclyn, Aaron (Megan) with great-grandson Dean; Sydney, Blake, Luke, Natalia and Lidia. She also leaves behind her two younger sisters Nijole Biliunas and Irene Bandera.

Most people knew her as “Dolly” and in the Lithuanian community she was known as “Stella.” She possessed a deep love for her family and friends. Alongside being a fantastic cook and gardener, she enjoyed simple fun. She was a member of the Lithuanian Scouts, where she made many of her closest friends. Dalia participated in several bowling leagues and valued her bingo nights, lottery scratch offs and slot machines. She was one lucky lady. She was a dedicated hair stylist and a successful entrepreneur, owning Dalia’s Beauty Salon in Marquette Park and Mirage Beauty Salon in Hickory Hills. She held a true passion for her profession, continuing to do hair for her clients well into her mid-80s. She will be very missed.

Services will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025 for both Valentine and Dalia Zilinskas, 10:00 a.m.  mass St. Patricia Church 9000 S 86th Ave, Hickory Hills, IL Private Interment at St. Casimir Lithuanian Cemetery.