Etta Grace (Lucas) Anleitner, 94 of Hebron, IN, formerly of Valparaiso, IN and Calumet Park, IL passed away Sunday, September 10, 2023. She was born April 17, 1929, in Chicago, IL to Frank and Mary Ellen (Maloney) Lucas. Etta graduated from Kelly High School in Chicago and was the first member of her family to do so. Over the years, she worked as a secretary for a Chicago-based plumbing company, as a cashier and department manager at Turn-Styles stores in both Dixie Square and Ford City Malls in Chicago, followed by many years as a cashier at Valparaiso University’s dining hall, where she was beloved by the students. Etta was also a member of Seven Holy Founders Catholic Church in Calumet Park, IL, and a parishioner of St. Paul Catholic Church in Valparaiso and St. Helen’s in Hebron. When she wasn’t busy working, going to church, or spending time with her family, Etta loved cheering for the Chicago Cubs.
On June 9, 1951, Etta married Joseph Anleitner, who preceded her in death in 2004. She is survived by their children: John (Maureen) Anleitner of Chesterton, Susan Anleitner of Hebron, Jayne (Michael Hicks) Baker of Valparaiso, and Mary Jo Anleitner of Thornton, CO; 7 grandchildren: Scott (Heidi), Amy (Jeramie), Mark (Lindsay), Jacob, David (Meghan), Allison, and Jessica; Great-grandchildren: Makenna, Cheyanne, Samantha, Addyson, Eli, Carter, Samuel, Lucas, and Conner; great-great grandson, Levi, along with a great-great granddaughter due in February 2024; as well as a treasure trove of beloved nieces, nephews, and their children. She was preceded in death by her grandson, Matthew; her parents; four brothers and two sisters.
A visitation will be held on Monday, September 18, 2023, from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. at St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Student Center, 1511 LaPorte Ave., Valparaiso, IN, with a funeral mass beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Angelcrest Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
