Pelagia “Pearl” Ostrowski, 102 of Valparaiso, IN, formerly of Knox, IN, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 16, 2025. She was born December 1, 1922, in Zerkow, Poland to the late Karol and Wiktoria (Szybiak) Roszykiewicz. Pearl came to America in 1949 and made her career with Derby Foods/Peter Pan Peanut Butter in Chicago. She lived in the southwest side neighborhood of Brighton Park in Chicago with her husband, Ted, until the opportunity to purchase a 5-acre farm in Knox, IN arose. Pearl loved life on the farm with her many chickens, ducks, turkeys, cats, and dogs, of which there was always at least one Chihuahua. She enjoyed spending time gardening, canning food, and cooking. Pearl had also been a member of St. Thomas Catholic Church in Knox, and the Polish National Alliance. She had a strong and spunky personality, and a fiery desire to accomplish anything she set her mind to. Pearl was deeply loved by her family and will be dearly missed.
Pearl is survived by her nephews: John (Stacey) Korycki, Stan (Helen) Korycki, and George (Callie) Korycki. She was preceded in death by her husband, Tadeusz “Ted” Ostrowski, and her parents.
Pearl will privately be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery in Chicago.
GUESTBOOK
My sincere condolences to the Korycki family. Thank you Johnny for being there for "Aunt" Pearl. I remember “Aunt” Pearl fondly. Many good memories, especially of visiting her at her mini farm in Indiana with my Mom. She always had many stories she would share, as well as her philosophy on life. It was fun to visit her but you did have to behave as she could be very stern. I always enjoyed our visits, the many animals (chickens, ducks, and more); always a few dogs. I think her Chihuahuas were sometimes more protective than the outdoor dogs! She was very strong, spunky and fiery, as stated; someone to admire and I will cherish my memories. -Judy Potaczek
I enjoyed & loved Aunt Pearl. She was very smart, kind, & strong person. I remember how excited she was, when she finally moved permanently to her beloved farm. I also know she loved growing vegetables so much. I think she'll grow them in heaven too! -Joanie Potaczek
