Elizabeth Milligan (née Karpel)

Elizabeth “Betty” Milligan, née Karpel, age 95, of Joliet, passed away peacefully on October 16, 2026, just one week before her 96th birthday. She was born in Joliet to John and Margaret (nee Kuban) Karpel on October 23, 1930.

A devout Catholic, Betty was an active member of Ss.Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church and a member of the Ss. Cyril and Methodius Altar and Rosary Society. She was also a member of the Senior Citizens Association and valued the friendships and fellowship she found through her involvement in these communities.

Appreciating the simple pleasures in life, Betty was an avid reader, always up for a game of cards or bingo, and enjoyed working on crossword puzzles. Dessert was a priority and something Betty never skipped. Her sweet tooth perfectly reflects the sweet person that she was. Above all, the time Betty spent with family and friends were her favorite moments.

Betty treasured and cherished family get togethers to celebrate special occasions. One of her greatest joys was hosting holidays full of her delicious cooking and baking, and special long-lasting traditions.

Known for her kindness, loyalty, and listening ear, Betty was someone others could turn to for understanding and comfort. Her faithful heart, caringnature, and genuine interest was a gift in the lives of all who knew her.

Betty is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert; her sons, Mark and Paul; her parents, John and Margaret Karpel; and her siblings, Joseph (Marge), John (Shirley), Richard (Dorothy), Robert, Margaret (Joseph), Genevieve (Raymond), Agnes (Dave), Anna (Earl), Dorothy (Lee), and Mary Ann (Charles).

She is survived by her loving daughters, Karen (Patrick) Papesh and Joyce Pappas; her cherished grandchildren, Megan (Aaron) Kramer, Erin (Shane) O’Connell, Kelly (Devin) Whitehead, Kristin (Brett) Steinke, Jacqueline (Cole) Newberry, Elizabeth (Edward) Esbach, Stephanie (Patrick) Berg, and Joshua Mann; and her adored great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Brayden, Bryar, Adlee, Cal, Carsyn, Zara, and Jordan. She is also survived by her special sisters-in-laws, Rita Karpel and Charlyne Milligan, along with numerous nieces and nephews and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Family and friends are asked to meet at the church for a Mass of Christian burial that will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish - St Mary Magdalene Catholic Church, 201 S Briggs St, Joliet, IL. Burial will follow at SS Cyril Methodius Cemetery, 1860 Maple Rd, Joliet, IL 60432 (also referenced near Rt. 6 & Maple Rd, east of Briggs St.)