Evelyn L. Maruska, 65

Born: Oct. 26, 1947

Died: Nov. 19, 2012

Evelyn L. Maruska, 65, of Dowagiac, passed away at her son’s home on Nov. 19, 2012.

Evelyn was born on Oct. 26, 1947, to the late James and Elizabeth Ballard in Blytheville, Ark.

She worked at Borgess-Lee Memorial Hospital for 10 years, owned Evelyn’s Answering Service for 13 years, owned Spookniks Ice Cream and worked at Steinmann Shell for five years.

When she wasn’t working, Evelyn enjoyed taking care of and spending time with her grandchildren, who brought her great happiness.

She also enjoyed spending time at the casino and playing bingo.

Evelyn frequently spent time at her son’s restaurant, helping him in the kitchen.

She touched the lives of many people and will be very missed by her friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, brother Raymond Ballard and sister Catherine Pickert.

Evelyn is survived by: her children, Brian (Kellie) Maruska of Dowagiac and Elizabeth (Robert) Furiasse of Bridgeview, Ill.; and her grandchildren, Kaylee Furiasse, Maxwell Furiasse, Emma Fanin, Seth Fanin, and her soon-to-be-born grandson, Evan Maruska.

In keeping with Evelyn’s wishes she has been cremated and will be interred at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.

Those wishing to upload a photo or leave a message of condolence for the family may do so on the Brown Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Niles website at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com or on its Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/BrownFuneralHomeNiles.