Vilim Family’s Legacy of Giving

All stood and glanced at the sky as they saw their white helium balloons rise to the heavens. That was the grand finale of a prayer service the Vilim family held at Our Lady of the Lake Convent on Tuesday, December 11, 2018 on the one-year death anniversary of their mother, Aileen, a long-time friend, supporter, and Associate of the Sisters of Divine Providence. Surrounded by 20 friends, including Sister Charlene Wedelich, CPD and the presider, Rev. David Kalert, OMI, the Vilims, Loretta, Mary Anne, and Patrick, gathered at Our Lady of the Lake grotto area where a bench bearing a marker with their beloved parents’ names was dedicated in September, 2018.

Aileen and her husband, Herb, both graduates of Our Lady of the Lake University, were very involved in assisting the university and Sisters whenever and in whatever they could. Now, their children continue their legacy of giving. The Vilim family came together again on the grounds of Our Lady of the Lake to honor their parents and their dedication to the Sisters and their ministries. Their matching donation for the bench dedication back in September helped raise close to $20,000 for the Congregation of Divine Providence.

Prior to concluding the service, a favorite song of the Vilims,“When Irish Eyes are Smiling,” was sung. Family and friends wrote a message to Aileen and/or to any deceased loved one on the balloons and with joyful hearts looking up to a clear blue sky set them free.