Obituaries
WEST PEORIA-Sister Mary Virginia Butkovich, 93, a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception, died at 5:40 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, 2011, at Mother of Peace Home, West Peoria. She was the daughter of Fred and Agatha (Sepich) Butkovich, Canton, IL Sister entered the congregation on September 9, 1933, and was in her 75th year of religious profession. Sister taught music at St. Mary’s School, Peru, and Sacred Heart School, Moline. In 1951, Sister returned to Immaculate Conception Convent, Peoria, where she served in many capacities including teacher of those in formaton; liturgist, organist and archivist. She worked for the Office of Catholic Education from 1978-79. She served as president of her community from 1967-1977 and was vice-president from 1985-89. In addition to the Franciscan sisters with whom she shared her life, Sister is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be Tuesday, April 5, 2011, at Immaculate Conception, 2408 West Heading Avenue, West Peoria, 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 7:00 p.m. by Rev. Lawrence Zurek, O.F.M. Burial will be at St. Mary’s Cemetery on Wednesday, April 6, 2011, 9:00 a.m. Wright & Salmon Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Retirement Fund of the Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception. Tributes and condolences may be submitted to www.wrightandsalmon.com