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Ilona Kostka, 98, of Winneconne, died Thursday, June 1, 2023, at her home. Fulfilling her only wish that she should be able to finish her life in her own home that she loved so much.

Ilona was born December 13, 1924, in Hungary to the late Sandor and Ilona (Macsovits) Hernady. After World War II Ilona lived in Germany for almost 7 years before she was able to come to the United States in 1951. She worked as a housekeeper, factory worker, and for 6 years at Montgomery Ward in Chicago. In 1957 Ilona married George Kostka and they had two daughters. In the early years of their marriage every vacation was spent in Winneconne, and in 1962 the family made it their permanent home. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Winneconne.

Ilona is survived by her two daughters, Ildy Brockman, of Winneconne, and Ilona Rice, of Kewaunee; her grandchildren, Cara (David) Phillips, of Golden City, Missouri; Lindsay (Steve) Kane, of Seymour; Sara (Alec) Belling, of Denmark; and Billy (Megan) Rice, of Denmark; her great-grandchildren, James, Henry, and Adilyn Belling; Jaxon and Ava Kane; Colton, Weston, Harper, and Jace Rice; and her brother, Nick (Margit) Hernady, of Winneconne.

Along with her parents, Ilona was also preceded in death by her husband, George Kostka; and a son-in-law, David Rice.

A private family service will be held followed by burial at the Winneconne Cemetery.

Ilona’s family wishes to thank Deacon Paul Vidmar, Fr. Tom Long, and Tami Noffke from St. Mary’s for their prayers and visits. They also wish to thank the staff of Generations Hospice, and her care giver Angela, for the loving care given to Ilona.

Mueller Funeral Home-Winneconne is assisting the family. If you wish please submit online condolences to muellerfh.net.