03/10/2026
Nina Aholec, born on May 15, 1941, in Belarus, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Elk Grove Village, Illinois. She leaves behind a legacy of unwavering devotion to family, faith, and community.
Nina’s remarkable life journey began as her family fled the devastation of World War II, moving from Belarus to Germany when she was a young girl, before ultimately settling in Brazil, where Nina spent her formative years. At the age of 16, the family relocated to the United States. Nina embraced her new life with determination and grace, immersing herself in English language classes and quickly adapting to the vibrant culture around her. She fondly remembered her evenings spent watching "American Bandstand," where she discovered the rhythms of American dance and music, developing a particular fondness for Tom Jones and Engelbert Humperdinck.
In 1959, Nina met her future husband, Pawlo, at church, and their love story unfolded with sweetness and devotion. Their union blossomed into a beautiful marriage, where they nurtured a family that would become the heart of Nina's life. After her marriage, Nina attended Vogue Beauty School, and became a gifted hairdresser, working part-time primarily from home while skillfully balancing her work with the joys of raising her children: Sonia, Anna, Nick and Nina. Her multilingual skills, earned from a lifetime living in diverse cultures, also allowed her the opportunity to work as an interpreter for a Portuguese gentleman, showcasing her versatility and openness to the world around her.
An array of hobbies and interests complemented Nina's perfectionism. She was an excellent seamstress, often crafting clothing for her children; an exceptional hostess and cook known for her beautiful ambiances and delicious culinary delights; and a brilliant baker, known for her famous kolackies. Food and family were definitely her love languages. She also took great pride in her gardening, nurturing flowers and plants with the same care she extended to her family.
A devout member of the Orthodox faith, Nina was a long-time parishioner of St. George Belarusian Orthodox Church in Chicago, where she dedicated countless hours baking for church events, reinforcing her deep-seated belief in community and service. Nina's generous and kind-hearted nature touched the lives of many, as she was always available to lend a hand and offer support to anyone in need. Her children were her pride and joy, and her love for them was unconditional and fierce-a legacy that will carry on through them.
Nina is survived by her loving children Sonia (Alex) Sidorowych, Anna (Joey) Rizzo, Nick (Barb), and Nina Nichols; her cherished grandchildren, to whom she was known as Baba Nina: Alexander, Analia (Betty), Liza (Ken), Christina (Joe), Michael, Tania, Tessa, Michael, and Alexander; her treasured brother, Tolha Rogalevich; and her dear nephews and niece: Michael and Gina Rogalevich and George (Connie) and Nick (Linda) Kanagin.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pawlo Aholec Jr.; adored granddaughter, Vanessa Nichols; her devoted parents, Ivan and Anna V. Rogalevich; fond brothers, Wasyl and Michael Rogalevich; and dearest aunt and uncle, Alexandra (Roman) Newmerzhycky.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM with a Panakhyda at 7:00 PM at The Oaks Funeral Home, 1201 E. Irving Park Road in Itasca, Illinois. A Funeral Service will take place on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 9:30 AM, also at The Oaks Funeral Home and officiated by Rev. Michael Pasieka. Interment will follow at Elmwood Cemetery in River Grove, Illinois.
Nina Aholec's contributions to her family and community will forever be cherished, and her memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.
