DAINA KIZILBASH

Daina Kizilbash of DeKalb, Illinois, died on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Kishwaukee Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Germany to Latvian parents, Daina's mother and father left their homes in Latvia to escape the Soviet occupation. They found refuge in Germany, where they met and eventually married. At age three, Daina moved to Nebraska, with her parents and her sister, Inta.

Daina pursued a degree at the University of Nebraska, where she met her husband, Dr. Askari "Cary" Kizilbash. The couple married and later moved to DeKalb, Illinois. Daina earned her bachelor's degree in child development from Northern Illinois University, while Cary taught marketing. The pair became actively involved in the NIU community, and Daina developed lifelong friendships by participating in the University Women's Club.

Daina initially worked with children in a classroom setting, but her greatest joy came from motherhood. She lovingly raised her son, Jeffery, and daughter, Lia, devoting her attention to creating enriching, play-based educational experiences for them. Daina later shared that same enthusiasm with her grandchildren, Collin and Reid, relishing every moment of conversation and play.

A longtime employee of The Junction Bookstore and Borders, Daina had a gift for bringing stories to life. She honored each moment, big or small, and had a remarkable ability to connect with others, always eager to learn about their lives.

Traveling the world with her family brought Daina immense pleasure and appreciation for other cultures, particularly her cherished visits to Paris. She often traveled there with her sister, and in 2024, on what would be her final trip, she shared unforgettable moments in the city with her grandchildren.

Daina's generous spirit, deep love for children, and nurturing character will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She is survived by her son, Jeffery Kizilbash (Brenda Lee Johnson) of Westmont; daughter, Lia (Brian) Gillet of Sycamore; and sister, Inta Staklis of Troy, Michigan. Most proudly a loving "Ga" to her two grandchildren. She is reunited with her husband, Askari "Cary" Kizilbash.

A gathering of friends and family will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, 2025, with a sharing of memories at 6:30 p.m. at Finch Funeral Home, 310 Oak St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115. A private family burial will take place on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Fairview Cemetery, DeKalb. Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center residents will receive a special invitation to remember Daina in the Oak Crest Chapel.

Daina loved flowers, enjoying their beauty and offering them delicate care. In memory of her fondness for them, flowers may be sent to the Finch Funeral Home on Thursday, April 24.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff of Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital for their compassionate care during Daina's final days. In lieu of flowers, donations to support Kishwaukee Hospital nurses can be made at https://tinyurl.com/DKizilbash in memory of Daina Kizilbash.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Finch Funeral Home, 310 Oak St. DeKalb, Illinois, 60115. For more information, call (815) 758-3841.