Eileen (Zink) Hughes, 76, of Stockton, IL, passed away peacefully at home following a courageous two-year battle against cancer.

Eileen was born November 21, 1946 at their family home in Massbach, IL to Alvena (Albrecht) and William (Cy) Zink. She married Ronald Hughes on May 20, 1967 at St. John Lutheran Church in Massbach.

Known by many as "the cake lady," Eileen has made countless, beautifully decorated and tasty cakes over the past 50+ years. She enjoyed using her many talents to make others happy and provide: cooking, baking, knitting, quilting, and sewing. In the process, she has also inspired and taught many her skills, so they, too, could enjoy them. She was an active member at St. John Lutheran Church, volunteering as treasurer in past years and busy helping with the quilting group who made more than 1,200 fabric masks during the pandemic and collectively makes about 100 quilts annually for Hospice and veterans' organizations.

Eileen worked at what is now known as Citizens State Bank in Stockton as a customer service representative for 38 years before retiring in 2011.

Eileen leaves behind her husband of 55 years—Ron, their daughter Janelle (Steve) Keeffer of Galena, granddaughters Erin and Elyse Keeffer, her brothers Gerald (Carol) Zink, Norman (Karen Switzer) Zink, and Eugene, and beloved nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Alvena Zink. Eileen was also blessed that her neighbors—both in Yankee Hollow and Woodbine—have always been an extended part of her family.

Memorial services will be held at St. John Lutheran Church in Massbach (Elizabeth), IL on Friday, December 9. Visitation begins at 11:30 AM; Funeral service at 1:00 PM. Burial will be at St. John Lutheran Church Cemetery.

A memorial has been established in Eileen's memory. Condolences may be shared with her family at www.hermannfuneralhome.com.