April Traskell

Age 75 of Chicago and a resident of Prairie Green of Dixie Crossing in Chicago Heights, passed away Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Franciscan Health in Dyer, Indiana.

Born on April 18, 1949, in Chicago, April Louise was a daughter of Ralph and Gladys (Lobsinger) Cerda. She was raised on the southeast side of the city and graduated from Bowen High School with the Class of 1967.

A devoted homemaker, April also worked for many years in the service industry, always greeting those she encountered with warmth and kindness. Later, she moved to Mesa, Arizona, where she found great fulfillment as a Transportation Aid for the Mesa School District, assisting special needs children until her well-earned retirement.

April was a woman of many passions. Her love of music varied from Country to Motown, being particularly fond of Neil Diamond, and she could often be found seeking out a bargain at flea markets and thrift shops. She also had a deep appreciation for art and loved visiting museums, drawing inspiration from the beauty and creativity she encountered. A true adventurer at heart, April created lasting memories over the years with her love for travel, particularly in the summer months. She also cherished the great outdoors, finding joy in fishing, hiking, canoeing, and camping.

In her later years, April found solace in crafts, coloring, and the friendly competition of bingo. But beyond her hobbies and interests, it was her kindness and generosity that truly defined her. Known for her selflessness, April was a proud mother and a second mother and grandmother to many others, offering her love and care without hesitation. Those close to her, including the many residents and staff of Prairie Green, considered her family, and she was blessed to have so many wonderful people in her life, especially in her later years.

April will be remembered for her giving heart, her warm spirit, and the deep love she had for those around her. In her passing, she leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and the importance of family — both by blood and by choice. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her loving son, John Skylas of Chicago Heights; two grandchildren: Richard and Evelyn; one sister, Patricia; one brother, Joseph and her former husband, Louis Skylas.

April was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, William; her former husband, Robert Traskell and her loving companion, Jack Mitchell.

Per April’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

The family will receive friends for a memorial visitation at Grace City Church, 3801 Grand Boulevard in East Chicago, Indiana on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until time of memorial service 11:30 a.m. Pastor C.J. Suttles will officiate, and April will be laid to rest at a later date in Mesa, Arizona.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share April’s memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington, Illinois. (815-476-2181)