Celebrating the Life of Evelyn Tolpa Lisek: A Legacy of Music and Community

On March 11, Evelyn Tolpa Lisek of Gary marked her 100th birthday, surrounded by family and friends. Evelyn, a long-standing and active member of the Women’s Association of the Northwest Indiana Symphony Society (WANISS), passed away peacefully in Hobart on June 15. Founded in 1962, the organization was initially called the Women’s Association in Gary. Evelyn was a significant figure in the group, contributing her passion for music and community service.

Evelyn’s involvement with WANISS extended over five decades. In 1975, she participated in the decision to rename the organization and align it with the Volunteer Council of the League of American Orchestras. At the 54th Annual May Wine Brunch, she recounted attending the inaugural spring luncheon over fifty years ago. Her dedication to the arts was not limited to WANISS. Evelyn was a trained opera singer, performing on stages nationwide. Remarkably, she attended the Northwest Indiana Orchestra’s first concert on December 7, 1941, the same day as the Pearl Harbor attack.

According to WANISS President Tresa Redermacher, Evelyn remained engaged up to her final days, attending the Annual WANISS meeting on June 11. Her participation and unwavering support will be sorely missed.

Evelyn was born in Gary, Indiana, to Walter and Julia Tolpa. She graduated from Lew Wallace High School in 1944 and continued her education at MacMurray College, majoring in music. She married Henry Lisek in 1949, who predeceased her in 2000. Her musical talent was recognized early during her time at St. Hedwig Grade School, leading to further training at the Chicago Conservatory of Music. Evelyn excelled in various musical styles, singing in multiple languages, and even performed internationally.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Evelyn brought music and history to school children with Bicentennial and patriotic programs. Maestro Kirk Muspratt of the Northwest Indiana Symphony noted Evelyn’s consistent presence at concerts and referred to her as a cherished supporter of the orchestra.

Evelyn cherished her Polish roots, participating in choirs and performing during cultural observances. She was part of the Papal choir that sang for Pope John Paul II during his 1979 visit to Chicago. Her leadership extended to her roles in organizations like the Polish American Congress and the Polish Women’s Alliance.

Beyond music, Evelyn served as cantor at St. Joseph the Worker Parish for two decades, directing choral groups and engaging in community projects. The legacy she leaves behind is rich with arts, culture, and service.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Evelyn’s life on June 21 at Geisen-Pruzin Funeral and Cremation Services in Merrillville, with a subsequent service at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Hobart on June 22. Evelyn’s story reflects a lifetime dedicated to music, community, and family.

In addition to her legacy, Evelyn had a memorable moment when cast as an extra in the film “Road to Perdition,” sharing a scene with Tom Hanks and Paul Newman.

Surviving her are her children, Carolyn, Walter, Darlene Schmitt, and Kathryn, alongside numerous extended family members. Her life and work continue to inspire those who knew her.