**FLAG** **PHOTO** Edward Charles Sweigard, Jr. Age 82. Passed away peacefully into the arms of His Lord on Monday December 15, 2014 at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home. Born August 9, 1932 in Omaha, Nebraska to Edward Charles Sweigard Sr. and Mary Ann (Niksich) Sweigard. He grew up in Omaha, attending Creighton Prep High School, then Creighton University. After proudly serving in the Army he returned to Creighton to attend Law School, graduating in 1960. He was a member of the Nebraska Bar Association. On May 7, 1955, Ed married the love of his life, Maureen Ann Reeder, and they enjoyed 49 years together. Ed served as a Vice President and Trust Officer in the banking industry in DeKalb, IL, Joliet and Chicago. He retired in 1993 to care for his wife after she suffered a stroke. A wonderfully devoted husband, he cared for her in their home until she passed away in 2004. He enjoyed golf, his stamp and coin collections, coffee, smoking his pipe, singing, reading, traveling, the Chicago Bears, and especially spending time with his children and grandchildren. Surviving are his four children, Kenneth E. (Stephanie) Sweigard, Ruth A. (James) Sweigard-Colnar, Daniel J. Sweigard, and Eric C. Sweigard; three grandchildren, Kaitlin and Jared Sweigard and Joseph Edward Colnar; his sister, Helen Buglewicz; his brother, William Sweigard; and many nieces, nephews and dear friends. Preceded in death by his wife, Maureen Reeder Sweigard (May 10, 2004); two infant sons, Edward C. Sweigard III and Richard C. Sweigard; his parents; and his sister, Marcia Hardman. Thanks to the many devoted caregivers who worked with Ed over the past 5 years, especially Kris Ackerman, Ann Eckhorn, Josette Olsen and Rhiann Van de Bogart who made his last years more enjoyable. Funeral services for Edward Charles Sweigard, Jr. will be Saturday, January 3, 2015 at 11:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds, Joliet, to the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. Noon. Interment will be Monday in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery . Memorials in his name to the Joliet Chapter of Alzheimer’s Association, 850 Essington Road, Suite 200, Joliet, IL 60435 or Joliet Area Community Hospice, 250 Water Stone circle, Joliet, IL 60431 would be appreciated. Visitation Friday, January 2, 2015 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home. For additional information please call (815) 741-5500.
Edward Sweigard
Helen L. Filetti
Helen L. Filetti (nee Sefcik) – Passed away peacefully with her family by her side at the Joliet Area Community Hospice, Friday, December 19, 2014. Age 95. Survived by her two sons Francis (Marilynn) and Richard (Kathleen) Filetti; her five grandchildren Brent (Carrie) Filetti, Lisa (Matthew) Komar, Angela (Matthew) Powers, Mark and Cara Filetti; seven great- grandchildren Brendan, Brady, Camryn and Brooklyn Powers, Aidan, Gabriel and Maren Filetti. Preceded in death by her husband Alex R. Filetti, a son Terry Filetti. Born December 13, 1919 in Joliet to the late Anton and Theresa Filetti. She was one of seven children. Longtime parishioner with the Cathedral of St. Raymond’s and a supporter of Trinity Services. Helen was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her family. Funeral services for Helen will be from the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Road, on Monday, December 22, 2014 from 9:00 AM to the Cathedral of St. Raymond’s for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 9:30 AM. Interment Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials to Trinity Services will be appreciated. Visitation TODAY, Sunday from 3-7 PM.
Stephen Vargo
Stephen G. Vargo Age 89. Stephen died peacefully Wednesday, December 10, 2014 at his home with his family by his side. Born in Joliet, of Hungarian parents, and lived his entire life in Joliet, apart from years in the army. He was a decorated WWII U.S. Army Veteran, serving at the rank of Corporal. Stephen was a graduate of the Chicago-Kent College of Law, Class of 1949. He also attended the University of Illinois and was a graduate of Joliet Junior College. He graduated of Joliet Township High School in 1942. He was admitted to practice law and became a member of both the Will County Bar Association and the Illinois State Bar Association since 1950. With the assistance of his wife Madelene, he maintained a solo law practice for over 55 years. His daughter, Diana, joined him in practice in 1989. At various times in his life, he held the following positions: Will County Sheriff’s Police Special Deputy, Certified Civil Defense Director, County Board of Supervisors and Will County Licensed Realtor. He was a member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church and St. Stephen’s Church. He was instrumental in the purchase of a building for the Hungarian Catholic Society of Joliet, which led to the creation of St. Stephen’s Church in 1950. He was a member of the following organizations: American Legion Post #1080, International Legal Fraternity of Phi Delta Phi, Ohio Athletic Club, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Will County Old Timers Baseball Association, and Joliet Rivals Club. Survived by his wife of 62 years, Madelene G. (nee Niznik) Vargo of Joliet, and eight children: Steve (Deb Dillon) Vargo of Canton, MI, Daniel (Judy Mark) Vargo of Naperville, Sharon (Howard) Nelson of Lincolnshire, Diana (Michael) Vargo-Lewandowski of Lockport, Jennifer (Randy) Hauser of Urbana, Elayne (Darran) Moxon of Naperville, Carolyn (Gary) Walker of St. Cloud, FL and Joseph G. (Sandy) Vargo of Farmington Hills, MI; and 18 grandchildren: Annie Ruehl and Joseph C. Vargo; Rebecca Nelson; Elizabeth Lewandowski; Hadley and Brooks Hauser; Nathaniel, Alexandra and Jessica Moxon; Stephen G., Bethany, Rachel, Emily and Amanda Walker; Jacob, Elena, Joseph A. and Madelene Q. Vargo; and numerous nephews and nieces including Angeline Bizzotti of Joliet. Preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Helen (nee Fulop) Vargo, originally from Sopron, Hungary; two brothers, Anthony Joseph and Francis; and one sister, Helen Bizzotti. Private funeral services for Stephen G. Vargo were held on Friday, December 19, 2014 at St. Paul the Apostle Church where a Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery with full military honors under the auspices of the United States Army. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church or Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated. For information: 815-741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com
Patricia McGuire
Patricia Lee McGuire (Harris) nee Lewis Age 66. At rest Friday, December 19, 2014 at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago after a brief illness. Born in Essex, IL, she spent most of her life in and around Joliet. Mrs. McGuire was until recently a flight attendant with Southwest Airlines and also worked for the (now defunct) Midway Airlines in the same role. Mrs. McGuire was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Lillian Marie (nee O’Reilley) Lewis; first husband, John F. Harris, Jr.; an uncle, James O’Reilley; and an aunt Florence Zeman. She is survived by her husband, former long-serving Illinois state representative, John C. “Jack” McGuire; two children, Lawrence Harris and Patricia (nee Harris) Marsden; her brother, Terry Lewis; and grandchildren, Lillian Harris, Nathan Harris and John Marsden. Funeral Services for Patricia Lee McGuire will be Monday, December 22, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation Today, Sunday, 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. For information: 815-741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com
Emily Paroubek
Emily A. Paroubek Age 83, of Seneca, IL, passed away peacefully, Sunday December 21, 2014 at the Morris Hospital. She was born February 8, 1931 to the late Johanna and Peter Zavojna in Chicago and had resided in the Midway Airport area until moving to Seneca 11 years ago. Beloved wife of 62 years to Norman Paroubek; loving mother of Nancy Paroubek and Bobby Paroubek. Preceded in death by her parents, three sisters, two brothers and one son, Ronald Paroubek (2008). As it was Emily’s wish, cremation rites will be accorded and her ashes will be buried privately at a later date in St. Mary Cemetery, Evergreen Park, IL. Memorials in her name to the American Diabetes Association would be appreciated.
Lee Baldridge
Lee Arthur Baldridge Age 65, of Joliet, at rest Friday, December 19, 2014 at Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center. Born September 2, 1949 in Greenville, MI to Lewis and Ruth (nee Nelson) Baldridge. Worked for Norwalk Company in Joliet, IL for seven years. Survived by his loving wife of 22 years, Susan Beth (nee Shuster); children, Scott (Lisa) Baldridge, Jason (Cheryl) Baldridge, Daniel Larson and Brandon (Julie) Larson; grandchildren, Olivia, Kimber, Nash, Autumn and Gray; brothers, Stan (Bonnie), Richard “Dick” (LouAnn), Ronnie, Roy (Esther), Tim (Shirley), John (Julee); sister, Mary (Ron) Steele; and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents; and sister-in-law, Carol. Funeral Services for Lee Arthur Baldridge will be held Saturday, December 27, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. As it was Lee’s wish, Cremation Rites will be accorded following the funeral services. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to Will County Humane Society or any local animal shelter of the donor’s choice would be appreciated. Visitation Saturday, 10:00 a.m. until the time of services at 1:00 p.m. For more information: (815) 741-5500 or visit his Book of Memories at www.fredcdames.com
Maxine Hubbs
Maxine Hubbs (nee Ancell) Formerly of Quincy, IL, passed away unexpectedly, Tuesday, December 23, 2014 in Joliet, IL at the age of 85. Maxine was born and raised in Quincy, IL and attended Quincy schools. A member of the former Grandview Baptist Church, where she was a Sunday School teacher for many years. Former owner and operator of Maxine’s Beauty Shop. An avid reader, sewer and bowler, bowling with several teams over the years. Preceded by her loving husband, Robert (2005); parents, Charles and Faye (Stark) Ancell; three sisters, Louise Meyer, Irene Bosse and Jackie Wiewel and one brother, Robert Ancell. Surviving are her two children, Joyce (Paul) Wagner of Morris, IL and Gary (Karen) Hubbs of Urbana, IL; two grandchildren, Matthew (Dawn) Wagner and Aaron (Kimberly) Wagner; five great-grandchildren, twins, Jordan and Taylor, Reed, Brooke and Paige Wagner; two sisters, June (Loren) Weiwel of Quincy and Janice (late K.O.) Walton of Georgetown, S.C.; one brother, Ronald (Sue) Ancell of Mendon, IL and numerous nieces and nephews also survive. A prayer service for Maxine Hubbs will be held Friday, December 26, 2014 5 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 1201 W. Route 6 at Deerpath Drive, Morris, IL. Private interment in Greenmount Cemetery, Quincy, IL. Visitation Friday 3 p.m.until time of services. A public memorial service will be held in Quincy, Il at a later date. For information, (815) 942-5040
Ruth Tessiatore
Ruth Tessiatore (nee Myers) Age 93. At rest Monday, December 22, 2014 at Alden Estates of Shorewood. Born June 6, 1921 in Joliet, she was the daughter of Ralph and Rose (Lehner) Myers. Ruth was a graduate of Joliet Township High School and was a founding member of St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church and the Paulites. She was also a member of the Joliet Lioness Club and a founding member of the Neighborhood Watch Program of the City of Joliet. She married John Tessiatore, and he preceded her in death on April 3, 2000. She was also preceded by a son, John “Jack” Tessiatore; her parents; three brothers, Ralph Myers, Harold (Lois) Myers and Glen (Eleanor) Myers; one sister, Myrtle (Laverne) Richards; a sister-in-law, Caroline (David) Maltby; and a brother-in-law, Bernard (Leona) Tessiatore. Surviving are one son, Thomas (Joyce) Tessiatore; grandchildren, Kristine (Felipe) Piniero, Brian Tessiatore and Robert Tessiatore; two great-grandchildren, Nicolas and Tessa Piniero; one sister, Anita (Robert) Mitchell; one brother-in-law, Richard (Beverly) Tessiatore; and her nieces and nephews, Dan Tessiatore, Barb and Jim Huey, Nancy and Joe Dyer, Kim and Jeff Tessiatore, Mary and Bob Tessiatore, Sue Hearne, Sally and Mike Kapp, Cindy and Larry Blatt, Bob Mitchell, Jr. and Bradley Mitchell. The family would like to thank her devoted caregivers, Lorna Ube and Elizabeth Dyer, Dr. Bhavesh Gandhi, and everyone at The Timbers of Shorewood where she made her home for the past three years. Funeral Services for Ruth Tessiatore will be Monday, December 29, 2014 at 10:15 a.m. from the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church for Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Entombment Woodlawn Memorial Park. Memorials to Joliet Area Community Hospice or St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church would be appreciated. Visitation MONDAY MORNING, 9:00 a.m. until time of services at the funeral home. For information: 815-741-5500 or visit her Book of Memories at www.frecdames.com
Nathaniel Justin Fox
Nathaniel J. Fox “Nate” – His life was tragically taken on Monday, December 22, 2014. Age 37. Survived by his loving parents Roy and Marilyn (nee Langley) Fox; two brothers Matthew J. (Rhonda) Fox and Nicholas J. (Jennifer) Fox; niece and nephew Braden and Adalyn and step-niece Kirsten and step-nephew Alex; his girlfriend Carlie Fraley; an aunt Sheri Hale, two uncles Rick (Kathy) Fox and Kenneth Allan (Janice) Langley. His cousins Ben (Katie) Fox, Josh Fox, Kara Hale, Kali Fox, Caroline “Carrie” Langley. Many, many, many devoted friends also survive. Preceded in death by his paternal grandparents LeRoy and Phyllis Fox and maternal grandparents Allen and Frances Langley. Nate began his basketball career in his first pair of gym shoes and his Jordan Jammer. He continued his love of basketball and football in grade school and with Plainfield High School. Nate received a full ride scholarship for basketball to Boston College, then transferred to the University of Maine where he graduated with his degree in communication. He went on to play 13 years of professional basketball throughout Europe. Ending his career by winning the Belgium Cup. Nate was an avid Chicago Sport fan, Bears, Cubs and Bulls. He enjoyed camping, fishing, grilling, and was the best at throwing the “Fox Fest”. Funeral services will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Road, on Monday, December 29, 2014 at 11:00 AM. Interment Woodlawn Memorial Park. Visitation Sunday from 2:00-7:00 PM.
Frederick M. Hummel
passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side, at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home, Tuesday, December 23, 2014. Age 73 years. Survived by his wife Judith Hummel (nee Chelini). Two daughters Ms. Marjorie (Mark Lord) Hummel and Mrs. Roberta (Todd) Casagrande all of Channahon. Two grandchildren Matthew and Jaclyn Casagrande. His sister Mrs. Florence (William) Labbe of Glenview, IL. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Preceded in death by his parents, Michael and Anna Hummel. Fred was born August 20, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois. He has lived in Channahon for the last 15 years. Fred was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force. He retired from Commonwealth Edison in 1997as a shift advisor. Member and Past President of the Joliet Shriners, member of Matteson Lodge No. 175 A.F. & A.M. Masonic Lodge, Joliet Elks Lodge #300 and American Legion Post #43 of Mountain View, Arkansas. Memorial services will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, Wednesday, December 31, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. Rev. Douglas E. Hoag officiating. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Memorials to Leukemia Lymphoma Society and Joliet Area Community Hospice will be appreciated. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Hal Story
Hal David Story Age 73, of Joliet, IL, died Friday, December 19, 2014 at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center. He was born December 1, 1941 to the late Phyllis (nee Banks) and Carl Story in St. Joseph, MI where he was raised, educated and had resided until 1976 when he moved to Bolingbrook, IL. Beloved father of Paul Story of St. Joseph, MI and the late Michael David Story; dear brother of Jean Blackman of Tampa, FL, Fred (Betty) Story of Osceola, IN, Don (Pamela) Story of San Diego, CA, Mary Story of London, Ontario Canada and the late James Story. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and his former wife, Debra Story of Joliet. Hal, a retired engineer and former electrician, was a member of B.A.R.S. aiding first responders in weather disasters. He enjoyed being a Ham Radio operator and helping people during crisis. Tinkering with computers was a favorite pastime. As it was Hal’s wish, Cremation Rites will be accorded and his ashes will be interred privately at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Hal’s name to your local Heart, Kidney, Lung or Diabetes Association would be appreciated. For information 815-741-5500 or www.fredcdames.com
Ruby I. Morrison
Passed away at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center, Sunday, December 21, 2014. Age 92 years. Survived by two daughters Barb (Robert) Gutierrez and Pat Vitte’. Eleven grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. A step-daughter Ann (Michael) Koch and a step-son Gary (Nancy) Morrison. Also numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Ruben and Leona Smith, Five brothers Ben, Glen, Ernie, Peter Smith and John Mathis. Her first husband John E. Rauworth (1971), a son John A. Rauworth, grandson John Rauworth. Her second husband Jean Morrison. Brothers-in-law Ben, William and Charles Rauworth. Sisters-in-law Verna (Fred) Oetter, Esther (Stanley) Kegley, Mildred (Bervie) Scott, Edith (Ben) White, Mary (Arthur) Petersen and Lena (Michael) Kelly, Ruby was active in the PTA at Chaney Monge Grade School and a Girl Scout Leader. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse then joined her husband Jean working on their farm. Ruby enjoyed golf, bowling, gardening, playing euchre and listening to Bob’s jokes. She was born in Streator and lived in Crest Hill, Lisbon, Morris and most recently The Timbers in Shorewood. A memorial service will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Rd., Friday, December 26 at 11:00 A.M. Rev. Matt Robinson officiating. Memorials to Smile Train will be appreciated. Visitation will be held Friday from 9:00 A.M. until time of services at 11:00 A.M.
John McElroy
John McElroy, age 89, late of Plainfield, and formerly of Lake in the Hills and Elmhurst, died December 24, 2014. He was born April 27, 1925 in Chicago, and was the son of Dominic and Latice “Lottie” (Kulchek) McElroy. He was a World War II veteran of the United States Army serving with the 723rd. Railway Operating Battalion. John retired from the City of Chicago where he worked many years as a sanitation worker. Survived by his three children, Mike (Jill) McElroy, Sandra (Wayne) Papciak, and Jeff (Denise) McElroy; and six grandchildren. Cremation rites have been accorded and a memorial service will be held at a later date.
Mary Dovers
Mary Kay Dovers Age 67. At rest on December 23, 2014 with family by her side. Survived by three sons Michael and Erik Dovers and Kristafer (Karen) Adelman; one sister Patricia (Donald) Nolan; one half-sister Samantha (Stanley) Duba; one half-brother John Pittman; and two grandchildren Milly and Adam Adelman. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews andl longtime family friend Jimmy Dixon. Private family services will be held.
William D Scaperdine
Passed away suddenly, Sunday, December 21, 2014, surrounded by his loving family. Bill was born on September 30, 1934 in Chicago, Illinois. Age 80 years old. Survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Patricia “Trish” (Gura) Scaperdine, his cherished daughters, Natalie (Kurtis) Storey and family, Zachary and Alexandra and Angela (Paul) Krumpoch and family, Julie and Tyler. Dear sister Doris Glover and sister-in-law Rosemary Scaperdine. Several beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and very special friends also survive. Preceded in death by his parents James and Dorothy (Strum) Scaperdine, grandson Jacob Storey, brothers Raymond, Johnny and Robert Scaperdine and brother James Dean. Bill was a meat cutter for 45 years. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandpa. Veteran of the United States Army. Funeral services will be held from the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home, 2320 Black Rd., Monday, December 29, at 11:15AM to the Cathedral of St. Raymond for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 11:30 AM. Interment Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery. Visitation Sunday from 2 to 7 PM.
James Sopinski
James D.Sopinski “Jim” Age 79. Born on July 14, 1935 and passed into God’s hands on December 23, 2014 of pancreatic cancer. His final year was difficult–after falling and fracturing several cervical vertebrae early in 2014, he faced major surgery to stabilize his neck and then further surgery in an attempt to eradicate the cancer. He fought long and hard in his battle for life. He was preceded in death by his father, John D. “Jack” Szopinski; his mother, Sadie (Amshl) Szopinski; his brother, Richard J. Szopinski; his sister-in-law, Lorraine (Burda) Szopinski and his nephew, Robert J. “Bob” Duranto. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn (McDonald) Sopinski, with whom he shared his life for the past 31 years. He is also survived by his former wife and close friend, Donna K. (Williamson) Szopinski-Amato and their five cherished children, James A. (Linda) Szopinski of Milan, TN, Daniel D. (Rita) Szopinski of Pembroke Pines, FL, Julie A. (David) Weisbecker of Waconia, MN, David J. (Donna) Szopinski of Yorkville, IL and Joseph D. (Naomi) Szopinski of Plainfield, IL; two stepsons, Mark M. McDonald of Las Vegas, NV and Heath A. McDonald of Wonder Lake, IL; 16 grandchildren; a sister, Beverly (Jack) Duranto; a niece; Kathy Duranto-Huebner, and one nephew, Jack (Terry) Duranto, Jr. He grew up in the Cheney neighborhood in Crest Hill and spoke warmly of his happy childhood. He maintained friendships with many of his boyhood buddies over the years and the family enjoyed listening to his stories of their youthful exploits. Jim attended Lockport High School and graduated with the Class of 1953. As often as possible, he attended reunion functions and enjoyed visiting with old friends from school days. He attended Lewis University and was so proud when two of his many grandchildren elected to carry on that tradition. He loved sports, but golf was his passion and he played often and well. Jim’s career began as a design engineer with Philips Control and then with ITT telecommunications, where it expanded into leadership roles in the Operations and Marketing of various telecommuncations equipment. Among his unique contributions with ITT in this field were the design and patent of the first Toll Ticketing Telephone System for a major U.S. Air Force Base in Nevada and the marketing and installation of large PABX systems in such places as the Bonaventure Hotel in Los Angeles, large facilities in Moscow, Taiwan and many more. He then moved to Rockwell International Telecommunications, where he led the successful placement of their massive Automatic Call Distribution Systems into service in many U.S. Government facilities across the United States. After retiring from corporate life, Jim and a partner purchased three ITT Telecommunications sales and maintenance branches located in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, MD and Harrisburg, PA. Jim served as President of this new company, Americom, and worked there (in the Washington office) until his final retirement in 1998, when he and his wife returned home to Plainfield, IL Funeral Services for James D. Sopinski will be Saturday, December 27, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. Cremation Rites will be accorded following services. Visitation Saturday, 3-7 p.m. Donations may be made in Jim’s name to the Professional Golf Association, 100 Avenue of the Champions, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418 to assist underpriviledged children in learning the sport of golf, or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 to help seriously ill children regain their health. For information: 815-741-5500 or visit his Book of Memories at www.fredcdames.co
Virginia M Tapella
(nee Faletti) Age 94, passed away peacefully on Friday December 26, 2014 at Presence St. Joseph’s Medical Center. Born in Joliet on July 18, 1920 she was a life-long resident. She was an active member of the Church of St. Anthony, serving as a Lector and Eucharist Minister for many years. She was a member of the CCW of the Church of St. Anthony and also was named Woman of the Year for the parish. She was a proud life-time member and past president of the Ladies Auxillary of Stone City Post VFW # 2199. Virginia and her husband, George T. Tapella founded the Tapella Funeral Home in 1948 and she worked tirelessly assisting with the funeral home operations for over 50 years. She will be remembered by the many families she served assisting at wakes and visitations at the funeral home. Preceded in death by her husband, George T. Tapella (2000); her loving parents, Peter J. and Mary V. (nee Menietti) Faletti and her dearest sister and best friend, Mary Eileen DeChecko. Proud mother of three sons, Thomas G. (Faith) Tapella, Richard J. (Lynn) Tapella and Rev. Joseph J. Tapella; loving grandma to Thomas A. (Nancy) Tapella and Bryan J. (Theresa) Tapella; fond great-grandma to Nathan, Jake, Arya Tapella and Joseph Crosetto. Also survived by her brother-in-law, John Joseph (late, Mary Eileen) DeChecko, nieces and several cousins. Visitation for Virginia M. Tapella will be held at the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home (Richard J. Tapella, Funeral Director) 2320 Black Road, Joliet on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 from 3 to 7 PM. Virginia will lie-in-state at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus on Wednesday, December 31, 2014 from 10:00 am until a concelebrated mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am. Entombment Resurrection Catholic Cemetery Mausoleum in Romeoville. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Virginia’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org/ways-to-help) would be greatly appreciated.
Ralph MacDonald
Ralph A. MacDonald Age 63, of Rockdale, passed away suddenly, Friday, December 26, 2014 at his home. Ralph was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Surviving are his beloved wife, Karen (Hrebec) MacDonald; one son, Matthew MacDonald; one daughter, Amy Frickey; one granddaughter, Isabelle Larsen; and one brother, John J. MacDonald. Preceded by his parents and two sisters. A visitation for Ralph A. MacDonald will be held Tuesday, December 30, 2014 from 4-6 p.m. at Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet. Cremation rites will be accorded following the visitation.
Mary T. Manno
nee Ambrosio) Age 92, passed away on Sunday, December 21, 2014 at Rosewood Care Center. Born in Joliet on January 27, 1922. She was employed by U.S. Steel and later at Joliet Central High School Cafeteria. Mary and her family were founding members of St. Mary Magdalene Church. Member of the CCW of St. Mary Magdalene and was named Woman of the Year in 1984. She served as a Room Mother for the school and was named to the St. Mary Magdalene Wall of Honor in 1999. Mary loved flowers, arranging, baking, cooking, gardening, sewing and crocheting. Mary was married to Joseph Michael Manno on May 12, 1946 and Joe preceded her in death in 2009. She was also preceded in death by her parents, John and Catherine Ambrosio , one sister, Josephine (late, James) Pate and by numerous sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law. Survived by two daughters, Angeline (Richard) Burke and Catherine Riblon; three grandsons, Timothy (Lucy) Burke, Craig (Jenn) Burke and Matthew (Sarah) Riblon; five great-grandchildren, Cassidy Burke, Harrison Burke, Alexander Burke, Aiden Burke and Brooklyn Riblon. Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Funeral Services will be held from the Carlson-Holmquist-Sayles Funeral Home 2320 Black Road on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 at 9:15 am to St. Mary Magdalene Church for a mass at 10:00 am. Interment Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Visitation Monday, Dec. 29th from 2 to 7 pm. The family would like to thank the staff of Rosewood Care Center and Joliet Area Community Hospice for their wonderful care and concern during Mary’s stay. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Mary’s name to St. Mary Magdalene Church or Joliet Area Community Hospice would be appreciated.
Duane E. Wakeman
Passed away suddenly, Saturday, December 27, 2014. Age 86. Survived by his loving wife of 63 ½ years Eunice E. (nee Nordmeyer) Wakeman; five children Randy Wakeman, Sue Bea (Bruce) Wright, Brian (Michelle) Wakeman, Kevin Wakeman and Keith (Ann) Wakeman. Five grandchildren Amanda, Joshua (Rudy), Jack, Sam and Joe Wakeman. Two sisters Joyce Harrod and LaFerne (Gene) Foster. Several nieces and nephews also survive. Preceded in death by his parents Earl and Beatrice (nee Tuttle) Wakeman. Longtime member of Our Savior Lutheran Church, where he served as an Elder for over 40 years and a chairman for two years. Member of the Shorewood Lions Club, serving as the District Governor (1990-1991) and received the Lions Melvin Jones Award in 1992. Volunteered at Sunny Hill Rehabilitation Center. He was an Election Judge with Eunice for over 25 years, which was held in their garage. Retired from Commonwealth Edison after 39 years. Duane enjoyed hunting but really enjoyed Mission Trips with his wife. Lying in state at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 1910 Black Road, on Tuesday, December 30, 2014 from 9:30 AM until the time of services at 10:00 AM. Interment Evergreen Cemetery in Chebanse, IL. Memorials to Our Savior Lutheran Church or the Shorewood Lions Club will be appreciated. Visitation will be held Monday, December 29th at Our Savior Lutheran Church from 3:00-8:00 PM.