Richard J. Modell Funeral Home & Cremation Services Obituaries

Obituary Preview: Angel Shui Kwan Ho, a beacon of faith and gentle kindness, passed away peacefully on March 18, 2024, in LaGrange, Illinois. Born on March 8, 1958, in Hong Kong, Angel's journey through life was marked by her selfless devotion to her family, her fervent Christian faith, and her remarkable culinary skills that brought joy to all who knew her.Angel's life was one of dedication and love, a testament to her role as a great mother who selflessly did everything for her children. Her family was the centerpiece of her world, and she cherished every moment spent with them. The late Howard Ho, her beloved husband, shared a life filled with love and mutual respect with Angel until his passing. Together, they raised two wonderful children: Jinny (Steven) Hahn and Andrew (Eliana) Ho. Angel's joy was multiplied with the arrival of her grandsons, Aidan and Sean Hahn, who brought endless happiness and laughter into her life.Known for her sweet, gentle, and simple nature, Angel was the embodiment of kindness. Everyone who encountered her was touched by her warm and welcoming spirit. Her presence was a comforting embrace that drew people close and made them feel at home. Angel's sisters, Beth Ng and Karen Chan, will remember her as an irreplaceable light in their lives, a sister whose love knew no bounds.A great cook, Angel found pleasure in feeding everyone, ensuring that no one ever left her table hungry. Her culinary talents were a gift she shared generously, creating not just meals but memories that her family and friends will treasure forever.Angel's faith was the cornerstone of her life. A devoted and faithful Christian, she found strength and solace in her church community. Her unwavering belief guided her through life's challenges and inspired those around her. Angel's faith-filled nature was a source of comfort to many, and her commitment to living a Christ-centered life was evident in all her actions.Her legacy is one of pure love and selflessness. She was the epitome of a life well-lived, touching the hearts of everyone she met with her gentle soul. Angel Shui Kwan Ho will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she loved.Angel Shui Kwan Ho's journey on earth may have ended, but her impact is eternal. Her story is one of a gentle soul who walked in faith, loved without reserve, and left an indelible mark on the world. We take solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace, reunited with her dear husband Howard, and resting in the loving arms of her Savior.Angel’s life will be commemorated on Sunday, March 24, 2024 at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., where a visitation will be held from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. Guests are invited back to the funeral home on Monday, March 25, 2024 for a service at 10:00 am. A procession to Mt. Auburn Cemetery will immediately follow services.

Obituary Preview: Linda Susan Potempa, a beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully on March 17, 2024, at the age of 70 in Naperville, IL. Born on February 17, 1954, in Chicago, IL, Linda's life was marked by her unwavering dedication to her family, her passion for pets, and her love for music.Linda's journey began in Chicago where she grew into the compassionate and thoughtful person everyone knew. Her life was a testament to the power of love and the importance of nurturing relationships. Linda's marriage to Ronald E. Potempa was a partnership that blossomed with mutual respect and affection, providing a strong foundation for their family.As a devoted mother, Linda's heart was always full of pride for her children, Anthony Potempa, William (Heidi) Potempa, and Connie (David) Kruse. She nurtured their dreams, celebrated their successes, and offered comfort during their challenges. Her role as a grandmother to Theodore Potempa, Cole Kruse, and Noah Kruse was one she cherished deeply. Linda's eyes would light up with joy at the mention of her grandsons, and she relished every moment spent creating memories that would last a lifetime.In her professional life, Linda was a dedicated Childcare Provider at the YMCA. Her commitment to the well-being and development of every child in her care earned her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and the families she served. Linda's gentle nature and patience made her a favorite among the children, and she left a lasting impact on many young lives.Linda's sister, Louise Laport, shared a special bond with her that was nurtured through shared experiences and an unspoken understanding that only siblings can have. The two of them shared countless moments of laughter and support, standing by each other through life's many seasons. Linda also had the privilege of being godmother to my lovely nieces Nicole Laport and Meredith Jaremchuk.A true dog lover, Linda's compassion extended to her four-legged friends, and her home was always filled with the joy and comfort that only pets can bring. Her interest in current events kept her engaged with the world around her, and she was always ready to offer insightful perspectives on the day's happenings.An avid nature enthusiast, Linda found solace and inspiration at the Morton Arboretum. Her love for the outdoors was evident in her appreciation for the changing seasons and the simple beauty of the natural world. Music also played a significant role in Linda's life, with the tunes of Elvis and Train providing the soundtrack to many cherished moments. Her love for the Chicago White Sox was another passion that brought excitement and a sense of community to her life.Linda will be remembered for her loving nature, her kindness to all she met, and her thoughtful gestures that made everyone feel special. Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and the gentle touch that can turn an ordinary moment into a treasured memory.As we say goodbye to Linda Susan Potempa, we celebrate a life well-lived, a heart that loved deeply, and a spirit that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. Linda's memory will be carried in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were touched by her gracious presence. She leaves behind a world that is brighter for her having been in it, and a legacy of love that will endure.

Obituary Preview: Josephine, nee Garland, age 89, beloved wife of the late Joseph; loving mother of Joseph (the late Zaida), Stephen, and Michael ( Rae Ann) ; cherished grandmother of Elizabeth (Devin) Mantei; dear sister of the late Michael Garland; caring aunt of many nieces and nephews. Josephine was a loving mother, avid reader, world traveler and loyal Chicago Bears Fan. She was a caring teacher for 30 years. Visitation Friday 4 to 8 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien. For Info. 630-852-3595 or www.modelldairen.com

Obituary Preview: Kristina Waldron passed away peacefully with her family surrounding her on March 10, 2024. She was a loving daughter to Barbara Waldron and the late John J. Waldron, Jr., loving sister of Jeffery (Renee), David, James and the late Keith, cherished aunt of Jennifer (Ignacio) Mendez, Lindsay and Andrew, great-aunt to Jonathan Mendez. Loving niece to her aunts, uncles and cousins.Kristina was full of life, love and laughter. She was a kind, beautiful soul who was absolutely adored by all who had even the briefest of meetings with her. Her beautiful smile and infectious laugh ignited joy in every gathering. She loved the simplicity, beauty and solace in family vacations in Michigan. She loved the quiet beauty of nature and the loud crazy fun times in the pool.Kristina was unwaveringly passionate about her career at the Illinois Department of Revenue. Her tenacious spirit for justice and to uphold the law propelled her career. She had many friends in the department who will miss her very much.In lieu flowers donations to Catholic Charities appreciated. Memorial Visitation Monday, March 18, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Memorial Service at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien. Interment Private.

Obituary Preview: Maria Pasaye, nee Rypan, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2024, in Downers Grove, IL, at the age of 70. She was born on July 15, 1953 in Peru, IN to Ukrainian immigrants Mychajlo and Maria Rypan. Maria was preceded in death by her sister Parani (Edward) DeBehnke.Maria’s younger years were spent on a farm in Weyauwega, WI, where she was fostered by the Timm family. In the 1970s she moved to her beloved city of Chicago, and resided in several neighborhoods across her lifetime. Maria demonstrated her strong work ethic early in her career while at Kraft Foods. As a dedicated White Sox fan, Maria attended countless games over the years. When at family events, she often enjoyed photographing the festivities. Hobbies included listening to music, scrapbooking and creating collages, collecting coins in her earlier years, and doing puzzles in her later years. Maria was a courageous breast cancer survivor and felt a strong connection to her Ukrainian heritage.At the core of Maria's world was her family, who she cherished above all else. Maria and her former spouse, Raymond M. Pasaye, had one child together, their devoted daughter Angela Maria (Matthew) Mitchell. She was particularly proud of her daughter's achievements. Maria is also survived by her grandchildren, Shannon and Shea Mitchell. She embraced her role as their Grandma Maria with all her heart.She was a beloved Aunt Maria to many nieces and nephews. She valued her relationships with members of the Pasaye, Krystal, and DeBehnke families, as well as her foster family. Maria created strong friendships with numerous colleagues across her career. Her ability to love hard and work hard, despite the obstacles she encountered, left a lasting impression on everyone she met.Maria's life will be commemorated on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, from 9:00 am until time of service at 11:00 am at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien.

Obituary Preview: Anthony “Tony” Zangler, Sr., a cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and respected entrepreneur, passed away on March, 8, 2024, after a courageous battle with Stage IV colon cancer. Born on June 13th, 1941, in the heartland of Ukraine, Tony brought his unwavering spirit and profound kindness to every corner of his life, touching the hearts of all who knew him.Tony's journey led him from the rolling fields of his birthplace to the bustling energy of America, where he found both love and opportunity. He was the beloved husband of Carol Zangler for 62 years, with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring partnership. Together, they raised a family that became Anthony's pride and joy: his sons, Tony, Jr. (and his wife, Nicole), Todd, and the late Timothy. His legacy continued to flourish with his adoring grandchildren, Anthony and Timothy, and Nick (and his wife, Sarah), Ryan, Conner, Caitlyn, and Paige Zangler, and his cherished great-grandchildren, Laina, Kyla, and Bennett each of whom brought him immense joy. His sister, Ann (the late Jack) Murdach, remembers Anthony as a wise and loving brother, whose guidance and affection were a constant source of comfort and inspiration.Anthony's dedication to family was paralleled by his commitment to his work. He was the proud owner and operator of TZR, Inc. (Tony Zangler Repair), a business that stood as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit for 40 years. Before embarking on his own venture, he contributed two decades of service to the Chicago Northwestern Railroad, where his work ethic and expertise were deeply valued.Anthony's passions extended beyond his professional achievements. He was an avid horseback rider and bicyclist, embracing the freedom and adventure these activities offered. His love for the outdoors was infectious, and he often encouraged his family and friends to join him on these excursions, creating lasting memories.Described by those who knew him as loving, kind, and wise, Anthony's presence was a beacon of warmth and light. He approached life with a gentle strength and an open heart, always ready to lend an ear or share a word of advice. His wisdom was sought after by many, and his kindness left a lasting impact on the community he so dearly loved.

Obituary Preview: Tobey Panice, age 99, WWII Army Veteran, beloved husband of the late Angela, nee Lauretti; loving father of Gary (Nicolette), and Cari (Scott) Pfaff; cherished grandfather of Jackson Panice; dear brother of the late Herman (the late Sophie), Rosario (the late Sylvia), Edward (the late Dolores), and Raymond (the late Marie) Panice. Tobey worked for the National Can Company for 40 years and was a member of the United Steel Workers union for 40 years. He enjoyed woodworking and fishing. Funeral Monday, 9:15 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien, to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Mass 10:00 a.m. Int. Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation Sunday 3 to 7 PM. In lieu of Flowers donations to St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital Appreciated.

Obituary Preview: Mary Magdalena (Edmundson) Westell, 100 years young, went peacefully to God on Tuesday, March 5, 2024. She was born September 13, 1923 in Council Bluffs, Iowa. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Margaret (Hammes) Edmundson, late of Pocahontas, Iowa, and her loving husband, Dale Thomas Westell (1924-2000) and her dear sister, Helen Monica (Edmundson) Southard.Mary was the beloved mother of Ed (Helga) Westell and Mary Ann Westell (Frank Koronkiewicz), devoted grandmother of Adam (Liz) Westell and Amanda and Brett Koronkiewicz, and proud great grandmother of Lincoln Westell, and a loyal friend to many.Mary was a 1941 graduate of Madelia High School in in Madelia, MN and a 1944 graduate of Des Moines (IA) Mercy School of Nursing. She worked in the post partum maternity ward at St. Michael’s hospital in Milwaukee (WI). She was proud of being 100% Irish and was a huge Green Bay Packer fan. Mary was known for her sense of humor and loved baking, sewing, playing cards and spending time with family. She was a lifetime member of the 390th Bomb Group in which Dale served during WWII. She resided at Sunrise of Willowbrook for 4 ½ years where she received loving care, after living at Hartford Square in Hartford, WI and in Milwaukee, WI, Des Moines and Marion, Iowa prior to that.

Obituary Preview: Barbara A. Beachem, age 68, devoted daughter of the late Leonard and Vera; Loving sister of Pat (Bill) Baylis. Barbara earned a Masters Degree in Psychology, and was an avid cook and artist. She also loved her dog Lenny. Barbara overcame some of life’s greatest challenges with characteristic strength and stoicism. Visitation Wednesday 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien. Funeral Thursday 8:45 am prayers at the funeral home going to Holy Trinity Church for mass at 9:30 am. Interment Saturday at Holy Cross Cemetery in Ohio.

Obituary Preview: Ryan Paul Seeden, age 43; Navy Veteran; beloved father of Rocky; loving son of the late Paul and the late Cynthia (nee Jefferson); cherished brother of Scott (Francine) Seeden, the late Darcie Seeden, and the late Daryl Seeden; dear nephew of Holly (the late Rodney) Singer; fond cousin of Ethan Singer, Jason Singer, and Aaron Singer; beloved friend of David Baumann and Mike Maves. A graveside service will be held Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 9:00 am at Clarendon Hills Cemetery, 6900 S. Cass Ave., Darien. Please meet at the cemetery office at 8:45 am.

Obituary Preview: Stephanie J. Madryk, nee Cabaj, age 102, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2024, surrounded by love, in Aurora, Illinois. Born December 1, 1921, in Chicago, Stephanie's vibrant spirit and joy for life left a memorable imprint on all who knew her.Stephanie's legacy is carried on by her devoted children Nancy, Linda, Karen, and Jim (Kathy) Madryk, and her adored grandchildren, Ashley and Hailey. A treasured sister, she reunites with her late siblings, George and Lottie Cabaj, and her dearly missed husband, Walter.Her passions were simple yet profound, as she found delight in the rhythm of polka dancing, the excitement of bingo and casino visits, and the savory pleasures of baking and cooking. A faithful Chicago Cubs fan, Stephanie's enthusiasm for the team mirrored her approach to life—full of hope and unwavering support.Funeral Wednesday 9:15am prayers from Modell Funeral Home 7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien to Our Lady of Peace Church Mass 10:00am. Visitation Tuesday 4:00pm – 8:00pm. Entombment Resurrection Cemetery Mausoleum.

Obituary Preview: It is with profound sadness that we share the unexpected passing of Michael Anthony Sapyta on February 26th, 2024 at the age of 63.Mike was preceded in death by his father Stanley Sapyta and brother Mark Sapyta. Mike was a beloved father to Matt & Jessica (Loren), and proud grandfather (aka, Poppy) to Sophia & Flynn. Mike is survived by his mother Joan Sapyta, his siblings Laura (Jeff) Walker and Jeff (Nicole) Sapyta. Mike was the quintessential “fun uncle” to Ryan (Emily) Barr, Kristin (Moo) Wattanabanjongkul, Anthony (Allyson) Sapyta, Alexander Sapyta, Andrea (Joey) Sapyta, Jack Sapyta, and Audrey Sapyta.Mike lived a life full of love and laughter that he shared with his family and many friends. Mike never lost being a kid at heart and loved making people laugh, playing with his grandchildren, and being the life of the party. Mike had a special gift with helping others in need- whether it was to lend a hand at a moment’s notice, bring people out of their shell, or just making others feel seen and special.Mike was deeply spiritual like his father, and he was committed to both improving himself and spreading hope, wisdom, and positivity to others. Mike’s favorite pastime was playing outdoors, especially at the nearest golf course. Mike was a stranger to no one and made friends everywhere he went.Memorial Visitation will be Saturday, March 9th, 2024 from 12pm-4pm followed by a Memorial service at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien. We invite guests to bring brief stories and memories to share.

Obituary Preview: Raymond J. St. Mary, loving father of Lynette (the late Bill) McSorley, Debra (Robert A.) Foster and the late Sandee St. Mary, cherished grandfather of Grace Foster, Jimmy McSorley, Bobby (Ann) Foster, Ellie Foster, Danny McSorley and great- grandfather of Hudson Foster. Dear uncle, cousin, and friend to many. Longtime employee of AT&T, avid landscaper, carpenter, automotive and sports enthusiast, and provider of family adventures and gatherings. Memorial Visitation Thursday, March 7, 2024, from 1:00 p.m. until the 5:00 p.m. Memorial Service at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Avenue, Darien. Private interment at Clarendon Hills Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Lucia “Lucy” Nuzzo, nee Botticelli, age 88, loving wife of the late Carlo; loving mother of Peter, David (Rosma Gutierrez), Diana (Patricia Cooper); cherish Nonna of Elena, and Luca; dear sister of Vito (Rosemary) Botticelli; also nieces and nephews.Lucy loved to do gardening, especially planting flowers and growing fresh herbs for cooking. She was an excellent cook and no one made a better spaghetti sauce, lasagna or homemade cheesecake. Her favorite relaxation was reading, especially mystery novels.Above all else she was a kind, beautiful and loving Mother.Funeral Thursday 9:30 a.m. from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien, to Our Lady of Peace Church, Mass 10:00 a.m. Ent. Queen of Heaven Mausoleum. Visitation Thursday 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.

Obituary Preview: A few words from Stephen’s loving Wife, Diann:Even though I am Stephen’s widow, it seems best for me to give his eulogy because I know best what he has accomplished.Stephen was born and raised in the southside of Chicago by parents who immigrated from Croatia. He graduated from St. Rita High School and was educated at Loyola and DePaul Universities. He was a worker compensation and fraternal insurance counsellor throughout the years. Stephen was a lifetime member of the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge 32 of which he was Vice President and then Secretary from 1991 to 2005.Stephen joined the Knights of Columbus on November 8, 1953, and he has been an active Fourth Degree member which included past Grand Knight and Financial Secretary of six councils; District Deputy and faithful navigator of two assemblies; State Knights of Columbus Youth Director referred to as the Squires Program. He was recipient of both the masters and state medallions for which he received two specially engraved K.O.C. swords.He was also a Eucharistic Minister of Care since 1997, an active member of the St. Vincent DePaul Society since 1998 and graduated Lay Minister in the Arch Diocese of Chicago since 2000. His life work was in the insurance industry and was a Knights of Columbus insurance agent for many years.As a man in Honor Guard, he once shook hands with Pope Saint John Paul II when he came to Chicago.He has received many awards which have been laid on the floor of the coffin under his body and two very special presentation swords for his accomplishments which have been laid alongside each of his legs in the coffin. This is why you will not see the awards and swords displayed.It has touched my soul that you have come to attend Stephen’s wake and Funeral Mass and I pray that God grants each one of you special graces for your kindness. This eulogy ends with a very fervent Amen.Visitation Saturday, February 24th, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am Franciscan Village, 1270 Village Dr., Lemont. Funeral Service to immediately follow at 11:00 am. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville, IL.

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Obituary Preview: Lawrence “Larry” Hartnett, Loving husband Lynda nee Brasewicz, Beloved father of Carolyn (Jason) Riha, Christine Hartnett, Michelle (Zachary Dusek) Hartnett, Cherished grandfather of Margaret and Elena Riha, Dear brother Catherine (Michael) Strawn, William Hartnett and Patrick Hartnett.

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Obituary Preview: Leon Dominic LeDesma, a cherished soul known for his kindness, humor, and friendly demeanor, passed away peacefully on February 12, 2024, in LaGrange, IL. Born on August 4, 1936, Leon's life was a testament to the love and laughter he brought into the lives of those around him.Leon was the beloved husband of the late Kathleen Walsh and a loving father who instilled values of courage and compassion in his children: Dominic (Sudarat) LeDesma, Marc LeDesma (Katie McLatchey), and the late Anita LeDesma. His role as a grandpa was filled with joyful moments and everlasting memories with his grandchildren, Kristen Covarrubias, Matthew Schwantes, Jennifer LeDesma, Jessica LeDesma, and the late Steven Rule. A devoted great-grandpa, Leon's legacy continues through Candice, Steven, and Nicolas, who will always remember his warmth and gentle spirit.Leon's siblings, Carmella, Vicky, Elizabeth, and Mary, held a special place in his heart. His bond with them was built on mutual respect, love, and the countless cherished moments they shared throughout the years.Leon's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to serving others. He proudly served our country in the United States Army, a period during which he exhibited honor and bravery. Following his military service, Leon continued his dedication to community and safety as a respected police officer in Burr Ridge, IL. His work ethic and dedication to his role were evident in the respect and admiration he received from colleagues and community members alike.Beyond his professional achievements, Leon had a passion for life's simple pleasures. He loved spending quality time with his family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. His love for taking care of his yard and gardening was unmatched, as he found solace and joy in the beauty of nature. Friends knew Leon as the life of the conversation, always ready to meet for coffee and a good laugh. His presence was a comfort, and his ability to make others smile was a gift that will be dearly missed.In honor of Leon's life and the countless memories he has given us, we take solace in knowing that his journey was filled with purpose and that he has now found peace. Leon Dominic LeDesma will forever be remembered as a beacon of light in the lives of his loved ones.A visitation will be held from 9:00 am until time of service at 11:00 am at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien. Interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery will take place at a later date.

Obituary Preview: Joan Marie Ritzert, 88, loving wife of Kenneth Robert Ritzert (deceased) for 61 years. Devoted mother of John (Deceased), Bill, and Edward (Lori). Affectionate grandmother to Matthew. She was a native of Cicero, IL, moving to Clarendon Hills with her parents John and Josephine Kanikula at an early age. She attended North Central College and Northwestern Medical School where she received her education as a Medical Technologist – a profession she pursued for over 30 years. She and her husband resided in Darien for over 50 years. They traveled the U.S. and Europe extensively. She loved gardening and had a small business growing and selling hosta plants along with her husband. She is also survived by two sisters, Phyllis (James – Deceased) Johnston, and Margaret (Rudy) Barda; a dear cousin, Marianne (Ron) Mitera, and many nieces and nephews. Funeral Monday, February 19th 9:15 am from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave., Darien to Our Lady of Peace Church, Darien. Mass 10:00 am. Interment Clarendon Hills Cemetery. Visitation Sunday, February 18th, from 12:00 pm until 4:00 pm with a rosary service at 4:00 pm. Memorial contributions can be made to The Black Madonna Shrine, 100 St. Joseph’s Hill Road, Pacific, MO 63060 or www.theblackmadonnashrine.org.

Obituary Preview: John L. Krones, age 88, U.S. Army Veteran, beloved husband of the late Sylvia, nee Shep; loving father of Sandra (Davis) Neuenkirchen, and Cynthia (Dennis) Colleran; cherished grandfather of Cory, Samuel, and Benjamin Neuenkirchen, and Nathan, Zachary, Aaron, Tyler, and Cameron Colleran.John Krones, called "Sonny" by his cousins, was born on November 23, 1935 to John P. Krones, Sr. and Helen nee Resutek in Chicago Illinois. In 1954, he graduated from St. Mel's High School and started to work at Sears, Roebuck, and Co. where he was employed as a carpet cutter in their Homan Ave. campus and progressed onward to a draftsman working in the Sears Tower in Downtown Chicago till his retirement after 35 years.While at Sears, he enlisted in the Army, basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, and served his tour at Ft. Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska as a fireman where he further instilled his love of our beautiful country and the American flag. He was a true veteran in every sense, still able to proudly wear his uniform after 60 years.John met and married the love of his life, Sylvia on June 30, 1962 and they spent 60 years until her passing on April 21, 2022. Two daughters were born; Sandy and Cindi and through them seven grandsons.John was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. He never met a stranger, always extending a welcoming handshake and smile. His genuine interest in all his surroundings and his very gentle nature drew everyone to him. Always with a smile, always with genuine interest, and a warmth that drew others to him as he bestowed his love to all.

Obituary Preview: Margaret "Marge" L. Johnson, nee Nygardh, age 83, was a compassionate, genuine and devoted mother and grandmother as well as a proud Swede. Marge became instant friends with whoever she met on any of her adventures. She was a kind soul, willing to go above and beyond for anyone in need. She had a special soft spot for furry friends. Marge adored her late husband Jim and played an integral role in the family business — and one of the main reasons it thrived for so many years. She was an amazing mother, always ready for fun but also made sure we remained respectful and followed the rules. We were proud to call her Mom and Farmor, and couldn’t have asked for a better role model. She will be missed every day and loved forever more. Marge's memory will live on in the hearts of all those she touched.Marge was preceded in death by her beloved husband James "Jim" Paul, dear sister Birgit (Allan) Lunquist, wonderful niece Karen Altenhoff and adoring cousin Rita (Paul) Holly. She is survived by her loving sons Eric and Allan (Joanne); cherished grandsons Colton and Zachary; amazing nieces Sandra and Sheila (Mike); and many other wonderful cousins and loved ones.Visitation is on Tuesday, 2/20/2024 from 4 to 8 pm at Modell Funeral Home, 7710 South Cass Avenue, Darien. Lying in state Wednesday from 10:00 am till time of service 11:00 a.m. at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church. Int. Mt. Vernon Estates Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Teresita Tumanan Dela Cruz, age 79, passed away peacefully at home in the early morning hours of February 8, 2024, after living with Parkinsons for 20 plus years.Born Aug 25,1944 in Calasiao, Philippines she was the 5th out of 12 children in the Tumanan family. “Tita” was the first generation and first to come to the United States in the early 1970’s working as a nurse in the nursery at Michael Reese hospital in Chicago, IL until the early 2000’s. She lived in Darien IL raising 3 children with her late husband, Jaime Dela Cruz for most of her healthy life.During this time, she was very involved in petitioning her brothers and sisters and other family members to come to the United States. Being the matriarch of the Tumanan family, Tita sacrificed her well-being by helping out, showing kindness, and caring for everyone. She had an uncanny ability to connect and bond with people she met and intertwined it into her tapestry of life like the “six degrees of Tita”. She enjoyed being part of the FAASD and Filipino Nurses Associations in the community, going to church, gardening, and going to the casino playing slots.She is survived by her children Janete (Jay) Cha, Jonathan, and Jennifer and her grandchildren Evan and Melina. She will be truly missed by her family, siblings, her many nieces and nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews, dear friends and fellow retired nurses, and everyone else who touched her strong heart and sincere soul. Visitation Monday, February 12, from 4-8 pm at Modell Funeral Home in Darien, IL; Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, February 13, 10:00 am at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Darien, IL; Internment at Clarendon Hills Cemetery in Darien

Obituary Preview: Valerie Chentorycki, (nee Scibek), beloved wife of the late Frank Chentorycki; loving mother of Richard (Lisa), Lucia Gallagher, Henry (Patty), and Dana Clark; dear grandmother of Jason, Renee, Daniel, Stephanie, Katie, Melissa, Alexander, Ryan, Julia, Maureen, Lili, Michael, Caroline, Conner, Kevin, and Victoria; cherished great-grandmother of 9; dear sister of the late Leona Bogdanowicz; also many nieces and nephews. Funeral Monday 9:15 am from Modell Funeral Home, 7710 S. Cass Ave, Darien to St Scholastica Church, Mass 10 am. Interment St. Adalbert Cemetery. Visitation Sunday, 2:00 – 7:00 pm. In Lieu of flowers, please consider donation to Alzheimer’s Research.