Obituaries
Obituaries for Vandenberg Funeral Home
In Memory of Our Dear Loved Ones
Michele Cialdella
Feb 13, 2025
Michele Cialdella October 4, 1934 – February 13, 2025 With a heart as warm as the sun that nourished his beloved garden, Michele Cialdella lived a life filled with love, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Born in Ripacandida, Italy, to Donato & Lucia Cialdella, Michele’s journey took him across continents. At just 15 years old, he bravely...
Richie A. Gemmell
Feb 12, 2025
If you ever heard someone holler, “We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time!”, odds are you were in the presence of Richard Alexander Gemmell—or as the general public called him, "Richie" or "Senator". To his family, he was "Dickie", to his nieces and nephews, "Uncle Boo Boo", and to his daughters, just “Dad”—though he'd...
Lad Dennis Smutny Ii
Feb 12, 2025
Lad Dennis Smutny II, age 83, late of Joliet, IL, passed away February 12, 2025. U.S. AirForce Veteran. Avid Chicago Bears fan. He enjoyed fishing, boating, waterskiing, jet skiing, Corvette cars, ice cream, hamburgers, and fries. He was a handyman and could fix just about anything. He graduated from J. Sterling Morton High School and Lewis University with a Bachelor...
Chester D. Ryske
Feb 9, 2025
Chester D. Ryske, age 69, late of New Lenox, IL, passed away February 9, 2025. He attended Mass at St. Mary Church in Mokena, IL. Chester was professional, hard-working, and dedicated to his family and career. He was an avid reader-enjoyed Stephen King books. He was a Notre Dame football fan. Chester loved learning about history and watching horror films....
Lawrence "Larry" V. Siwinski
Feb 8, 2025
Lawrence “Larry” V. Siwinski, age 72, late of Cleveland, GA and formerly of Mokena, IL, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025. Beloved son of the late Loretta and Raymond Siwinski. Caring brother of Rita Siwinski, Jerry (Bobbi) Siwinski, Linda (Wayne) Winkler, Ken (Jill) Siwinski, Barb (Mike) Bersano, Cathy (Tad) Dabrowski, the late Ray Siwinski Jr., and Dan (Karen) Siwinski....
Charlene F. Burns
Feb 6, 2025
Charlene F. Burns nee Hebner, late of Orland Park. Beloved wife of the late Gerald O. Burns. Loving mother of the late Gerald O. II (Jean) Burns, Cheryl (Aubrey) Hubbard, Christine (Patrick) Nolan and Kevin (Traci) Burns. Proud grandmother of William Gaynor Jr., Jean (Jason) Gaynor-Jasas, Patrick (Elizabeth) Gaynor, Jeremy Burns, Erin (Alan) Nolan, Brendan (Justice) Burns, Gerald III (Olivia)...
James Louis Borgia
Feb 5, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Borgia on February 5, 2025. James was known for his infectious laughter and his unwavering happiness. He was an avid golfer and a true family man, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. James was a friend to all, and he loved to make people laugh. He...
Diane "Sammy" A. Kelly
Feb 4, 2025
Diane “Sammy” A. Kelly, age 81, late of Crestwood, IL, passed away February 4, 2025. Diane loved watching movies, traveling, reading, shopping, the color purple, going out to eat, learning about history, playing Bocce Ball, and enjoyed a good glass of wine. She was a phenomenal speller and had a great sense of humor. Diane was an amazing listener and...
Esther Marie Stachon
Feb 3, 2025
Esther Stachon (née Lopez) was a kind and gentle soul who touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Raised in Chicago by her loving parents, Guadalupe and Fernando Lopez, Esther carried their values of warmth, strength, and unwavering love throughout her life. On September 25, 1985, she married the love of her life, Francis "Sonny" Stachon, and together they...
Erik M. Peacock
Feb 2, 2025
Erik M. Peacock, age 44, late of Frankfort, IL, passed away February 2, 2025. Avid Bears, Cubs, and White Sox fan. Erik loved watching sports-mostly football and baseball. He was a Local 241 CTA mechanic for 26 years. Most of all he loved spending time with his family, especially with his children Erik and Olivia. He will be greatly missed....
Barbara J. Schneider
Feb 1, 2025
Barbara J. Schneider, age 90, late of Braidwood, IL, passed away February 1, 2025. She was born on January 22, 1935 in Chicago, IL. Beloved mom, grandma, great-grandma, beach mimi, and gigi. Barb met her husband Bill while they were in High School. They married when Bill enlisted in the Army to serve in the Korean War. Barb worked at...
Joseph J. Klaw Sr.
Jan 27, 2025
Jospeh J. Klaw Sr., age 82, late of Mokena, IL, passed away January 27, 2025. Joseph enjoyed traveling, especially to Williams Bay Wisconsin. Alumni of Brother Rice High School. Joseph had a fascination with anything to do with transportation: planes, buses, and trains. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. Beloved husband of Maria J. Klaw (nee...
Judy Howard
Jan 26, 2025
Judy Howard (Hriljac), 72, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 26, 2025, in her home in Tinley Park. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Marion Hriljac and Mildred "Millie" Hriljac (Dvornik), as well as her husband, Herbert Howard Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Niki Hetrick (husband Steve), and grandson, Jordan John ("JJ"). She also leaves behind...
Vebi I. Aidinovski
Jan 25, 2025
Vebi I. Aidinovski, age 57, late of Bridgeview, IL, passed away January 25, 2025. He was an electrician for several years and was an extremely hard worker. Vebi enjoyed bowling and wrestling. He doted over his rottweiler Sophia. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. Loving significant other of Donna Wenk. Cherished father of Joshua Wenk-Aidinovski and...
James L. Gadzinski
Jan 21, 2025
James L. Gadzinski, age 70, late of Tinley Park, IL, passed away January 21, 2025. Parishioner at St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Catholic Church in Tinley Park, IL. He was an avid golfer and an all-around sports fan with a special interest in college football, March Madness, and the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed grilling and drinking craft beers. Most of...
Anthony "Tony" Freapane
Jan 16, 2025
Anthony "Tony" Freapane lived a life defined by generosity, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family. Born on March 10, 1926, Tony was a proud World War II veteran, serving as an Army Rifleman with courage and dedication. After his service, he continued his hardworking ways as a truck driver, known for his reliability and strong work ethic....
Frank J. Derucki Jr.
Jan 16, 2025
Frank J. Derucki, Jr., age 60, late of Tinley Park, IL passed away on January 16, 2025 after a 30+ year battle with MS and a short hard battle with brain cancer. Beloved brother of Julie Ann (David) Kotowski, Michael Derucki, and John Derucki (Samantha Hudgens–fiancée), dear friend Karyn Staresinich, sisters-in-law Gail (John) Chengary and Susan (Darin) Angus. Cherished uncle...
Dale E. Jesk
Jan 15, 2025
Dale E. Jesk, age 89, late of Mokena, IL, passed away January 15, 2025. Longtime parishioner of St. Mary Church in Mokena, IL. Beloved husband of Renetta Jesk (nee Dewar) for 71 years. Loving father of Dale (Gino) Maira, Terry (Tanna) Jesk, Patrice (Mark) Hickey, and the late Nora (Tom) Kurzawski. Cherished grandfather of Phillip (Emily), Angela, Michael, Jenna (Jim),...
Melanie D. Stapleton-Zarobsky
Jan 14, 2025
Melanie Denise Stapleton-Zarobsky, 52, was the beloved granddaughter to the late Anna J. Koch and the late Martha Olinger, cherished daughter of Joyce and the late Dean Koch, loving mother of Michael (Kayla) Stapleton, Jr. and Matthew Stapleton, proud grandmother of Dean, Ava, and Bo, dear sister to James (Ronica) Koch and Marnie (Erik) Massey, fond aunt of Jade, Graycie,...
Jacquelyn A. Becker
Jan 14, 2025
Jacquelyn A. (Jackie) Becker peacefully passed away on January 14, 2025. She was born in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on January 14, 1946, to Mr. John and Marietta Russen. Jackie’s meticulous nature was evident in the significance of her birth and passing on the same date. Jackie is survived by her husband of 58 years, Al Becker; her daughter, Jessica Dever (Guy);...
Michele Cialdella
Feb 13, 2025
Michele Cialdella October 4, 1934 – February 13, 2025 With a heart as warm as the sun that nourished his beloved garden, Michele Cialdella lived a life filled with love, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Born in Ripacandida, Italy, to Donato & Lucia Cialdella, Michele’s journey took him across continents. At just 15 years old, he bravely...
Richie A. Gemmell
Feb 12, 2025
If you ever heard someone holler, “We’re not here for a long time, we’re here for a good time!”, odds are you were in the presence of Richard Alexander Gemmell—or as the general public called him, "Richie" or "Senator". To his family, he was "Dickie", to his nieces and nephews, "Uncle Boo Boo", and to his daughters, just “Dad”—though he'd...
Lad Dennis Smutny Ii
Feb 12, 2025
Lad Dennis Smutny II, age 83, late of Joliet, IL, passed away February 12, 2025. U.S. AirForce Veteran. Avid Chicago Bears fan. He enjoyed fishing, boating, waterskiing, jet skiing, Corvette cars, ice cream, hamburgers, and fries. He was a handyman and could fix just about anything. He graduated from J. Sterling Morton High School and Lewis University with a Bachelor...
Chester D. Ryske
Feb 9, 2025
Chester D. Ryske, age 69, late of New Lenox, IL, passed away February 9, 2025. He attended Mass at St. Mary Church in Mokena, IL. Chester was professional, hard-working, and dedicated to his family and career. He was an avid reader-enjoyed Stephen King books. He was a Notre Dame football fan. Chester loved learning about history and watching horror films....
Lawrence "Larry" V. Siwinski
Feb 8, 2025
Lawrence “Larry” V. Siwinski, age 72, late of Cleveland, GA and formerly of Mokena, IL, passed away peacefully on February 8, 2025. Beloved son of the late Loretta and Raymond Siwinski. Caring brother of Rita Siwinski, Jerry (Bobbi) Siwinski, Linda (Wayne) Winkler, Ken (Jill) Siwinski, Barb (Mike) Bersano, Cathy (Tad) Dabrowski, the late Ray Siwinski Jr., and Dan (Karen) Siwinski....
Charlene F. Burns
Feb 6, 2025
Charlene F. Burns nee Hebner, late of Orland Park. Beloved wife of the late Gerald O. Burns. Loving mother of the late Gerald O. II (Jean) Burns, Cheryl (Aubrey) Hubbard, Christine (Patrick) Nolan and Kevin (Traci) Burns. Proud grandmother of William Gaynor Jr., Jean (Jason) Gaynor-Jasas, Patrick (Elizabeth) Gaynor, Jeremy Burns, Erin (Alan) Nolan, Brendan (Justice) Burns, Gerald III (Olivia)...
James Louis Borgia
Feb 5, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James Borgia on February 5, 2025. James was known for his infectious laughter and his unwavering happiness. He was an avid golfer and a true family man, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. James was a friend to all, and he loved to make people laugh. He...
Diane "Sammy" A. Kelly
Feb 4, 2025
Diane “Sammy” A. Kelly, age 81, late of Crestwood, IL, passed away February 4, 2025. Diane loved watching movies, traveling, reading, shopping, the color purple, going out to eat, learning about history, playing Bocce Ball, and enjoyed a good glass of wine. She was a phenomenal speller and had a great sense of humor. Diane was an amazing listener and...
Esther Marie Stachon
Feb 3, 2025
Esther Stachon (née Lopez) was a kind and gentle soul who touched the lives of everyone who knew her. Raised in Chicago by her loving parents, Guadalupe and Fernando Lopez, Esther carried their values of warmth, strength, and unwavering love throughout her life. On September 25, 1985, she married the love of her life, Francis "Sonny" Stachon, and together they...
Erik M. Peacock
Feb 2, 2025
Erik M. Peacock, age 44, late of Frankfort, IL, passed away February 2, 2025. Avid Bears, Cubs, and White Sox fan. Erik loved watching sports-mostly football and baseball. He was a Local 241 CTA mechanic for 26 years. Most of all he loved spending time with his family, especially with his children Erik and Olivia. He will be greatly missed....
Barbara J. Schneider
Feb 1, 2025
Barbara J. Schneider, age 90, late of Braidwood, IL, passed away February 1, 2025. She was born on January 22, 1935 in Chicago, IL. Beloved mom, grandma, great-grandma, beach mimi, and gigi. Barb met her husband Bill while they were in High School. They married when Bill enlisted in the Army to serve in the Korean War. Barb worked at...
Joseph J. Klaw Sr.
Jan 27, 2025
Jospeh J. Klaw Sr., age 82, late of Mokena, IL, passed away January 27, 2025. Joseph enjoyed traveling, especially to Williams Bay Wisconsin. Alumni of Brother Rice High School. Joseph had a fascination with anything to do with transportation: planes, buses, and trains. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. Beloved husband of Maria J. Klaw (nee...
Judy Howard
Jan 26, 2025
Judy Howard (Hriljac), 72, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 26, 2025, in her home in Tinley Park. Judy was preceded in death by her parents, Marion Hriljac and Mildred "Millie" Hriljac (Dvornik), as well as her husband, Herbert Howard Jr. She is survived by her daughter, Niki Hetrick (husband Steve), and grandson, Jordan John ("JJ"). She also leaves behind...
Vebi I. Aidinovski
Jan 25, 2025
Vebi I. Aidinovski, age 57, late of Bridgeview, IL, passed away January 25, 2025. He was an electrician for several years and was an extremely hard worker. Vebi enjoyed bowling and wrestling. He doted over his rottweiler Sophia. Most of all he loved spending time with his family. Loving significant other of Donna Wenk. Cherished father of Joshua Wenk-Aidinovski and...
James L. Gadzinski
Jan 21, 2025
James L. Gadzinski, age 70, late of Tinley Park, IL, passed away January 21, 2025. Parishioner at St. Stephen Deacon and Martyr Catholic Church in Tinley Park, IL. He was an avid golfer and an all-around sports fan with a special interest in college football, March Madness, and the Chicago Cubs. He enjoyed grilling and drinking craft beers. Most of...
Anthony "Tony" Freapane
Jan 16, 2025
Anthony "Tony" Freapane lived a life defined by generosity, hard work, and an unwavering love for his family. Born on March 10, 1926, Tony was a proud World War II veteran, serving as an Army Rifleman with courage and dedication. After his service, he continued his hardworking ways as a truck driver, known for his reliability and strong work ethic....
Frank J. Derucki Jr.
Jan 16, 2025
Frank J. Derucki, Jr., age 60, late of Tinley Park, IL passed away on January 16, 2025 after a 30+ year battle with MS and a short hard battle with brain cancer. Beloved brother of Julie Ann (David) Kotowski, Michael Derucki, and John Derucki (Samantha Hudgens–fiancée), dear friend Karyn Staresinich, sisters-in-law Gail (John) Chengary and Susan (Darin) Angus. Cherished uncle...
Dale E. Jesk
Jan 15, 2025
Dale E. Jesk, age 89, late of Mokena, IL, passed away January 15, 2025. Longtime parishioner of St. Mary Church in Mokena, IL. Beloved husband of Renetta Jesk (nee Dewar) for 71 years. Loving father of Dale (Gino) Maira, Terry (Tanna) Jesk, Patrice (Mark) Hickey, and the late Nora (Tom) Kurzawski. Cherished grandfather of Phillip (Emily), Angela, Michael, Jenna (Jim),...
Melanie D. Stapleton-Zarobsky
Jan 14, 2025
Melanie Denise Stapleton-Zarobsky, 52, was the beloved granddaughter to the late Anna J. Koch and the late Martha Olinger, cherished daughter of Joyce and the late Dean Koch, loving mother of Michael (Kayla) Stapleton, Jr. and Matthew Stapleton, proud grandmother of Dean, Ava, and Bo, dear sister to James (Ronica) Koch and Marnie (Erik) Massey, fond aunt of Jade, Graycie,...
Jacquelyn A. Becker
Jan 14, 2025
Jacquelyn A. (Jackie) Becker peacefully passed away on January 14, 2025. She was born in Sewickley, Pennsylvania, on January 14, 1946, to Mr. John and Marietta Russen. Jackie’s meticulous nature was evident in the significance of her birth and passing on the same date. Jackie is survived by her husband of 58 years, Al Becker; her daughter, Jessica Dever (Guy);...
Vandenberg Funeral Home
is a collection of obituaries for Tinley Park and Mokena, Illinois. With services throughout Illinois that are updated regularly. Find local Tinley Park and Mokena, Illinois obituaries and join us in celebrating memories and honoring their lives and legacies.
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