Alejandro Gonzalez Maldonado, 54, a resident of Round Lake Park, IL, passed away May 10, 2025, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL. He was born September 25, 1970, in Mexico to Antonio Gonzalez and Teresa Maldonado.
Alejandro was a hardworking, a good husband, and a loving father. He enjoyed music, baseball, and soccer. He was outgoing and enjoyed being sociable at all the family parties. Alejandro loved his family and his brothers and sisters.
Alejandro is survived by his wife Maria Moreno, his mother Teresa Maldonado, his children Jocelyn Gonzalez, Alejandro Gonzalez Jr., and Bryan Gonzalez, and his siblings Salvador Gonzalez Maldonado, Imelda Gonzalez, Augustine Gonzalez, Carmen Gonzalez, Socorro Gonzalez, Martine Gonzalez, Guadalupe Gonzalez, and Antonio Gonzalez. He was preceded in death by his father Antonio Gonzalez, his baby daughter Alondra, his sister Yolanda Gonzalez, and his brother Juan Jose Gonzalez.
A visitation is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. The funeral mass is scheduled for Monday, May 19, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church 114 N. Lincoln Ave. Round Lake, IL 60073 at 9:30am. Interment will follow at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Cindy Vaitonis, a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and tireless volunteer, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 9, 2025, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was 75 at the time of her passing.
Born on February 3, 1950, in Elkhart, IN, Cindy was a longtime resident of Round Lake Beach. Cindy’s life was a testament to love, service, and a deep commitment to family. A proud mother of three girls and grandmother to eight grandchildren, Cindy’s heart was always open. She was a well-loved Girl Scout leader, sharing her time, knowledge, and passion for crafting with a generation of young girls. In later years, many were lucky to receive her knotted fleece blankets with prints that matched their passions – each a gift made with love and cherished by those who received them.
Cindy’s legacy also includes a deep commitment to volunteerism and causes close to her heart. She spent countless hours volunteering with organizations like Feed My Starving Children, where she packed thousands of meals for children in need, and worked at the food pantry at her church, offering sustenance and compassion to those less fortunate. All who had the privilege of working alongside her felt her impact on the community.
Cindy was also a staunch advocate for causes that provided for those with less than her. Her advocacy inspired her children, grandchildren, and those around her to carry on her legacy of social justice. She believed in fairness, equality, and the power of compassion, and her advocacy for these values continues to guide her family’s commitment to making a difference in the world.
Her relationship with her beloved husband, Steve, was a story of deep and abiding love. They were married in 1971, the year that Walt Disney World in Orlando opened, and celebrated their honeymoon in the newly opened park. Their shared love for the magic of Disney was a hallmark of their life together. To celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, Cindy and Steve returned to the park where their love for each other, and for the wonder of Disney, had begun.
In her professional life, Cindy enjoyed a lengthy and fulfilling career in business, including time at Household Finance, HSBC, and ultimately retiring after more than a decade as a real estate agent at Century 21. She was a trusted agent, helping many families find their dream homes. Cindy’s work was always driven by her genuine desire to make a positive impact on others’ lives, including her coworkers and her clients.
In the later years of her life, Cindy’s battle with Alzheimer’s disease was both heartbreaking and a reflection of her strength and resilience. Despite the challenges, Cindy’s family remained her greatest joy and source of pride. They were unwavering in their love and care for her, honoring her with the same devotion she had given them throughout her life.
Cindy’s memory will live on in the hearts of many, including her loving husband, Steve; her three daughters, Kris (Andy) Hartman, Kimberly (Joe) Miller, and Stephanie (Jason) Santo; her eight grandchildren: Madison, Chase, Presley, Reese, Griffin, Eleanor, Cleo, and Harper. Cindy leaves behind her brother Mike Dovel and aunt Phyllis Jackson; she was preceded in death by her sister Toni, brother Dennis, and parents, Gordon and Eleanor Louise Dovel.
A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 4pm until 5pm. The visitation will begin at 4:00pm, followed by the service at 5:00pm. We hope that friends and family will gather with us to share stories, celebrate Cindy’s extraordinary life, and reflect on the countless ways she touched the hearts of those around her. Visitors are encouraged to wear something other than black so that we can make Cindy’s celebration of life a colorful one. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Cindy’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association.https://donorservices.alz.org/page/FUNYAFYQDKA
For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Anne Marie Ayres, 69, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on May 7, 2025, at her home. She was born on January 8, 1956, in Hinsdale, IL to Albert and Winnie May Grimmer.
Anne, beloved daughter, wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend was a beacon of warmth, compassion, and strength whose presence made the world a kinder place.
Anne grew up embracing the values of family, service, and gentleness. As a daughter and sister, she radiated loyalty, love, and unwavering support. Her nurturing spirit carried into her roles as a wife and mother, where she created a home filled with laughter, love, and patience. Her grandchildren were the lights of her life, and she delighted in every hug, giggle, and story shared.
A woman of many talents and endless dedication, she wore many hats in her lifetime: an inspiring scout leader, a patient and passionate teacher, a joyful cheerleader on the sidelines of kids’ sporting events, a skillful baker whose treats brought joy to all, and a talented seamstress whose hands crafted with love. Her garden bloomed as beautifully as her generous heart, and she found special joy in caring for animals with tenderness and respect.
Kind-hearted, all-loving, and endlessly patient, Anne lived a life of grace and giving. She taught us, by example, how to love deeply, serve humbly, and live fully. Her legacy is one of love-woven through every life she touched, every soul she comforted, and every memory we hold dear.
She will be profoundly missed but forever remembered with love.
Anne is survived by her husband of 44 years, Dean, whom she married on October 24, 1981 in Arlington Heights, IL; her children, Joseph (Shannon) of Grovetown, GA, Timothy (Danna) of Libertyville, and Carolyn (Devin) of Ingleside; her grandchildren, Autumn, Odin, Phoenix, Ember, Jonathan “Jack”, and Callen; and her sister, Jeanna Etling. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Karen Grimmer and Mary Grimmer; and her parents.
A memorial visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, May 17, 2025 from 11am until 2pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Reach Rescue, Inc (372 Townline Rd, Mundelein, IL, 60060).
Adam Edward Hoth, 42, of Grayslake, IL passed away on May 4, 2025 in Waukegan, IL. He was born on February 25, 1983 in McKenzie, Tennessee to Dianna Causey and Steven Hoth.
Adam is survived by his parents, Dianna (Tyler) Causey and Steven (Maricela) Hoth; his son, Lucas; his grandmother, Margaret Tyler; his siblings, Jessica Hoth, Christopher Causey, Luis (Elizabeth) Larrea, Pablo Larrea, and Mario (Elizabeth) Perez; and his nephew, Jaxon Hoth. He is preceded in death by his aunts, Kandi Lappin, and Sue Hoth; his uncle, Dan Hoth; his cousin, Jeremy Hoth; his grandfathers, George Tyler and Vernon Hoth; and his grandmother, Marrianne Farning.
A Visitation and Funeral Service will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10am until 12 noon, with the service commencing at 12 noon. Interment will be held at Avon Centre Cemetery in Grayslake, IL. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
Karen M. Lennes, 54, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away May 4, 2025, at her home. She was born July 27, 1970, in Camden, NJ, to Craig and Cheryl Hammond.
Karen was known to all as a fierce advocate for her family, students, and community. She received her Bachelor’s in Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and was a proud Delta Zeta sister. She later received her Master’s in Education from Augustana College. As an educator, Karen thrived; she had a genuine passion for teaching and unconditional love for her students. She spent the majority of her career at Thompson Elementary in Lake Villa School District #41 on their fifth grade team. She always sought to “change her little corner of the world,” and she did – Karen worked tirelessly to create a classroom which was a safe space for all, especially for LGBTQ+ students. This work extended to her daily life where she was an active member of her community and local PFLAG organization. She always brought joy and laughter to the world around her and made sure that absolutely everyone was included in that joy. Karen will be remembered for her bright smile, her bad puns, her love of the Beatles, and walking her dog all around the neighborhood, rain or shine.
Karen is survived by her parents Craig and Cheryl Hammond, her children Scott Lennes, Amanda Lennes, and Charles Lennes, her siblings Michelle (Jeffrey) Hammond-Goddard, Kimberly (Alan) Webb, and Mark (Jennifer) Hammond, her nieces and nephews Amber Goddard, Joshua (Mikayla) Goddard, Summer Goddard, Taylor (Sara) Webb, Jake (Amber) Webb, Josephine Hammond, and Eve Hammond, and her great-nephews Lucas Goddard, Henry Goddard, Will Webb, James Webb, and Aaron Webb.
A visitation is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 2:00pm until 8:00pm. The Funeral Mass is scheduled for Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 10:00am at Prince of Peace Catholic Church 135 S. Milwaukee Ave. Lake Villa, IL. Interment will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to PFLAG https://pflag.org/, the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for LGBTQ+ people and those who love them. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847) 223-8122.
Samuel Gil, 31, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away April 30, 2025, at his home. He was born April 15, 1994, in Libertyville, IL, to Ramon Gil and Maria Muñoz Villada.
Sam was a bright light in our lives who made the world a little lighter and funnier just by being in it. He had a legendary sense of humor and the best defense in life: laughter. Whether it was a perfectly timed punchline, a sharp-witted comeback, or one of his unforgettable jokes, Sam had a gift for making people smile—even on the hardest days. His laugh was one of a kind: joyful, contagious, and full of life.
Sam deeply loved his family—his mom and dad, his brother, sisters, his nieces and nephews. He was the kind of uncle who always showed up with a joke and a big heart, and the kind of son and brother who was fiercely loyal and endlessly caring.
He shared a special bond with his beloved cats, Denna and Gnarls, who brought him comfort and joy.
Sam found happiness in the simple things—skateboarding with friends, listening to music (especially The Grateful Dead), and grilling up a good steak or his favorite arrachera. Those were the moments where he felt most himself— free, grounded, and content.
Though his time with us was far too short, Sam left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew him. He was deeply loved, and that love will live on in the laughter, stories, and memories we carry forward.
Rest easy, Sam. We’ll miss your laugh, your light, and your heart—always.
Samuel is survived by his mother Maria Muñoz Villada, his father Ramon Gil, his siblings John (Jolynn) Gil, Marbella (Christopher) Cotrone, and Marisella Gil, his nieces and nephews Maverick Gil, Nevaeh Gil, William Cotrone, Abbie Cotrone, and Luis Padilla, and his many aunts, uncles and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Maria Ascencion Gil Tellez, Pedro Gil, Tomas Muñoz, Aurelia Villada, and his uncle, Luis Muñoz.
A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. The funeral service will be held on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the funeral chapel at 10:00am. For more information, please log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Patricia Ann Lawrence, 90, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away April 28, 2025, at her home. She was born February 21, 1935, in Grayslake, IL to Ann and Roman Walz.
Pat married Evan ‘Bud’ Lawrence (Bernice & Evan Lawrence of Grayslake) after being introduced to her by his brother-in-law Norm. Evan is one of seven children.
Pat worked for and retired from the College of Lake County. She was a member of St. Gilbert Catholic Church. She enjoyed quilting and crafting. Pat and Bud frequented many a State and National Park over the years. And they thoroughly enjoyed going to Arizona and spending time in Apache Junction. Pat also enjoyed planning family picnics which were enjoyed by all.
Pat is survived by her husband of 68 years, Evan “Bud” Lawrence, whom she wed on February 2, 1957, at St. Gilberts Church, her children Pam (Tom) Spychala, Teri McKnight, and Karin (Mike) Johnson, her 7 grandchildren, and her 10 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sons David Evan Lawrence and Michael Evan Lawrence, her granddaughter McKenna Johnson and her siblings Walter (Marilyn) Walz of Lake Villa and Mary Lee (Gene) Ryan of Prior Lake, MI.
All funeral services were privately held and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Janet L. Weaver, 88, a longtime resident of Arlington Heights and most recently of Vernon Hills, IL, passed away peacefully April 27, 2025 at Brookdale of Vernon Hills, IL. She was born February 7, 1937, in St. Louis, MO to Herman and Lucille Pailer.
Janet is survived by her children, Kathleen Barone, John (Anne) Weaver, and Karen (Mike) Ellis; her daughter-in-law, Sandy Weaver; her grandchildren, Michael (Sabrina) Barone, Meghan (Eric) Schaar, Maryellen (Ben) Steele, Stephen (Heidi) Weaver, James Weaver, Jeffrey Weaver, and Colleen Weaver; her great-grandchildren, Finnigan and Oliver Schaar; and her brother Craig (Margaret) Pailer. Janet was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Robert Weaver Sr.; her son, Robert Weaver Jr.; and her son-in-law, Michael J. Barone.
If asked, Janet would say her greatest success was nurturing a loving family. She will be forever remembered with love and gratitude.
All services were privately held and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
June Y. Braden, 83, passed away on April 19, 2025 from complications of her strokes.
June was born on April 2, 1942, in Oglesby, OK to William Junior Yates and Louise Marie Benefiel Yates. June was a member of the Cherokee Nation and grew up in Oklahoma and southern Kansas with her parents, brothers and large extended family.
Upon graduating from High School in Bartlesville, OK in 1960, June set her sights on higher education and attended Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut, CA from 1960-1962. After taking a two year break from school to work, June was able to finance the rest of her college studies on her own and proudly graduated from California State University Los Angeles in 1966 with her BA in Education and a California Teaching Credential in Primary Education. June was the first person to graduate from college in her family.
After graduation June moved to Monterey, CA. and taught Special Education at Ft. Ord and the Fourth Grade in Marina, CA.; she also taught Fourth Grade in the Chico and Tiberon School Districts in California, and in the Wilmette School District in Illinois. June also taught Continuing Education courses for teachers in the use of computers in the classroom at Cal State University in Riverside, CA.
June married U.S. Army First Lieutenant William L. Braden on March 29, 1969, in Monterey, CA. Bill and June spent the first few years of their marriage finding adventure on nature trails throughout California, enjoying long weekends camping and hiking. June and Bill welcomed their sons Christopher Braden in 1975 and Gregory Braden in 1978. The Braden house quickly became the place where Christopher and Gregory’s friends would all gather; June and Bill were affectionately known as “Mama B” and “PapaB”.
Throughout their marriage, June and Bill enjoyed hiking, camping and backpacking in the mountains of California, Oregon, Washington and Utah; they traveled by car and camped in a variety of recreational vehicles in all 48 contiguous states and throughout southern Canada.
June suffered a severely disabling stroke in 1999 followed by another stroke in 2020, however she wouldn’t let her health challenges stop her from spending time in the great outdoors with Bill. June became a passionate supporter of outdoor education for young people and an advocate for accessibility for all at her local forest preserves and parks.
June is survived by her husband of 56 years, William Braden; her sons, Christopher (Jill) Braden of Gurnee, Illinois, and Gregory (Wayne) Braden of Chicago, Illinois; her grandchildren, Cooper Braden of Gurnee, Illinois, and Dakota Elizabeth Braden of Gurnee, Illinois; and brother, Gary (Deb) Yates of Ponca City, Oklahoma with whom she shared a special bond.
June was preceded in death by her parents and by her brothers, Ernie Yates of Bartlesville, Oklahoma and William “Butch” Yates of Ponca City, Oklahoma.
In lieu of flowers, we invite you to honor June Braden’s love for nature, and our environment by donating in her name to the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves. June held a special bond with the beauty of the outdoors, particularly during her “Walk’ n Rolls” at Rollins Savanna Preserve near her home with Bill. June’s family plans to continue to work with the Foundation and the Lake County Forest Preserves District to expand access to our preserves for the disabled, and to continue to educate young people throughout Lake County about the benefits and serenity of those preserves. Gifts can be made online at LCFPD.org/Tribute or by calling 847-968-3110.
All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
Chester F. Mazurek, 99, a resident of Round Lake Park, IL, passed away April 26, 2025, at his home. He was born August 14, 1925, in Argo, IL to Piotr and Mary Mazurek.
Chester was a veteran of the US Navy having served during World War II. He was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church in Round Lake and a member of the Knights of Columbus. Chester was a member of the American Legion in Round Lake and was a retiree of the US Postal Service after 30 plus years of employment. He also enjoyed playing golf.
Chester is survived by his children Deborah Mazurek, John (Candie) Mazurek, David (Cheryl) Mazurek, his grandchildren Brandon Mazurek, Matt (Kelley) Mazurek, Ryan (Alli) Mazurek, Alex (Jose Gonzalez) Mazurek, Sam (Brynn Weiss) Mazurek, Max Mazurek, Sara Mazurek, and Becca Mazurek, his great-grandchildren Grace and Liam, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Wanda Mazurek, his son Dwayne Mazurek, his brothers Edward and Matthew Mazurek, and his sister Rose Szymanski.
A visitation is scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. A funeral mass is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church Grayslake,, IL 60030 at 9:30am. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. Memorial donations can be made the Disabled Veterans of America https://www.dav.org/ . For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Loyeen Jo Woodruff – December 31, 1941 – April 17, 2025
Loyeen Jo Woodruff, 83, of Libertyville, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025.
Born on December 31, 1941, in McCook, Nebraska, Loyeen developed a lifelong love of learning, leadership, and service. She was active in the Rainbow Girls organization, serving as President, and graduated as Salutatorian of her Cambridge high school class in 1959.
She continued her education at Nebraska Wesleyan University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and English in 1963. During college, she was a proud member of Delta Zeta Sorority and worked at Miller and Payne Department Store. It was at Nebraska Wesleyan that she met the love of her life, Bill Woodruff. They married on August 11, 1963, beginning a beautiful partnership that lasted 50 cherished years until Bill’s passing in 2013.
After their marriage, Loyeen and Bill lived briefly in Omaha where Loyeen began her career teaching middle school girls’ P.E. and founded the school’s first synchronized swim team, while Bill completed his Master’s degree. They then moved to Texas A&M University, where Bill pursued his doctorate and Loyeen focused on building their family. Their son, Todd, was born in 1967. In 1969, the family relocated to Joliet, Illinois, where their daughter Tracy was born in 1970, followed by a move to Hinsdale and the birth of their daughter Susan in 1971.
Service and community were at the heart of Loyeen’s life. She served as Building Committee Chair at the Friendship United Methodist Church, Bolingbrook, was active in the PTA, volunteered as a Den Mother for Cub Scouts, and participated in the Newcomers Club. She also traveled extensively with Bill through his work with Argonne National Laboratory, developing a deep love of traveling and learning about cultures and cuisine.
Loyeen lived a vibrant and fulfilling life. She loved storytelling, cooking, playing cards with friends, hosting family gatherings, and meeting new people—believing that there were no strangers, only friends she had yet to meet. She took immense pride in her children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments and the joy they brought her. In her later years, Loyeen was one of the first residents of Green Oaks Senior Living in Libertyville, where she enjoyed bridge games, entertainment, and the companionship of many dear friends.
Loyeen is survived by her sister, Kathy Huddleston (Brad); her son, Todd Woodruff (Elizabeth) and grandchildren Madison, Ikaika, Joshua, and Jacob; her daughter, Tracy Woodruff Glass (Scott) and grandchildren Inman and Brin; and her daughter, Susan Woodruff and grandchildren Tia and Joseph.
A celebration of Loyeen’s life will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Friendship United Methodist Church in Bolingbrook, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Friendship United Methodist Church Building Campaign at https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=BMM727UQ6CWLS.
Loyeen will be remembered for her warmth, compassion, and her extraordinary gift for making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved. She will be dearly missed and forever held in the hearts of all who knew her. Be thou at peace. All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information please log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Terrence E. Monahan, 81, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on April 24, 2025, at Brickford of Gurnee Assisted Living. He was born on December 9, 1943, in Chicago to Robert and Mary Monahan.
Terrence was a devoted husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend. He was the proud owner of TRM Electric and a dedicated union electrician. A lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago White Sox, Terrence also had a love for western movies, especially those starring John Wayne. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether tending to his immaculate lawn and garden, relaxing on the front porch with a cocktail, swimming and boating, or organizing his garage. Terrence cherished traveling with his beloved bride and hosting gatherings, especially reunions with his elementary school friends. His loyal dog, Fuzzy, was always by his side. Terrence will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and love for family and friends.
Terrence is survived by his wife of 55 years, Rosalie (nee: Revere), whom he married on February 14, 1970 in Chicago, IL; his children, Daniel (Carrie) of Austin, TX, and Kelly (Brent) Thelen of Fox Lake, IL; his grandchildren, Andrew of Austin, TX, Paige of Austin, TX, Mallory of Austin, TX, Madalyn Ihnatiuk of Fox Lake, IL, Hamilton Thelen of Fox Lake, IL, and Collin Thelen of Fox Lake, IL; his sisters, Margaret (Jim) Marren of Lake Geneva, WI, and Mary (Rich) Marcheschi of Hinsdale, IL; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his infant twin sons, Timothy and Terrence Monahan; his brother Dennis P. Monahan; his parents; his parents-in-law, David and Rose Revere.
A Visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Paul of the Cross Catholic Church, 320 S. Washington Ave, Park Ridge, IL 60068 on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 10am. Interment will be held at All Saints Catholic Cemetery, 700 N. River Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016 immediately following Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sturge-Weber Foundation, 6105 S. Main Street #200, Aurora, CO 80016. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or www.StrangFuneral.org.
Karen S. Fenton, 64, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on April 20, 2025 at Swedish Hospital in Chicago, IL. She was born on October 22, 1960 in Chicago to Vernon and Barbara (nee Hitch) Magnuson.
Karen, lovingly known as “Snow” by her husband Dino, was a devoted member of Lord of Glory Lutheran Church. She gave back to the community through her volunteer work, most recently assisting with the Lord of Glory Food Pantry. Karen had a passion for travel, with Hilton Head, North Carolina, South Haven, Michigan and Hawaii among her favorite destinations.
Karen is survived by her husband of 42 years, Robert “Dino” Fenton, whom she married on September 25, 1982 in Chicago; her mother, Suzanne Magnuson; her children, John Erik (Stephanie) Fenton of Parker, CO, Joe Fenton of Kenosha, WI, and Karli Fenton of Englewood, CO; her grandchildren, Charlie and August Fenton of Parker, CO; and her sister, Linda Hardy of Chicago. She was preceded in death by her father, Vernon Magnuson; her birth mother, Barbara Hitch Magnuson; and her paternal grandparents, August and Angelique Magnuson.
Services will be held at Lord of Glory Lutheran Church, 607 W Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Monday, April 28, 2025. A visitation and time of gathering will be held from 12pm until 2pm. A memorial funeral service will be held at 2pm, followed by a luncheon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lord of Glory Church Food Pantry. All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
Albert A. Rizzo, 82, a resident of Fox Lake, IL, passed away April 20, 2025, at Aperion Care in Elgin, IL. He was born June 8, 1942, to Albert and Mary Rizzo.
Albert served in the US Air Force and was stationed in Germany in the early 1960’s. He enjoyed going to the local watering holes to watch his favorite teams, the Bulls, White Sox, and the Green Bay Packers, and his favorite pass time fishing. Albert led an independent life but always enjoyed spending time with his first and second cousins, who called him “Babe”. He was always appreciative of family and friends, who could drop off home cooked meals and desserts, especially Italian. Albert’s cousins and friends will miss him.
Albert is survived by several 1st cousins and many 2nd cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents.
All funeral services were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Arthur Joseph Mulholland, 86, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away surrounded by his family, April 16, 2025. He was born August 2, 1938, in Granite City, IL to Ellen (nee: Brennan) and Edward Mulholland.
Art was a proud veteran having served for the US Army. He loved to fish and travel and research his Irish genealogy, discovering family branches going back dozens of generations. But most of all he loved his family.
Art is survived by his wife of 26 years, Donna Mulholland, his children Susan (Randall) Kainrath, Michael Mulholland, Stephanie (Frank) Raemisch, Melissa Orme, and Leah Morgan, his grandchildren Brendan (Denise) Kainrath, Colin Kainrath, Michael (Kara) Raemisch, Sara Raemisch, Nicholas (Rebekka) Raemisch,Charles (Karla) Raemisch, and Matthew Raemisch, Aimee Thomson, and his great-grandchildren Benjamin, Penelope, Lyla, Cody, Theodore, Tynan, Ryder, Eiley, Hailey, and Olivia. He was preceded in death by his parents, his first wife Patricia (nee: Marcel) Mulholland, and his sister Kathleen McNamara.
A memorial visitation is scheduled for Thursday, April 24, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 8:00pm. The memorial mass is scheduled for Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church 301 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 at 11:00am. Inurnment will follow at Fort Sheridan in Highwood, IL. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tunnels to Towers www.t2t.org or Waldenstrom’s Fund www.iwmf.com.
Ronald Allan Spriester September 17, 1953 – April 9, 2025
Ronald Allan Spriester, a beloved husband, father, and brother, passed away peacefully at home in the arms of his loving wife on April 9, 2025, after a courageous four-year battle with cancer. He was only 71 years old.
Born at Great Lakes Naval Base in Illinois on September 17, 1953, Ron entered the world during his father’s Army service. Ron’s parents were Northwestern University music majors, with his father later serving as the band director at Deerfield High School for many years. Consequently, Ron and his siblings were introduced to music at an early age. Following in his father’s footsteps, he took up the trumpet and enjoyed playing well into his adult years in the Deerfield Community Band and The Big Band Sound of Deerfield.
Ron also inherited his maternal grandfather’s interest in carpentry, dedicating over 40 years to his craft. As a journeyman, Ron worked on hundreds of homes throughout Lake County, Illinois, and beyond. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of meticulous craftsmanship reflected in the quality of his work.
In 1984, Ron met the love of his life, Sharon Nolan, on a blind date. Together, they received Jesus as their Lord and Savior and were later married on September 19, 1987. Ron and Sharon chose to educate their three children at home and have had the joy and privilege of watching each of them succeed academically and build their own fulfilling lives. While their children were young, Ron volunteered many hours working at their local church, often bringing his son, Brett, along.
Following his retirement in 2014, Ron embraced the opportunity to serve his community by offering his carpentry skills to others and keeping up with village projects and board meetings. He also enjoyed visiting with friends and neighbors and cultivating his garden. He remained a dedicated Northwestern fan, attending as many sporting events as possible with enthusiasm and pride.
Ron was steady, honest, intuitive, thoughtful, and fun-loving. He wasn’t a man who sought attention but preferred to observe and support from the sidelines, profoundly touching the lives of those around him. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void, yet his legacy of love, faith, and humor endures in all who were lucky enough to know him.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Dorothy (née Zarbock). He is survived and deeply missed by his wife of 37 years, Sharon (née Nolan), and his children: Brett (Julie) Spriester of Wheeling, Janna (Justin) Scrivner of Lake Villa, and Bonnie (Andrew) Pierce of Mundelein. He also leaves behind his siblings: Pam (Paul) Bell, Sandy (Carl) Markowitz, Laurie (Russ) Davis, Terri Spriester, and Bart (Mary) Spriester, as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
A memorial gathering to honor Ron’s life will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel in Grayslake, Illinois. Visitation will take place from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., followed by a memorial service at 5:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Northwestern Memorial Foundation, supporting the ongoing search for cancer treatments and cures. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact 847-223-8122.
Austin W. Hudson, 87, of Round Lake, Il passed away on April 14, 2025, at Warren Barr North Shore in Highland Park, Il.
Life reflections of Austin W. Hudson…
Austin Walker Hudson was born April 23, 1937, in Wheeling, West Virgina. He was the oldest of six children parented by Ruth Davis and Alfred Hudson.
As a child, Austin loved sports. Baseball, Basketball and Football were his sports of choice, and he excelled in all three. While attending Lincoln High School, his basketball coach was instrumental in positioning him for an athletic scholarship to the University of Arkansas Pine Buff, formally known as Arkansas A.M. and N. He majored in pre-engineering as well as playing basketball and football. He was rated among the top basketball players in the Southwestern Conference.
While attending university, he met the love of his life, Mary Frances Nelson who was a speech and drama major. After graduating, they married on July 4, 1958, in Chicago Illinois and made a home on the south side. Austin gained employment with the Ford Motor Company in Chicago Heights and was a loyal and dependable employee for 46 years.
Austin and Mary gave birth to their only daughter, Cheryl Denise Hudson in 1961. Friends would affectionately call him Big Hut and his daughter, Cheryl, Little Hut for she was his heart. He was a wonderful father, uncle, a committed husband, brother and compassionate neighbor.
As a retiree, Austin enjoyed being a grandfather to twin grandsons and granddaughter, loved maintaining his home and interacting with neighbors. He was known for great expressions like, “I am doing the best I can while I can; God willing and the creek don’t rise and I am taking care of business.”
Austin was a no-nonsense man with a great sense of humor and a compassionate heart. He truly lived his life on his own terms. He had a good life and after his failing health, Austin made his departure April 14, 2025, at 8:50 pm. He was preceded in death by his parents, and siblings, Cecil, Sylvester and Karen.
He leaves to cherish his memories, his dutiful, loving wife Mary of 66 years, daughter Cheryl (Eric) Hudson-Jackson; grandchildren, Aaron (Ariel) Jackson, Ian Jackson, Taylor Jackson; his siblings, Delores Harris and David Hudson; and many nieces and nephews.
All funeral arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 East Belvidere Road, Grayslake, Il 60030. For more information, please contact Strang Funeral Chapel (847) 223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
John William Hill, Jr., 81, a resident of Lake Villa, IL, passed away April 4, 2025, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL. He was born March 25, 1944, in Chicago, IL to Gwendolyn and John W. Hill Sr.
John was a former volunteer with the Fox Lake Fire Department and a member of the Rising Sun Lodge in Grayslake, the Medinah Shrine, the Scottish Rite, and the Sports Car Club of America.
John is survived by his wife of 50 years, Vicki Hill, whom he wed on August 3, 1974, in Chillicothe, IL, and his siblings Jerrold (Jacqueline) Hill of Round Lake, IL, James (Carolyn) Hill of Grayslake, and Meredith (Keith) Rosenblum of Kansas City, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents Gwendolyn and John W. Hill Sr.
All funeral arrangements were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information please log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Hilda Thomas, 74, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away April 6, 2025, at Advocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL. She was born May 13, 1950, in Cuttula, TX to Thomas and Tomasit Osrio.
Hilda is survived by her children Steve (Peggy) McNutt of Round Lake, Karen McNutt of Round Lake, Lynn (Jerry) Pounds of Round Lake, and Terri (Larry) Lawrence of Bourbonnais, her grandchildren Christina Pounds of Round Lake and Kurtis Pounds of Round Lake. She was preceded in death by her parents Thomas and Tomasit Osrio, her husband Larry Thomas, and her sister Yolanda Osrio.
All funeral services were held privately and entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.
Cleotilde Rojas, 79, of Mundelein, IL, passed away on April 8, 2025, at her home in Mundelein, IL. She was born on July 9, 1945, in Mexico to Candelario Lopez and Soledad Rojas Hurtado.
Cleotilde is survived by her children, Julia (Salvador) Abonce of Vernon Hills, IL, Socorro (Mariano) Garcia of Mundelein, IL, Salomon Rojas of Mundelein, Teresa (Javier) Arellano, Jose (Rosalva) Rojas of Mundelein, IL, Soledad (Victor) Nava of Mexico; her grandchildren, Joseff Antoni, Gael Cruz, Mariano Jr., Leo, Agdalucia, Victor Adolfo Jr., Alondra, Elisabeth, Rosario, Teresa, Patricia, Griselda, Gardenia, and Salvador Jr: and her great-grandchildren, Carlos, Matthews, Mia, Denise, Anthony, Khole, Paola, Manuel, Little Fred, Penelope, Ray, David, Briana, Axel, Evelyn, Eleonor, and Hans.
A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Sunday, April 13, 2025, from 4 pm until 8 pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at Santa Maria del Popolo Catholic Church, 116 N Lake Street, Mundelein, IL 60060 on Monday, April 14, 202,5, at 10 am. Interment will follow at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.
