Marion A. “Mike” Wicinski, 87, a resident of Round Lake Beach, IL, passed away March 17, 2025, at his home.  He was born April 10, 1937, to Casmir and Catherine Wicinski in Chicago, IL. 

Mike was raised in Round Lake, IL and attended Grant Community High School in Fox Lake, IL. While in school, Mike could not quell the urge to serve his country in the United States Army. He enlisted and successfully completed a tour on the Korean Peninsula during the Korean War. Mike received an honorable discharge from the Army after serving and returning home.  He was very proud of his service to his country throughout his life.

After coming home, he would later meet the love of his life, ‘Patsy’. They married and began to build a life together. Their success together produced a wonderful home in Round Lake Beach filled with five loving children. Mike was extremely intelligent in mechanics. He worked at Fort Sheridan in North Chicago, IL as a mechanic for many years. His service and dedication earned him the privilege to retire in 1999. 

His family was his pride and joy. He instilled his knowledge and wisdom to his children with love and discipline. He took great pride in his home and cars.  The trim was always painted, and the grass always cut. However, most days you would find the garage door wide open with Mike managing the numerous projects inside. He worked on cars and other machinery in his free time with his friends, and kids often at his side.

He repaired and resold many vehicles over the years. His hard work eventually produced a completely restored 1922 Model T Touring painted a majestic Firetruck Red. Mike loved this car. His work of over a decade was so meticulous and detailed. From the hand-carved wooden spokes to the mirror-polished brass screws. His imagination, dedication, and hard work earned him awards at numerous car shows including ‘Best of Show’, which gave him great pride. If Mike wasn’t working on the cars, he was often off to a good cruise with his many other cars including a 1926 Model T Runabout in Edsal Ford Black, two Model A Fords, and his two Cadillacs; often blaring ‘Big Band’ era tunes.

Mike also loved to travel. Patsy and Mike experienced many places about the world, but they specifically loved Clearwater Beach, FL. From the beach to the hot-air balloon rides, their travels provided stories for decades for their family and friends. Their smiles and memories provided a legacy to be cherished.

Mike will be remembered for spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren along with his other family and close friends. Mike was a loving, caring, and devoted husband and father. He will be deeply missed.

Mike is survived by his children Michelle (Larry) Frederichs, Jeffrey Wicinski, Jerry (Vickie) Wicinski, Mary Pat (Tommy) Vepley, Maureen (Mike) Papp; his grandchildren Joshua (Charo) Wicinski, Natosha (Rob) Thormo, Vanessa Degand, Kraig (Alexandria) Wicinski, Michael (Sherry) Wicinski, Joey Wicinski, Christopher Wicinski, Geremi (Shannon) Wicinski, Jessica (Jerry) Mahoney, Kurtis (Haley) Vepley, Meagan Ratajczyk; his great-grandchildren Czara and Chay Wicinski, Jason, Kyle, and Raelyn Thormo, Annabelle, Kollins, and Karson Wicinski, Emma and Grace Wicinski, Brady and Jordan Wicinski, Landin Palmer and Zoey Cockrell, Rowen Vepley, and Eric Royal III; his siblings Joan (Connie) Walker, Danny Wicinski, Dolores Hagan, Martin Wicinski; his in-laws, Kathleen (Robert) Swieton, Larry McCann, Suzanne Wicinski, and Alfred Hertel; and his numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Patricia (McCann) Wicinski, his granddaughters Mallori Papp and Olivia Thormo, his siblings, Robert Wicinski, Norbert Wicinski, Tom Wicinski, Carol (Alfred) Hertel, and brother-in-law Joseph McCann.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Saturday, March 29, 2025 at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 10:00am until 2:00pm with the service commencing at 2:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view memorial video click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/DBNRY4Z8QNFFBX2R

Carmelo Palmayra Zapata, 82, a resident of Round Lake, IL, passed away March 19, 2025, at Integrated Palliative Care in Libertyville, IL.  He was born July 16, 1942, in the Philippines to Fredrick and Patrocinio Zapata.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030 from 11:00am until 1:00pm with the service commencing at 1:00pm.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

October 22, 2021 – March 14, 2025

Our precious son, Bennett “Benny” David Nelson, left us far too soon on March 14, 2025, at the age of 3. Benny passed away peacefully at Lurie’s Children’s Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, after falling ill and suffering an unexplained seizure with extraordinary complications. He leaves a legacy of kindness as an organ donor, giving the gift of life to other children and providing hope to their families.

Benny was born on October 22, 2021, in Highland Park, Illinois, and raised in Grayslake and Antioch, Illinois, by his parents, Tiffany Mae (Madeux/Glenn) and Bradley Edward Nelson. From the moment he entered the world, his small stature was no match for his enormous personality. With his raspy voice and boundless energy, Benny was always on the move, riding his tractor, playing in the mud, and living life with an exuberance that terrified and delighted everyone around him. He was wild, loving, and full of life—plus more.

Benny shared a special, unbreakable bond with his sister, Adalyn (5). Partners in crime, they filled each day with laughter, love, and endless adventures. From exploring the world together to embarking on imaginary quests, their connection was undeniable, and Benny’s love for Adalyn shone through in every shared secret and giggle. Benny will be deeply missed by his loving big sister.

A preschooler at Emmons/Grass Lake Schools, Benny had an undeniable curiosity and love for learning. He had a phenomenal vocabulary for his age, surprising everyone with his ability to articulate his thoughts. Benny loved schoolwork—it was amazing to see him sit still and focus, even though he had so much energy to burn. He loved doing puzzles, learning new dinosaur names, and recently mastering the art of riding a two-wheeler with training wheels. Benny had a love for music and dancing, always bobbing his head to the beat while playing his toy piano. He was known for giving the best hugs, and his infectious smile with sweet dimples made him impossible to forget.

Benny is survived by his loving parents, Tiffany and Bradley; sister, Adalyn; paternal grandparents, Wendy and David Nelson; maternal grandmother, Teri Sue Madeux; as well as several aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Cecil Rae Glenn.

Our family is deeply grateful for the love and support we’ve received during this heartbreaking time. In honor of Benny’s wild spirit and unshakable joy, please hold your loved ones close and cherish each moment life gives you.

A memorial visitation is scheduled for Friday, March 28, 2025, at Christ Church Crossroads 1350 IL 137 Grayslake, IL 60030 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm.  The Celebration of Life will be held at the church on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 10:00am.  Interment will be held privately.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana.  All funeral arrangements were 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.

https://bennys-dino-story.my.canva.site/remembering-benny

Vitalina Gonzalez, 50, of Wheeling, IL passed away on March 17, 2025.

A visitation will be held at Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 4pm until 8pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 114 Lincoln Ave, Round Lake, IL 60073 on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 9:30am.  Interment will be held privately. For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Zbigniew J. Sadowski, 68, of Grayslake, IL, passed away on March 15, 2025 at Adocate Condell Medical Center in Libertyville, IL.  He was born on October 18, 1956 in Poland to Feliks and Eugenia Sadowski.

Zbigniew is survived by his wife of 44 years, Barbara; his sons, Lukasz (Teresa) and Matt; his grandchildren, Nathanial, Dominic, and Charlotte; and brother, Jerzy (Barbara). Zbigniew was preceded in death by his parents, Feliks and Eugenia.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Transfiguration Catholic Church, 316 W. Mill Street, Wauconda, IL 60084 on Saturday, March 22, 2025 at 11am. A visitation will be held at church on Saturday from 10am until the start of Mass.  Interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. To send flowers, the family asks that you order through Mount Prospect Flowers https://www.mpflowers.com/ and call (847) 956-6000. 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.

Margaret Edith Kerr (June 3, 1955-March 14, 2025)

Margaret “Meg” Kerr, a resident of Round Lake, Illinois, passed away surrounded by her loving family. Meg was a parishioner of St. Gilbert Catholic Church in Grayslake and was for many years a member of its choir. She loved to travel (especially to Italy) and to cook (especially Italian food).

Born in Painesville, Ohio, to Francis and Eileen Kerr, Meg attended Riverside High School and then attended the University of Dayton, where she received a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in public policy. She worked for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services before relocating to northern Illinois in 1982. Thereafter, she was a longtime resident of Grayslake until moving to Round Lake in 2022. Her career experiences included an executive consulting and training company (Executive KnowledgeWorks), an insurance company (MMI Companies, Inc.), and the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. (AAAHC), where she rose to the position of vice president.

Meg is survived by her brothers, Michael F. Kerr and Thomas J. Kerr; Tom’s former wife, Robin Pease Gura and their two children, Sarah Pease-Kerr and Daniel Pease-Kerr; and Meg’s loving Keefe cousins, Margy, Larry, Kevin, Ginny, Katy, Patty, and Johnny, as well as their many children. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, from 4:00 pm until 8:00 pm. A funeral mass is scheduled for Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at St. Mary of the Annunciation Cemetery in Mundelein. Memorial donations may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, www.komen.org. For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122. 

To watch the funeral mass via live stream click here: https://youtube.com/channel/UCMP0PFhS_wyXxgsTzbPEEyw

To view slideshow click here:https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/48TT7Z762TMH7STR

Michaela Autumn Murphy-Stein (24) of Richmond, IL, was called home to her Heavenly Father on March 9, 2025, at Northwestern Hospital in McHenry, IL, surrounded by her loving family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Tyler Stein; her father, Michael Murphy; her mother, Melissa Murphy (née Turnes); her brothers, Marshall (Amy) Murphy, Matthew Murphy, Malachi Murphy, Mannix Murphy, and Maxson Murphy; her sister, Myla Murphy; her grandparents, Thomas Murphy, Diane Murphy, and Gail Turnes; and many uncles, aunts, and cousins who cherished her deeply.

She was preceded in death by her grandfather, Wayne Turnes; her aunt, Rosemary Murphy; and her aunt, Jenny Castillo, who welcomed her into the arms of the Lord.

Michaela was a radiant beacon of Christ’s love, a devout Christian whose heart overflowed with devotion to her Savior. She delighted in helping others and brightened the lives of everyone who knew her, reflecting the grace usually known as the sweetest soul one could ever encounter. Michaela’s outgoing spirit and genuine love for people touched countless lives. She approached every endeavor with excellence, a testament to the gifts God bestowed upon her. Her absence leaves an unfillable void, but her legacy of faith, kindness, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, until they are reunited in the glory of God’s eternal kingdom.

Michaela was a loving and loyal wife who was well known for her strong faith in God. She loved her church and bringing friends, family, and even strangers closer to God. Michaela had a kind soul and her beauty was seen both inside and out. She enjoyed spending time with Tyler taking on all kinds of new adventures. They loved to cook together and try new recipes. Michaela enjoyed spending time in nature and at home relaxing. No one would be surprised to catch her watching her favorite movie Coraline or Sponge Bob. She and Tyler had planned on purchasing a home before she became ill. Words cannot describe the love and connection that Tyler and Michaela had for each other.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday at The Chapel, 1966 W Hawley St, Mundelein Illinois from 4pm until 8pm. A funeral service will be held immediately after at The Chapel at 8pm. Burial will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville on Wednesday, March 19, 2025 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:

https://gofund.me/e6720d55

All arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. For more information, please call (847) 233-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org

Mark A. Mirando, 64, a resident of Grayslake, IL, passed away March 5, 2025, at his home.  He was born November 9, 1960, in Cleveland, OH, to Nicholas and Loretta Mirando.

Mark was a man who found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He had a passion for boating, fishing, and classic cars, and his love for these hobbies was only rivaled by his love for spending time with family and friends. Whether it was shooting pool, playing his favorite songs on repeat (much to their amusement), or sharing a good laugh, Mark was always the life of the party.  

A dedicated business owner, Mark worked tirelessly, but he always knew how to play just as hard. He was quick with a one-liner, loved giving everyone a nickname, and had a playful sense of humor that kept everyone on their toes. Mark’s generosity was evident in the way he cared for his loved ones, always offering a helping hand whenever it was needed. 

He had an incredible memory, an impressive knowledge of classic films (especially The Godfather, where he knew every line), and loved unwinding with sports. Whether it was golf, pool, or bowling, Mark was always up for a challenge and excelled at whatever he put his mind to. Mark will be remembered for his wit, his warmth, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. He was a great friend, a loving family member, and an unforgettable presence in the lives of those who knew him.

Mark is survived by his wife, Susan Mirando, his mother Loretta Mirando, his children Gina Mirando and Joey (Alison) Mirando, his grandchildren Benjamin, Isabelle, Hunter, Royce, Wyatt, Anthony, and Annalise, his sisters Michelle Lannan and Natalie Mirando, and his nephews and great nephews.  He was preceded in death by his dad Nicholas Mirando and his son Tim Mirando.

A visitation and funeral service are scheduled for Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium 410 E. Belvidere Rd. Grayslake, IL 60030, from 10:00am until 1:00pm with the service commencing at 1:00pm.  Interment will be held privately.  For more information log onto www.strangfuneral.org or contact (847)223-8122.

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/93G6GQGRXFPY8JMF

Mary A. Howell, 78, of Waukegan, IL, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on January 28, 1947, to Joseph and Myrtle Skalla (Dreyer), Mary was raised in Waukegan and remained deeply connected to her hometown throughout her life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Mary was the heart of her family, always putting others first and offering endless love, kindness, and wisdom. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering strength touched the lives of everyone who knew her.

Mary graduated from Waukegan Township High School in 1965. Later in life, she pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a Certified Nurse Technician. She dedicated her career to the labor and delivery floors at St. Therese and Lake Forest Hospital, where she found immense joy in supporting mothers and newborns. Her gentle touch and compassionate care left a lasting impact on countless families. She continued this meaningful work until her retirement.

Beyond her career, Mary had a deep love for traveling, soaking up the sun, and spending time by the water, where she found peace and happiness.

Mary is survived by her beloved children, Donna, Joseph (Cynthia), Denise (Steve), Michael (Mandi), and Diane (Dan), who were her greatest pride and joy. She was a cherished grandmother to Ashley, Alyssa, Jenny, Emily, Katie, Allison, Christian, Ethan, Logan, Tyler, Zachary, Isabella, and Laney, and a proud great-grandmother to Eli, Jade, Erin Grace, Alaia, Lea, Zoe, and baby Cane on the way. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and her dear sisters, Barbara, Margaret (John), and Georgine, who shared a lifetime of love and memories with her.

Mary’s loyal and loving pet, Lily, was always by her side, providing her with endless comfort and companionship.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Myrtle Skalla; and her brothers-in-law, Ronald Baruffi and Ron Rehor.

Though Mary will be deeply missed, her family finds peace knowing she is now at rest, reunited with those who went before her. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church (301 E. Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL), followed by burial at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville. Visitation will be held at St. Gilbert from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on the same day.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for all the love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Mary’s kindness, strength, and love will never be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory can be made to Journey Hospice.

Ronald (Ron) Alfred Smejkal, 81, a resident of Wildwood, Illinois, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025 at home. He was born on April 12, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois to Irvin and Alice Smejkal. Ron moved to Wildwood, Illinois at age 7. 

He was a graduate of Warren Township High  School in 1961, where he met his highschool sweetheart and beloved wife of 62 years, Kathryn (Katy). Ron and Katy got married in June 1962. 

After graduation, he joined the U.S. Navy, where he was a Fire Control Tech on submarines for 10 years. Ron also worked at the Commonwealth Edison nuclear power plant in Zion, Illinois for 27 years as a senior work analyst. 

Ron was a square dance caller for 16 years and was the Walk ‘N’ Dodgers club caller from 1989-2001. 

Ron spent much of his time walking forest preserves or Gurnee Mills mall with his wife, Katy, where he learned to say good morning and good afternoon to people in 16 different languages. He also enjoyed adding to his various collections. Ron was known in the area as the keychain guy. He gathered an impressive collection over the years that totaled 56,700 different keychains. 

Ron was hardworking, generous, reliable, and was always willing to do anything for his family. He will be missed dearly. 

Ron is survived by his wife, Kathryn (Katy) Smejkal; his four children, James (Linda) Smejkal, Ron (Sharel) Smejkal, Tabitha Zaehringer, and Jon Smejkal; his grandchildren, Thomas Smejkal, Josh Smejkal, Tony Smejkal, Marissa Zaehringer, and Andrew Zaehringer; his sister, Lorraine (Glen) Hett of Sheridan, Wyoming; and his many nieces and nephews. 

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. 

Jacqueline “Jackie” S. Waldron, 50, of Gurnee, IL, passed away on March 4, 2025, at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital. She was born on August 31, 1974, in Waukegan, IL, to James and Jo Ann Waldron.

Jackie was a devoted member of Gurnee Community Church, where she found joy in volunteering and participating in various groups. She was a loving and involved mother who cherished spending time with her children. Jackie loved camping with her children and loved visiting national parks and walking around in them. Jackie and Gracelyn loved watching their favorite shows together and she loved her time with Oli driving around and spending time together. Jackie would enjoy watching Cora design all her crafts. Jackie also loved her cats Tic, Tac and Toe. 

She is survived by her parents, Jo Ann and James Waldron; her beloved children, Hailey “Oli” Petrovic, Gracelyn Petrovic, and Cora Petrovic; her brother, Joe (Tasha) Waldron, and their children, Katelynn and Samuel; her cousin, Chris (Chelsea) Mullally, and their children, Keagan (Kylee), Luke, Kaycee, and Matthew. She was preceded in death by her grandparents and her godmother.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 9, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Strang Funeral Chapel & Crematorium, 410 E. Belvidere Rd., Grayslake, IL 60030. Visitation will continue on Monday, March 10, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Gurnee Community Church, 4555 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee, IL 60031, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Millburn Cemetery in Millburn, IL.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gurnee Community Church. For more information, please visit www.strangfuneral.org

To view slideshow click here: https://www.tributeslides.com/tributes/show/82D6LZGCML2J62HN

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Annamarie Bonelli, aged 80, on February 27, 2025. Born on June 11, 1944, in Palermo, Italy, Annamarie’s remarkable journey took her from the shores of Sicily to the heart of America, where she built a life full of hard work, love, and generosity.

Annamarie is survived by her husband, Richard; her daughter, Erika (Jennifer Schultz) Bonelli; and her grandchildren, Zachary and Tyler Bonelli-Schultz. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Nick, Mario and Joseph DiGiovanni.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Gilbert Catholic Church, 301 E Belvidere Road, Grayslake, IL 60030 on Tuesday, March 4, 2025 at 11am. A memorial visitation will be held at church on Tuesday from 10:30am until the time of Mass.  Arrangements were entrusted to Strang Funeral Chapel, 410 E Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL 60030.  For more information, please call (847)223-8122 or visit www.StrangFuneral.org.

Phyllis A. Slimko (Weis), formally of Grayslake, IL passed away peacefully at JourneyCare Hospice Center on January 30, 2025 in Barrington, IL at the age of 93. Born in LaSalle, IL in 1931, Phyllis was the only child of loving parents, John and Grace Kinnegar. In her younger years, Phyllis worked at Westclox in Peru, IL, where she contributed to the renowned clock manufacturing industry that kept time for so many. Later in life, she became a switchboard operator at Sanyo Fisher Service where her voice connected people across distances with warmth and efficiency. Phyllis had a passion for dance that never faded. Whether gliding gracefully across a ballroom floor or embracing the rhythm of country music, dancing was one of her greatest pleasures. She also had a deep love for animals and cherished her beloved “poochies” Lexi and Amber, who brought her endless companionship and happiness.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Ronald Weis and stepson, Thomas Weis. She is survived by her daughter, Michelle Armes; her granddaughter, Rebecca (Rick) Compton; her stepchildren, Michael (Lori) Weis, Christine Weis, and Joan Weis; as well as stepgrandchildren, Samantha, Jason, Brian, and Connor.

Per her wishes, no funeral services will be held. The family wishes to send their gratitude to her long-term caregiver Amanda Lawson and to the staff at JourneyCare for their care and compassion.  Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America in her honor.  Phyllis’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her unconditionally. 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. 

Marty J Ziemer of Grayslake passed away early Monday morning on February 17 at Condell Hospital. In her typical stubborn fashion, she refused to listen to the staff who were sure she was going to pass away on Sunday.

Marty was born in Oconto, WI in 1947 and was the youngest of nine. She is preceded in death by her siblings Bobby, Delores, Dorothy and Margaret and is survived by Ronald, Elaine, Joan and Mary Therese. She is also survived by her daughter, Kim and her son, Keith, as well as her grandchildren Thomas, Daniel, Kate and Daxton. She had as many nieces and nephews as there are grains of sand on a beach. Marty also will be missed by many friends. Special mention to her friend Barb who was one of the first neighbors Marty met when she moved to Grayslake in 1975 and has remained one of her best friends since then.

Marty earned her masters degree in clinical social work from George Williams College and opened her  private practice in 1987. She never advertised, and grew her practice from referrals and word of mouth. She will be greatly missed by her current and prior clients. She loved what she did, and often said she learned as much from her clients as she taught them. She never stopped working, and had a full day of therapy sessions scheduled on the day she died.

Marty lived a life of adventure; she spent many years riding her motorcycle and traveling (she especially loved Ireland and Oregon), eating at restaurants with friends and spending time with her dogs. She always listened closely, did not judge and was always willing to help. She was generous with her time, and enjoyed drinking a Stella beer while sitting on her patio with a friend. Marty would always say the worst swear word in the dictionary is “should.” Fiercely independent, she lived life on her terms and never really worried about what others might say. She often drove too fast, could never remember her passwords and tried to recycle everything. She liked listening to Josh Groban, Billy Joel and John Denver (“Take Me Home Country Roads” was the last song she heard.)

Per her request there will be no funeral service, possibly because she knew she would find a way to be late to it. Instead, please honor her memory by planting something, creating something or writing something in a journal. All funeral arrangements were 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.

Michael Anthony DeRose, 57 years old, of McHenry, IL and formally of Libertyville, IL, passed away on February 21, 2025. He was born March 26, 1967, in Libertyville, IL, to Jerry and Doris DeRose. Michael loved his friends and family with all his heart. He wore his heart on his sleeve. He loved working on old cars, riding motorcycles and going fishing. He was a member of St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church.

Michael is survived by his sons, Dylan and Collin DeRose; his fiancé, Julie Dalson; his siblings, Debra ( Larry ) Brandimore, Sandy ( Paul ) Quinn, Jerry III ( Tina ) DeRose, Terry (Tina Mucciante ) DeRose, Larry ( Bonnie ) DeRose, Dena ( Bernie Kainz ) DeRose, Carmella ( Warren ) Sundt, Donna ( Steve ) Klein, and Michelle Garrity; his former wife, Amanda DeRose, many nieces and nephews, and cousins.

A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church, 40000 US-45, Lake Villa, IL 60046 on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 12pm. A visitation will be held on Saturday at Church from 10am until 12pm. Interment will be held at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville, IL. 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.