Obituary of Stella Orasco

Orasco, Stella Marie (nee Arreguin) Age 74, of Shorewood, passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by her loving family, Thursday, August 16, 2012 after a long, courageous battle against leukemia. She was born in Ottawa, IL July 11, 1938 to the late Stefana (Padilla) and Joseph Arreguin and had resided in the Joliet/Shorewood area for many years. Survived by her beloved children, Cheryl Lukas, Susan (Rafael) Barreto, Rick Orasco and Laura (David) Gray; seven grandchildren, RJ (Sherry Valdovinos) and Robert (Ashley Gritsuk) Miranda, Stephanie Barreto, Philip M. (Kelsey Caldwell) and Adyson Orasco, Ashley and Aaron Gray, and two great-grandchildren, Chase and Gabriela Miranda with another due in January of 2013. Dearest sister of Margaret (Freddie) Contreras, Albert "Butch" Arreguin, Sandra Schultz and Richard Arreguin; fond aunt of many nieces and nephews; and many cousins also survive. Preceded in death by her husband of 54 years, Philip John Orasco (2011); her parents; one brother Johnny Arreguin and one sister Linda Joyce. Stella's first job was a waitress at the Brite Spot Restaurant in Ottawa, IL. After staying home to raise her family, she worked as a food server for the Joliet Township High Schools District #204 and retired in 1992. She was a member of St. Ann Catholic Church in Channahon, IL. Stella was very devoted to her family. There was nothing more important to her than spending time with her late husband, Phil, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She always enjoyed her family gatherings and family traditions. Her favorite past times were attending her grandchildren's activities, shopping, cooking, listening to music, dancing and decorating her home. Throughout the years her strong will enabled her to face the many challenges of her disease. Stella will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, generous heart, and strong faith. Whether she knew you for a lifetime or a casual meeting, she always welcomed you with a warm hug. Funeral Services for Stella M. Orasco will be Monday, August 20, 2012 at 9:30 a.m. from the funeral home to St. Ann Catholic Church, Channahon for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m. Entombment Woodlawn Memorial Park. Memorials to Joliet Oncology and Hematology Association (JOHA) Foundation, St. Ann Catholic Church and Joliet Area Community Hospice would be greatly appreciated. Visitation Sunday, 2-8 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rd., Joliet For information (815) 741-5500