Obituary of Robert Perona

Perona, Robert J. "Lou" Age 78, of Joliet, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 14, 2012 at Joliet Area Community Hospice Home surrounded by his devoted family. Born June 9, 1934 in Joliet he was a graduate of Joliet Central High School, Class of 1952. He was a veteran of the U. S. Army serving with the Army Combat Engineers from 1953-55. Following service, he drove for eight years for Schiek Motor Express, later relocating to Arizona where he was employed by Circle K Corporation for 15 years. In 1980 he and his family returned to Joliet, and founded Sugar Creek Liquors which he operated for 30 years until the time of his death. Lou loved to golf, playing three times a week in his prime, and especially enjoyed winter golf trips to Biloxi. He also had a passion for bowling and was a member of numerous leagues. Surviving are his beloved wife, Elizabeth A. "Bettian" (nee Marchio) Perona, who he married November 12, 1955 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church, Joliet. He is also survived by three children, Denise Meintel, Sheryl (Steven) Reinhardt, and Robert "Rob" (Felicia) Perona; six grandchildren, Rayme and Ehren Meintel, Mary Rose Reinhardt, Jillian Perona, Stephaine (Pierre) Robertson, and Jennifer Jorman; one great-grandson, Zion Pierre Robertson; one sister, Marilyn (Jerry) Comeau; three brothers, Tom Perona, Larry (Lori) Perona, and Jim (Jenine) Perona; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Also left to cherish his memory is his "Band of Brothers", Ray Gerencher, Jack Fisher, John Argoudelis, Bob Gerencher and the late Ron Schiek and Charlie Breen, all of whom he felt blessed to have as his special friends. Preceded by his parents, Dominic J. and Merle W. (nee Holmes) Perona; two grandchildren, Louis "Louie" Meintel (2009) and Lauren Elizabeth Ley (1993); and one sister, Joyce Marie Perona (1944). Funeral services for Robert J. Perona will be Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at 12:15 p.m. from the funeral home to the Church of St. Jude for Mass at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be private. Visitation TUESDAY from 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at: FRED C. DAMES FUNERAL HOME 3200 Black at Essington Rds., Joliet For information: (815) 741-5500