Obituary of Arlene M. Cardilli

Arlene M. Cardilli, age 92, of Romeoville, IL, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Endeavor Health Edward Hospital, Naperville, IL.  She was born on September 18, 1933, in Chicago, to the late Gertrude (Nessling) and Frank Rakoncay.

Arlene grew up on the northside of Chicago.  She married Michael A. Cardilli in November of 1954.  Together they raised three children and she was the quintessential mom and later, grandma and great-grandma.  She was a natural caregiver and took great care of her husband when his illness progressed, as well as, helping and taking in others as the need would arise.  She always strived to help others.  Arlene was a current member of Three Rivers Church/Compass Church, in Plainfield, IL, where she enjoyed making friends and lasting relationships.

She is survived by her children, Michael F. (Debbie Rapsky) Cardilli and Lois (Rob) Barry; grandchildren, Michael F. (Kim) Cardilli, Lisa (Eric) Stenholm, Nicholas Cardilli, Joe (Sarah) Mateja, Angel Henry, Kelly Barry, and Geena Barry; great-grandchildren,   Michael A. and Anthony M. Cardilli, Morgan, Bode, and Everett Stenholm, Avery and Emma Mateja; and dear friends, Anne Walchauser, Sharon and Neal Jones.

Arlene is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael A. Cardilli; loving daughter, Karen Henry; and brother, Frank Rakoncay.

A memorial service for Arlene M. Cardilli will be held on February 7, 2026, from 11:30-12:30 p.m. at Compass Church-Three Rivers Campus, 23901 W. Rolf Road, Plainfield, IL 60586.  She will be inurned at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL. 

For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.