Obituary of Denise Marie Spires

Denise Marie Spires

(nee Thorson)

Denise Marie Spires, age 70, of Shorewood, IL, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Christ Hospital in Oak Lawn. Denise was born in Chicago, IL on May 16, 1955, to the late Edwin and Ethel (nee Schultz) Thorson.

Denise was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose loving and friendly spirit touched all who knew her. She married her beloved husband, Herschel Spires in Las Vegas, and together they shared 32 years of marriage.

For 43 years, Denise dedicated her professional life to working with DCFS. Her long and faithful service reflected her deep commitment to helping others and making a difference in the lives of children and families. Colleagues and those she served will remember her kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

Denise lit up any room she walked into. Very social and warm-hearted, she had a way of making everyone feel welcome, and it was often said that everyone loved her. Her laughter, presence, and easy conversation brought joy and comfort to family and friends alike.

In her leisure time, Denise enjoyed traveling, especially with her family. She loved her trips to Las Vegas and the excitement of gambling, with a special fondness for roulette—her lucky number was always 17. These moments of fun, shared stories, and time spent together created treasured memories that her loved ones will hold close.

Denise is survived by her husband, Herschel; her son, Jack (Chris Battershell) Rein; her daughters, Michelle Rein and Tricia (James) Bonner; her grandchildren, Christian, Tiffany, Brandon, Alexis, and Jacob; and her great-grandson, Liam.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Edwin and Ethel Thorson; her son, Mark Edwin Rein (2014); and her siblings, Darlene Adams, Jack Thorson, and Ronald Thorson.

Funeral Services for Denise Marie Spires will be held at 11:00 a.m., on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Rd., Joliet, IL.  Interment will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood.  Visitation will be held at the funeral home chapel on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.

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