Madeline J. Vitrano

September 30, 1924 - January 3, 2020

Madeline J. Vitrano, Age 95 On January 3, 2020, the 44th anniversary of her beloved mother's death, Madeline died peacefully with her children by her side and joined her mother in heaven. Born as Michelina then known as Margaret, Marge, Maggie, May, Mick and finally as Madeline, she was the oldest of eight children born to Italian immigrants Francesca and Luco Pavone. She graduated from eight grade and then remained at home to help raise her brothers and sisters so her mother could go to work. While she didn't have a formal education, Madeline's heart was filled with knowledge. She knew how to love fiercely, forgive truly, give selflessly, and care deeply for others.. Madeline met her future husband, Russell Vitrano, when his family moved in next door. They married during World War II and Russell went off to war in the Army. She raised her children in the Chicago neighborhood of Bridgeport, living in the second floor flat above her parents. Sundays with the extended family were always filled with great food and much laughter. Madeline instilled in her children a strong sense of commitment, curiosity, respect and responsibility. She never learned to drive but she was not afraid to explore and took many memorable trips both here and abroad. While losing her husband at 62 was difficult and painful, she nonetheless remained strong and independent and lived alone in her own home until age 85. She then moved into an assisted living facility in Naperville. Blessed with nine grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren, Nonnie was able to give her love to each of them and forged many happy memories. Madeline was a strong, faith-filled woman who made friends wherever she went. She thought of others before herself and truly set an example for all of us to follow. She was determined to keep her family close-knit and together. She leaves a hole in our hearts. Madeline J. Vitrano, nee Pavone, 95. Beloved Wife of the late Russell L. Vitrano, Sr. Loving Mother of Marylou (Sig) Gadin, Michaline ( Chuck) Korponya and Russell Jr. Proud Grandmother of 9 ; Great Grandmother of 15. Cherished Sister of John, Luke, Mary and the late Rose, Joseph, Peter and Frank. She will be dearly missed by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews. Visitation Tuesday, January 7, 2020 from 3PM to 9PM at FORAN FUNERAL HOME, 7300 W. Archer Ave.(55th street just west of Harlem). Visitation at the funeral home on Wednesday, 8:30 AM until time of prayers at 9:30AM. We will go in procession to St. Rene Goupil Church for a 10 AM Mass of Christian Burial. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. Please omit flowers. Our thoughts turn to you to share a joy, ease a sorrow, relay some news or an update but you’re not there. We remember your laughter, miss your smile and the way you made us feel so special. We know now, the best part of your day was hearing from one of us. We’ve been told: Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear. We love you so much, Mom January 3, 2020