Dolores Perez

Dolores “Dee” Padilla Perez died peacefully in her sleep surrounded by her loving family on October 29, 2020. She was born on October 26, 1934 and was raised in Lake County, Illinois. She was a graduate of the WTHS class of 1953. The following year, she married the love of her life, Martin. To this union, 5 children were born: Angela, Amelia “Mia” (Charles) Pryor, Anthony, Andrew and Annette and one granddaughter, Tash. Dee and Martin celebrated 66 wonderful years of marriage. She was preceded in death by her parents, Manuel and Elodia Padilla; son, Andrew; brothers, Rudy and Eddie; sister-in-law Betty Padilla; sister-in-law, Rita Manry; brother-in-law Manuel Blea; niece, Christina Calderon; and special grandson, JC Lindsey. Survived by her brother, Joseph; sister, Helen (Frank) Calderon; sister-in-law, Raquel Blea. Others who will miss the love of Dee include Mia’s daughter, Ladena Chisum; and grandsons Tyree, Tyson, Tyreon; granddaughter, Savannah; Elijah James Lindsey, the Kidd Family and all of those special friends who lovingly called her mom and grandma. Plus, many nieces, nephews, numerous relatives and many, many friends. Dee was affectionately known as “little lady” and “momasita.” All those who knew this little lady will truly miss her. She was an original parishioner of Our Lady of Humility. An avid gardener, spending hour after hour in her garden. Chicago sports fan including Walter Payton and the Bears, Michael Jordan’s Bulls, Ray Meyer’s DePaul, Karl Heinz Granitiza’s Sting. She went to every little league game that JC played in, being his biggest cheerleader. Frequent flyer to Mexico to include her mom and dad’s hometowns, many trips to San Antonio with Ray Fernandez and friends…making sure all would save a week vacation to have fun at the Fiesta. They rolled down the Mississippi River in their houseboat many times with their friends known as the River Rats. During all of their travels, she made many lasting friendships along the way. Snowbirds for over 20 years in Tucson where she picked up her love for knitting and crocheting again. She also loved to scrapbook and created several special books filled with oh so many precious memories. Just as she was mom and grandma to so many, she loved all of her grand dogs as she liked to call them. Babysitting the grand dogs while the kids were at work. A heartfelt thank you to the special angels of Star Hospice. We appreciate all of the love and support that you shared with us during a very difficult time. Memorial services to be held at Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, Illinois on November 5 from 3:00 pm – 6:00 pm with a service at 5:00 pm. Interment will be at a later date.