McKenzie Funeral Home

Aurora Tenorio Mendez
January 6, 1930 – September 22, 2026

Aurora Tenorio Mendez, 96, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, cherished memories, and a family who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Born on January 6, 1930, Aurora was a proud graduate of Martin High School in Laredo, Texas. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend.

Aurora was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Adam Mendez Sr.; her parents, Luisa Medina and Rodolfo Tenorio Sr.; her sisters, Alicia T. Ramirez, Elisa Campos, and Soledad Castillo; her brothers, Raul Garcia and Patricio Campos; and her nephew, Arturo Ramirez Jr.

She is survived by her son, Adam Mendez; her grandchildren, John, Joseph, and Natalie; her granddaughter-in-law, Melinda; her grandson-in-law, David; and her great-grandchildren, Addison, Mason, and Aiden. She is also survived by her niece, Alma R. Ortiz; great-niece, Raquel Ortiz; and great-nephews, Ramiro Ortiz Jr., John A. Lenington, and Abel Ramirez, along with extended family and loved ones.

Aurora adored her grandchildren and treasured every opportunity to spend time with them. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great joy in watching her family grow. She lovingly welcomed their spouses and children into the family and cherished the special relationships she shared with each of them.

She was also a wonderful cook who took great pride and pleasure in preparing food for the people she loved. Her kitchen was a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and love was expressed through every meal. Aurora also had a special love for animals, another reflection of her gentle and caring nature.

Those who knew Aurora will remember a woman whose greatest joy was her family. Her love, traditions, recipes, stories, and the countless moments she shared with those around her will continue to live on through the generations.

Though she will be deeply missed, Aurora’s family takes comfort in knowing that her life was filled with love and that her memory will remain forever in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She was deeply loved, she will be greatly missed, and she will never be forgotten.

Memorial Service
Fri, October 9, 2026
9:00 am - 12:00 pm (Central time)
McKenzie Funeral Home
15618 S Cicero Ave, Oak Forest, IL 60452

Fri, October 9, 2026
12:30 - 1:30 pm (Central time)
Good Shepherd Catholic Cemetery and Mausoleum
16201 104th Ave, Orland Park, IL 60467

Charlann Madsen (née Fredrickson)

Charlann Madsen, née Fredrickson, was a deeply loved mother, Nana, and great-grandmother whose life was centered around the family she loved. She leaves behind generations of family, countless memories, and a presence that will be deeply missed by those who knew and loved her.

Charlann was born to Elizabeth and Elmer Fredrickson and was their only child. Born and raised in Oak Forest, Illinois, she was a longtime clerk at Motto’s Foods and later White Hen Pantry, where she became a familiar face to many in the community.

Charlann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Anton “Tony” Madsen, and her granddaughter, Joyce, who passed away far too young.

Charlann and Tony shared a wonderful life together. They traveled, made countless memories, and Tony spoiled her every chance he got. She deeply missed him after his passing, and her family finds comfort in knowing they are together again.

Charlann was the proud mother of Edward (Debra) Swanson, Shirley Swanson, and Beth (Butch) Swanson.

One of her greatest joys was being Nana. She was the proud grandmother of Heather (Alex), whom she raised as her own daughter, Lauryn, Tim (Rebecca), Tristian (Calie), Joyce, and Samantha (Taylor), and the extremely proud great-grandmother of her namesake, Charleigh Anne, Johnny, Addy, Tay, Salem, and Cable.

Charlann leaves behind a lifetime of memories and a family who will carry pieces of her with them always. She was Mom, Nana, and Great-Nana, and the space she held in the lives of those who loved her can never truly be filled.

She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and remembered always.

Cremation rites have been accorded

Michael James O'Connor, age 73, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away on September 23, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

Mike was the devoted husband of Susan Carole O'Connor for 51 wonderful years. Together they built a loving family and shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unwavering commitment. He was the cherished son of the late James and Marie O'Connor, beloved brother of Rita Sarney and the late Marie "Tootsie" Morgan, and a proud father to Jeanine Holubecki and Kevin O'Connor.

Nothing brought Mike greater joy than his role as grandfather to his five beloved grandchildren, Mia, Sara, and Grace Holubecki, and Peyton and Kelly O'Connor. He took great joy in following their lives, asking about their activities, celebrating their accomplishments, and sharing in the milestones that made each of them unique.

Mike dedicated 40 years of service to the Chicago Transit Authority, where he built a respected career through hard work, integrity, and leadership. He retired in 2014 as a Maintenance Manager, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and professionalism that earned the respect of his colleagues and friends.

Outside of work, Mike embraced life with enthusiasm. He enjoyed many rounds of golf with friends, faithfully cheered on his favorite teams, the Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bears, and Notre Dame Fighting Irish, and looked forward each year to attending the Indianapolis 500, a tradition he cherished for many years. He never passed up an opportunity to gather with family and friends. Mike was happiest sharing stories, enjoying a cold beverage, and filling a room with laughter at his favorite local tavern. His warm personality, quick wit, and genuine kindness made him a friend to many and ensured that those around him always felt welcome.

Mike will be remembered for his love of family, his steadfast loyalty, his sense of humor, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held on Monday, September 28, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at McKenzie Funeral Home in Oak Forest, followed by funeral services on Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.May he rest in peace.

May he rest in peace.

"A life well lived leaves a legacy of love, laughter, and memories that endure forever."

Audrey Cunningham (nee Bylin), 90, of Oak Forest, passed away at Clarendale of Mokena on September 20, 2026. She was a devout wife, mother and grandmother who loved to shop, sew, and quilt. She was preceded in death by her loving husband Vince Cunningham, sister, Dolores (Al) Stampanato, and many friends. She is survived by her daughter, Maureen, Son, Michael (Jolene), grandchildren, Matthew (Kelly), Erin, Nichole (Jake), and Grace, step-grandchildren, Charlie, Steve, and Alexandra, and great grandchildren, Colton, Mason, Bailey, Madison, Weston, and Landon. Funeral mass will be held on September 23, 2026 at 10:00 am at St Damian Catholic Church, 5250 155th St, Oak Forest, IL 60452. Committal will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, 6001 W 111th St, Alsip, IL 60803. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Cancer Society or Dementia Society of America.

The promise of Baptism was fulfilled on September 15, 2026, as Theresa Eallonardo took her place with Jesus Christ for eternity. Theresa was born in 1934 in Marcus Hook Pennsylvania to Samuel Imburgia and Carmella (Finizio) Imburgia. Theresa wed Norman Eallonardo on September 2,1961 and they shared their lives together for 60 years until his passing. Theresa is survived by her children Lisa (Michael), Damian (Christine), John (Michelle), Daniel (Lori), Marc, grandchildren Matthew, Nicole (Andrew), Samuel (Mauna), Magdelene, Norman, Jessica, Maxwell, Sophia, great-granddaughter Audrey, brothers Lawrence and Harold, and many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in passing by her parents, her brothers John, Salvatore, Paul and her beloved sister Angeline.

Theresa grew up in Southeastern Pennsylvania surrounded by family. She graduated from Notre Dame High School. Theresa’s love of self-reliance and freedom drove her to leave the safety of her family home in her early twenties to begin an independent life. Ahead of the time when women challenged the norms of society, she took control of her own future. Embracing the opportunities and risks she built a life full of friends, friendship, and adventure. Throughout her life she never lost the internal confidence that grew from her self-reliance and in later life her physical failings could not diminish the light of her spirit. Theresa took special pride in fostering the same strengths in her daughter and granddaughters as she encouraged each one towards education, career, and independence.

During the 60 years of their marriage Theresa and Norm lived in New Jersey, Oklahoma, New York, Illinois, Texas and Florida. In each place Theresa was the center of the home that cared for and nurtured their family. Theresa engaged in activities in support of her children and community, serving as an adult leader for Girl Scouts, teaching CCD, and too many others to mention, her faith manifested itself in action serving others wherever possible. Theresa’s support for her family was unwavering with the notable exception of attending ice hockey practices and games in arenas with insufficient heat.

Theresa was constantly curious and always looking for new knowledge. She taught herself stained glass work, painting, guitar, choral bells. She built a studio focused on creating decorative eggs. From her studio she built a stockpile of pieces which she took to multiple crafts shows. Despite pleas from craft show attendees she mostly refused to sell what she had made, even if it did have a price tag on it. The pieces that remain, that felt her touch, are among our family’s most precious possessions.

Theresa lived a life of faith and family, built on belief in a gracious God, manifested in her actions, fortified by her internal spirit, enriching her life and the lives of those whom she touched. She has nourished our lives in ways which words cannot describe. We move forward knowing that to honor her we must do the same.

In lieu of flowers or memorials her family would request that friends and well wishes enjoy some ice cream with the ones you love, Theresa’s favorite was at the Plush Horse, when you do think of her as you enjoy the treat.

Visitation
Friday, September 25, 2026
3:00 - 8:00 pm
McKenzie Funeral Home
15618 S Cicero Ave Oak Forest, IL 60452

Vilma “Mickey” C. Krupa, of Oak Forest, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 4, 2026, at the age of 95. A longtime resident of Oak Forest, Mickey was proud to have called her house her home for nearly 67 years. She was one of the original homeowners in the subdivision and cherished her connection to Oak Forest with many memories she created throughout her life.

Mickey was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose life was defined by love, kindness, and generosity. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome Krupa; her son, Bruce Krupa; her parents, Frank and Antonia Kruzich (later Antonia Myers following her marriage to the late Herb Myers); her sister, Kay Schoeneck and her husband Walter; and her sister, Joan Wittmann.

She is survived by her loving son, Ken Krupa; her granddaughter, Kelly Virzi and her husband James, and her great-granddaughter, Etta; her grandson, Corey Krupa and his wife Katie; her grandsons, Christopher Krupa and Cole Krupa; along with extended family members and many dear friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Mickey had a special gift for making everyone feel loved and welcomed and was known as “Mom” to all her children’s friends. A testament to the warmth, compassion, and care she showed to everyone who was lucky enough to know her. Her thoughtful heart and unconditional love left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Visitation will be held on Friday, September 11, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at McKenzie Funeral Home (15618 S. Cicero Ave. Oak Forest). A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12:00 p.m. at St. Damian Church (5250 155th Street, Oak Forest). Following Mass, family and friends will have the opportunity to drive by Mickey’s long-term Oak Forest home one final time before continuing to Interment at Resurrection Cemetery in Justice, IL.

A late luncheon for friends and family will follow the Interment at Beggars Pizza in Oak Forest, located next door to McKenzie Funeral Home, Mickey’s favorite restaurant and a place that holds many happy memories.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, helping create magical moments for children and families.

Angela Grace Weinberg, 75, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, cherished memories, and a family who will forever carry her in their hearts.
Angela grew up in Chicago, where she made many wonderful memories throughout her life. She had a special love for her flowers, which she considered her sanctuary. She found peace and happiness surrounded by the beauty of her flowers and took great pride in caring for them.
One of the things Angela treasured most was having her family together for Sunday dinner. Those meals were more than just dinner—they were moments filled with love, laughter, stories, and togetherness. Her home was a place where family gathered, memories were made, and everyone felt loved.
Angela had a true love for traveling, and some of her most cherished memories were the adventures she shared with her beloved husband, Richard. Angela and Richard were married for 51 beautiful years, building a life together filled with love, family, laughter, and countless memories. Together, they traveled to many wonderful places, including Las Vegas, Savannah, Georgia, and Memphis, Tennessee. Each destination brought new experiences and memories that they shared side by side. Whether they were exploring a new city, enjoying a getaway, or simply spending time together, Angela treasured the life and adventures she shared with Richard. Their 51 years of marriage were filled with a love that created a beautiful foundation for their family. The memories they made together will remain a treasured part of Angela’s legacy.
Angela was a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother. She leaves behind her beloved husband of 51 years, Richard; her daughter, Tina her grandchildren, Brett, Chris, and Alexis and her two future great grandchildren, whom she was so excited to welcome into the family.
Her family was her greatest joy. She cherished every moment spent with them and loved watching her family grow. Although she will not be here to meet her two future grandchildren, the love she already had for them will forever be a part of their family story. Angela will be remembered for her loving heart, adventurous spirit, beautiful flowers, Sunday dinners, and the warmth she brought to everyone around her. She had a way of making the people she loved feel at home.
Though she may no longer be sitting at the Sunday dinner table or traveling beside Richard, her memory will live on in every family gathering, every beautiful flower, every journey, and every story shared about her.
Rest peacefully, Angela Grace. May your garden always be in bloom, and may the beautiful memories of the 51 years you shared with Richard and the life you built together live on forever. You are forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.

Visitation service will be 08/22/2026 at the McKenzie Funeral Home in Oak Forest from 12-6pm.

Robert J. Kachlik, age 90, of Oak Forest, Illinois, died August 12, 2026. Robert was married to his beloved wife Marie for 64 years. Marie preceded him in death on March 26, 2022.

Loving father of Steven (Barbara) Kachlik, David “Cubbie” (Pam) Kachlik, Christine (Steve) Ochs, and Barbie (Dan) Mittler. Dearest grandfather of 9; and cherished great-grandfather of 9. Robert was a devoted member of St. Damian Church for many years.

Funeral Monday, August 17, at 8:45 a.m. from the McKenzie Funeral Home, 15618 S. Cicero Avenue, Oak Forest to St. Damian Church, Mass 10 a.m. Interment St. Mary Cemetery. For information: (708) 687-2990

Vivian Reks, 89, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026. Born August 27, 1936, to the late Marie and Ted Reks, Vivian grew up in Chicago and graduated from Gage Park High School. Guided by a lifelong desire to serve, she initially joined the Sinsinawa Dominican Order before transitioning into public education.

Vivian spent her career shaping minds and supporting families, first as a school teacher and later as a dedicated school psychologist for Broward County Public Schools in Florida. She resided in Boca Raton, Florida, for most of her life before relocating to Tinley Park, Illinois, to be near family. Upon retirement, she passionately volunteered for local hospice organizations and food pantries. Though she never married or had children, Vivian was a beloved aunt to her family, leaving behind a legacy of wisdom and warmth.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Ted Reks and her dear friend Marie Sink. She is survived by her loving sister, Jacqueline, and many adored nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at McKenzie Funeral Home, Oak Forest, IL. A Catholic Mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. at St. Damian Catholic Church, Oak Forest, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a local food pantry or hospice organization.

Tracy, born July 4th, 1976, passed away June 21st after a four year battle with cancer at Olympia Fields Hospital. Tracy leaves behind many that loved her. Her children Erin and Jeremy; her sister Andrea(Robert) and her brother Christopher(Mary); her mother Susan; her grandmother Katherine; her nieces and nephew Emma, Olivia, Bobby and Eleanor; and her grand-dog Bella. She was preceded in death by her father Michael A. Perry(MAP)

In her youth, you could find her on the softball field, the basketball court, and courtside keeping score for her male basketball counterparts. She was a powerhouse and a force to be reckoned with as a player and as a teammate. When she hung up her jersey, she continued that larger than life energy into the medical field on an ambulance as a paramedic. Over the years she continued working for private ambulance companies, St. James Chicago Heights in the ER, CSL Plasma, and her final love, the Advocate Pediatric Transport Team as a lead badass dispatcher. She never missed the chance to learn something new, or share her knowledge of the medical field to help better the knowledge of coworkers, family members, or unsuspecting partners. We all enjoyed it.

She will forever live on as the fun, silly, ridiculous, Disney loving, Neal McDonough loving, romaine lettuce loving, Yorkie’s loving, Dunkin loving, caring, loving soul everyone lucky enough to know her got to experience.

Please join us for a celebration of life on July 26th, 2026 from 12-5 at McKenzie Funeral Home in Oak Forest, Illinois. Guests are encouraged to wear Disney shirts, the memorial shirts, or something that reminds you of Tracy. Bring fun/loving/weird stories, a memory that lives with you, and share the light she brought to your life.