Community Corner
Valentine's Messages From Illinois Patch Readers Spread Love
These heartfelt Valentine's Day messages from Illinois Patch readers to their sweeties show that love can come in countless forms!
ILLINOIS — There are just four letters in the English word for "love," but all together, they encompass and elicit feelings of admiration, passion, support, trust, patience and joy. Let's be honest; the list could go on and on.
This Valentine's Day, we asked Illinois Patch readers to send in messages of love for their sweethearts. The dedications rolled in for partners, spouses, children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins and friend.
Scroll through the messages below to feel the huge wave of love coming from Illinois Patch readers for Valentine's Day 2022.
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From Miguel Barrios, of Downers Grove, to Erika Inarra
Miguel writes that he love's Erika's "loving care and giving way."
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From Leah Maldonado to Jared Maldonado and Jaylen and Kobe Buchanan
Leah writes of her son and nephews, "They are all wonderful young men."
From Mandy Schultz, of Mokena, to Bonnie Gondek
Mandy writes of her mom, "She is 94 years old and is the best Mom ever. I Love her cuteness with an edge of spice. A day doesn’t go by where I don’t learn something new from her or about her. With time so precious, I’m enjoying every minute we spend together. I especially love being in the kitchen with you. We are Mother and Daughter and Best Friends! Happy Valentine's Day, Mom! XOXOXO"
From Sharon, of Woodridge, to her husband, Bruce
"I love everything about him! He is a very loving, compassionate and hard-working guy!" Sharon writes of her husband.
From Beth, of Downers Grove, to her husband, Al
Beth writes that she loves Al's "caring, loving heart!!!"
From Kevin, of Chicago, to his husband, Zachary
Kevin writes of Zachary, "He makes me smile every single day."
From Adam K. in Naperville to his wife of nearly 25 years
Adam writes, "She is absolutely gorgeous and smart. She is an incredible mom to our three kids and tirelessly supports us all. My wife is a professional signer with the most incredible voice and she runs a theater company in Naperville! Plus she loves sports! What more can a man ask?!"
From Robyn, of Wheaton, to her husband, Chad
Robyn writes, "My husband, Chad, and I have been each other's Valentine for almost 30 years! He is my high school sweetheart, the amazing father to our two beautiful children, and a saint to put up with me for this long! I will always love you, Chad!"
From Carla, of Chicago, to her daughter, Siena
Carla writes, "I love my daughter because she is a ray of sunshine. She cares about others, tires her best, always gives great advice and is so positive!"
From Linda Trytek of Deerfield, to her husband, Ed Goldberg

Linda writes, "He has the ultimate courage to keep taking the next step, through the pandemic, illness, joy, work, tragedy, and each day. He is my hero!"
From Amber Pattalio, of Oswego, to her husband, Greg
Amber writes that she loves "everything" about Greg.
From Taylin, of Joliet, to Darrius
Taylin writes that what she loves about Darrius is "The love he has for me and his sense of humor and he is sexy."
Wayne R. Braverman, of Elmhurst, to his daughters, Jessi and Ali, and his granddaughter, Aerith
Wayne writes that he loves "everything" about Jessi, Ali and Aerith. He adds, "They are the loves of my life."
To Haley Simonini from Grandma
Haley's Grandma writes, "I love your kind heart and beautiful smile!!"
From Lisa Deyoung, of Orland Park, to James Deyoung
Lisa writes of James, "He does everything he can to put a smile on my face and he is my best friend."
From Feliciana Smith, of Joliet, to Robert Simpson
Feliciana writes that she loves "everything" about Robert.
From Michelle Ness, of Wheaton, to her best friend, Stefanie Keehn
Michelle writes that she loves "absolutely everything" about Stefanie. She adds, "Stefanie is my best friend, kindred spirit and a gift from God whose friendship I was blessed with!"
From Rhonda Matlak, of Lockport, to her grandkids, Alex, Gabby, Lilly and Knox
Rhonda writes,"My grandkids make my world a better place and I love them to the moon and back!"
From Duston Detrick , of Naperville, to his daughter, Olivia, and his wife, Claudia
Duston writes that he loves his daughter and his wife for their "intelligence, strength and beauty."
From Lorrie, of Tinley Park, to her son, Matt
Lorrie writes of Matt, "You fill my heart with all the love I need."
From Marvin Steward, of Joliet, to his wife
Marvin writes that he requested a dedication to his wife because he loves "her strength."
From Farobag Homi Cooper, of Orland Park, to Ashees Cooper
Farobag writes that Ashees has "stood by me through thick and thin for sweet sixteen years!"
From Jesse, of Joliet, to his wife, Michelle Stiff
Jesse wanted to send a loving message to Michelle thanking her for 25 years of marriage.
Jeanne Sheriden, of Woodridge, to Art Sheriden
Jeanne writes of Art, "He is loving, considerate, kind, an awesome friend and soulmate."
From Regina J., of Chicago Heights, to her family
Regina writes, "Although COVID has kept us apart we will all reunite soon. Love and hugs!!!"
From Cesar Hernandez, of Joliet, to his daughter Aiyana Valdiviezo
Cesar writes of Aiyana, "She is the world to me."
From Erika, of Romeoville, to her boyfriend, Joshua
Erika writes that she loves "everything" about Joshua. She adds, "He is the greatest person ever."
From Charles Price, of Joliet, to his life partner, Crystal Bailey
Charles writes that he loves Crystal's "big heart and crazy sense of humor."
From Barbara, of Orland Park, to Donnie
Barbara writes, that she loves Donnie because "he is an 'old' friend."
From PoohBear, of New Lenox, to FunnyFace
PoohBear writes, "Thanks for being kind, patient & the best soul mate one could have! I love you!"
They added, "wishing everyone in this world lots of love. Happy Valentine's Day!!❤️
From Veronica in Minooka, to her husband, Ron
Veronica writes that she loves Ron because he is "loving and honest."
From Zina, of Naperville, to Michael
Zina writes, "When my olive fell off my plate, you brought me another one. You take care me and our children, even the furry ones, with the utmost love in all things big and small."
From Anonymous to "Every Woman in Illinois"
Anonymous writes, "This is for every woman no matter what [race]. I'd like to wish you a very blessed valentine day because every day should be filled with respect and love enjoy."
From Amanda C. in Joliet to Christopher P.

Amanda writes of Christopher, "He's my best friend and he is so supportive and compassionate. He has a huge heart and he's so kind. I love our life together."
From Tracie Rice, of Joliet, to Walter Rice
Tracie writes of Walter, "He is a very caring and loving husband and stepdad."
From Gretchen Musa, of Wheaton, to her husband, Tim
Gretchen writes that when it comes to Tim, her husband of nearly 24 years, she loves "His loyalty, compassion, culinary skills, constant service, commitment, intellect, hugs and sense of humor."
Marianne Sakowicz, of Oak Forest, to her husband, Chris
Marianne writes that she and Chris have "four amazing boys." They've been together 10 years and got married last Valentine's Day. She adds, "I love that you put us first in everything you do. I love how much I laugh with you. I love that I can see your face in Jet's and that Jax gets completely consumed by the TV when it's on like you do. I love that you're completely and one hundred percent in this life with me. I love that I love you way more now than when we first said I love you. I love that you are my best friend and that you know me more than anyone. And I really just love the life that we built together. Happy Anniversary!"
From Gina Avila, of Shorewood, to her husband, Bernie and kids, Armani and Aeris
Gina writes, "They are my world! Love that we always have a great time together. Never a shortage of laughs around here."
From Laura Jeffris, of Evanston, to Daisy Simonian
Laura writes that she loves Daisy's "zest for life," which "makes me smile every day."
From Bonnie in Tinley Park, to her husband, Tony
Bonnie writes, "I love that we have known each other for 42 years, been best friends for almost 39 years and this year we celebrate 35 years of marriage!!! Thank you for everything you do and continue to do for me and our family every day! We’ve weathered many storms and we’ve come out stronger each and EVERY time! YOU ARE THE BEST!!!!!"
From Bubbe and Zayde, of Lincolnshire, to Hailee and Miles
Bubbe and Zayde write of Hailee and Miles, "Love them with all our hearts and all our souls!!!"
From Ignacio Reyes, of Joliet, to Veronica Reyes

Ignacio writes that Veronica is "very caring."
From Melanie Guzman, of Joliet, to her six children
Melanie writes, "They have always been a constant in my life. They have made everything worth living for. They are and will remain MY FOREVER LOVES."
From S.C.M. in Chicago, to A.L.
S.C.M. writes that what they about love A.L. is "his kisses, his smile, his everything."
From John, of Tinley Park, to his wife, Martha
John writes that his "wonderful wife," Martha, is the "love of his life." He writes that he loves for her "patience" and "capacity for love." He adds that she is a "good cook, funny, a great mother and grandmother, a teacher of high repute, a friend and a love."
From Sue Hornacek, of LaGrange, to her "special grandkids"
Sue writes that she loves her grandchildren for "the fun, love and support they give us."
From Christina Archer, of Hometown, to Craig Archer
Christina writes of Craig, "He is my rock. He is smart and kind and strong. He makes the bad times more bearable and he makes the good times more fun. I can always be myself around him and he is truly the best friend I can ever want."
From Chantal in Darien, to her husband, Kyle
Chantal writes, "My husband is my rock. He is a hard worker, loyal and dedicated. He has blessed me with eight gorgeous children. He remembers every holiday and makes sure to plan a date day for us to enjoy time together. Even after 20 years, he still remembers the little things like flowers, kind gestures and little notes showing his appreciation. He lets me know that my job is hard and he is grateful for the mom and wife that I am. The life we’ve built together is busy but full of love and joy. Our life together is a treasure that I hold dear to my heart."
From Jimmy Shemroske, of Plainfield, to Lisa Shemroske
Jimmy writes that he loves "everything" about Lisa.
From Denny Drangle, of Chicago, to Sunny Brule
Denny writes that he loves Sunny because Sunny "likes food."
From Dave in Algonquin, to Traci
Dave writes to Traci, "You make our lives full of love, laughter, and happiness! I love you."
From Grammy, of Midlothian, to godson Shawn
Grammy writes that Shawn is her "bestie." She adds, "Right from the start, you were a thief, you stole my heart and I your willing victim."
From Bill Sheehan, of Bolingbrook to his "amazing mother"
Bill writes, "Love that she was and is my superhero, my biggest fan, my biggest cheerleader in everything I did or tried to do. She is such a loving and giving and hard-working soul that God put her in control of my life and gave me to her and that was the biggest gift. She has always had my back when others didn't. The most amazing Mother that anyone could ever ask or hope for..EVER!!!!"
From Jerry in Skokie to Diana
Jerry writes of Diana, his wife of more than 50 years, "I love everything about her."
From Aaron in Homer Glen to Lucia
Aaron writes that Lucia is "smart, caring, and beautiful. She is my missing link in life."
From Kymm in Winnetka to Zoey Junker
Kymm writes that Zoey is "one of the most deep and inspirational young women I know."
From Anne Morrill-Ploum, of Homewood, to Steve Ploum
Anne writes, "You are funny, witty and you are my rock, I love you to the moon and back."
From Osty, in Orland Park, to Amanda

Osty wants to send love to Amanda for her "connection to animals and dedication to her family and friends."
From Lois G., in Joliet, to "all my family (you know who you are)"
Lois writes that she loves her family for "their love and caring and being family."
From Greg in Barrington to his wife, Sharon
Greg writes that Sharon is "beautiful, kind, smart and forgiving."
From Karen C. to her husband, Don C.
Karen writes that Don is "sweet, caring, intelligent and he does so many wonderful things for me."
From Mariah B., of Bolingbrook, to Clifton B.
Mariah writes, "They don't give up and has a huge heart, same as me."
From Mike Sweeney, of Naperville, to Kelly Sweeney
Mike writes, "As I said 23.5 years ago on our wedding day: 'Love spending life together.'"
From Jackie, of Palatine, to Tony AKA "Babers" or "Hubby"
Jackie writes, "You are patient, funny and treat me like a queen."
From D. Nicole Conway, of Chicago Heights, to George Ashford
D. Nicole writes that it's easy to love George because of "his unconditional love towards me!"
From Mom in Northwest Chicago, to daughter Lisa and grandkids Niiko, Ziva and Jayden
She writes, "Love going places with you all, Lisa my daughter and Grandma ( Nonna), to grandkids."
From Liliana, of Bolingbrook, to her "loving husband"
Liliana writes, "He is the light of my life, my strength, my everything. He has followed me, literally to the end of the world, and I know he would do it over and over again. I love you so much!!! Your truly and forever., Liliana
From Arthur Popov, of Grayslake, to Lily Claire Bassett
Arthur writes, "She’s an outstanding and caring person that is incredibly selfless. I am so glad to call her my girlfriend." He adds, "She is someone who thinks about how she can help you before herself. She’s is someone who can make any person smile. She is someone who deserves the absolute world."
From Walter, in Oak Lawn, to his wife, Peggy
Walter writes that he loves "everything" about Peggy.
From Anonymous to Oak Trace Physical Therapy
Anonymous writes that what they love about Oak Trace Physical Therapy in Downers Grove is "their dedication to their patients."
From Andrea Yedinak, of Lockport, to her granddaughters, Ana, Lily and Tessa
Andrea writes of her granddaughters, "They are so fun and smart and sweet."
From Jim, of Elmhurst, to Denise
Jim writes that Denise is "the kindest person I know who always thinks about others feelings rather than her own."
From Stacy in Aurora, to Rodolfo, "my love"
Stacy writes that she wanted to dedicate a Valentine's Day message to Rodolfo because she loves "his heart!"
From Joy Vitiritti, of Oak Lawn, to Ed Luczynski
Joy writes that she has known Ed since they both were young. She adds, "He always comes back to me no matter what."
From Joy Vitiritti, of Oak Lawn, to Matt Vitiritti
Joy writes of Matt, her oldest son, "He's such a great kid and will do anything for me. He's doing well in his life as well I am very proud of him. He will never let anything happen to me ever."
From Joy Vitiritti, of Oak Lawn, to Sally Vitiritti
Joy writes of Sally, her mother, "She is always there for me and I have put her through a lot. I love her and I am sorry for the trouble I put her through in life."
From Chris D., of Buffalo Grove, to Kimberly
Chris writes that he loves Kimberly because "she puts up with me. "
From Lisa Verachtert, of Yorkville, to Jason
Lisa writes, "He is the other half of my soul."
From Baby J in Oak Lawn, to Grandma Kiki
Baby J writes, "I love her because she reads to me, plays cars with me and let’s me dress up. I love her so much!"
From Baby J in Oak Lawn, to Grandma Ree Ree
Baby J writes, "I love sitting by the fireplace and drinking hot cocoa with her!"
From Maddie Roo in Oak Lawn, to Ree Ree
Maddie Roo writes, "I like spending over night at her house because we get to hang out and watch movies and play with the hamster. I love her because she’s nice."
From Maddie, of Oak Lawn, to Kiki
Maddie writes, "I love her because she is funny and nice. We have a lot of fun!"
From J.B. in Joliet, to C.D.M.
J.B. writes that they love C.D.M. for "Putting up with my foolishness for over 5 and 1/2 years, Thank you and I love you !"
From Leslie Katchmar in Bolingbrook, to "my kiddos"

Leslie writes, "They are fun, silly & have big hearts."
From Debbie in Chicago to granddaughters Ameila, Ash and Emma
Debbie writes, "They are all very nice and helpful to me. They're my granddaughters."
From Dana, of Orland Park, to their standard poodle puppy, Raeger
Dana writes that Raeger is lovable for their "spunk and spirit and playfulness."
From Dennis Malone, of Naperville, to Mari Cali
Dennis writes, "She is beautiful inside and out."
From Trisha Krupinski to her fiance, Robert Krupinski
Trisha writes, "I love him for always being here for for us! For stepping up and being the best Daddy to my girls because he chose to and loves them as his own! For being a a loving 'son' to my dear mother! Especially during my mom’s cancer battle and after her loss! Bob is truly selfless and has shown us nothing but unconditional love and support! For all he has done for us, but especially since my mom’s passing. Saying the words 'I love you' I feel is not enough! He deserves to be recognized for the amazing man, father, son, and fiancé that he is! He is truly perfect in our eyes, heart and soul! He defines unconditional love! He is our world and our life! He is our everything and more! He is our Godsend! My one and only special Valentine forever! With all my love! He makes us whole and complete!"
From MaTea, of Evanston, to granddaughters Zee and Zanna
MaTea writes, "I love you just the way you are."
From Norma Dominguez, of Westmont, to her husband, Carlos V.
Norma writes, "He's funny and pushes me to be the best version of me."
From Norma Dominguez, of Westmont, to Mary and Karen from Hinsdale South High School
Norma writes, "Thank you for all that you do for the school. You guys ROCK!!"
From Norma Dominguez, of Westmont, to daughter Sheccid and son Leo
Norma writes, "You guys are the best kids God could have given to me. I am very proud for all your accomplishments. I love you guys!!"
Stephanie King-Myers, of Western Spring, to Nicholas Myers

Stephanie writes, "You know that monologue from the movie Groundhog Day where Andie McDowell describes her "perfect guy?" I watched it recently and realized she was describing my husband, the father of my four beautiful children."
"Rita: First of all, he's too humble to know he's perfect.
Phil : That's me.
Rita : He's intelligent, supportive, funny...
Phil : Intelligent, supportive, funny... me, me, me...
Rita : He's romantic and courageous...
Phil : Me also...
Rita : He's got a good body, but he doesn't have to look in the mirror every two minutes.
Phil : I have a great body, and sometimes I go months without looking.
Rita : He's kind and sensitive and gentle, he's not afraid to cry in front of me...
Phil : This is a man we're talking about, right?
Rita : He likes animals and children and he'll change poopy diapers...
Phil : Does he have to use the word poopy?
Rita : Oh, and he plays an instrument, and he loves his mother.
Phil : I am really close on this one... really, really close."
"REALLY close. Spot on, actually. I love you, buddy. Happy Valentine's Day."
From F.N., of Bolingbrook, to Fufu
F.N. writes, "I love how he cares for me."
From Dena Barrett, of St. Charles, to her boys

Dena writes, "My boys are my heart and soul, and I'm so proud of the young men they are all becoming! Love you guys so much!"
From Dave Ricordati, of Willowbrook, to his wife, Kathy Ricordati
Dave writes tha what he loves about Kathy is "Absolutely everything, every day. Her calming presence, cute laugh, unselfish caring to everyone she meets."
From Rosa Hernandez, of Joliet, to daughter, Nadia Hernandez

Rosa writes, "She is the sweetest person I know her words can put a smile on my face no matter what kind of day I am having."
From Sweet Pea in Oak Lawn, to Studpuppy
Sweet Pea writes, "Still annoying each other after 31 years!! Happy Valentine's Day."
From Mia, of Joliet, to boyfriend Phillip
Mia writes, "I love the way he always makes the best out of any situation an his sense of humor."
From Angee, of Downers Grove, to Scott
Scott is Angee's "best friend, fiance and business partner," she shared. Angee writes that the pair met in an online chat room more than 20 year's ago. She added, "I love his brain and the way he thinks. He is so smart, funny, he has beautiful eyes that see me to my soul."
From Rachael M. Wilder, of Frankfort, to husband Steve Wilder
Rachel writes, "What I ‘Love’ most about my Husband is his ability to always care unconditionally and support my life decisions!"
From Darren in Tinley Park to Amanda
Darren writes, "She takes care of the family and her butt."
From Amelia Baer, of Tinley Park, to parents Larry and Erika
Amelia writes that she loves her parents for "Their love, compassion and dedication to each other and their family is expiring. They have always been there and have devoted their time and energy to us and those around them were help is needed. To my parents your are our world and from myself and your grandchildren we appreciate everything you have done and sacrificed for us. Congratulations on your 40-plus years of marriage. We love you and thank you. Have a wonderful Valentine's Day."
From Kim Burke, of Alsip, to daughter Bridget Burke
Kim writes, "There is so much I love about her. I love how compassionate she is with others and I love her sense of humor. She makes me laugh and teaches me the importance of being patient and caring. I am so very proud of the young woman she has become."
From Kim Burke, of Alsip, to gradpup Margaret Henrietta, "Maggie"
Kim writes, "Maggie is my daughter's amazing chocolate lab who has been loving on us since we got her as a pup 18 months ago. She is so smart and funny and quite intuitive. She knows when we are struggling or sad. She makes a point of staying close and snuggling with us. She also gives us extra kisses just to let us know she is there for us. She has changed our lives."
From Jessica Smith, of Mokena, to Jacob Foy
Jessica writes, "Jake is the sweetest soul who makes everyone around him feel loved. He makes the world a better place everyday with his kindness and selflessness. I appreciate him and our incredibly loving relationship everyday."
From Gwen D’Addio, of Glen Ellyn, to Cameron and Maddy Wloszek
"They are wonderful people!" Gwen writes.
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