Obituary: Sally A. D’Orazio

Obituary was published and funeral arrangements were entrusted to the care and direction of the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home and Crematory.

Sally A. D’Orazio

Age 90, resident of Coal City, formerly of Rockdale, passed away Monday, April 28, 2025, at Ascension St. Joseph, Joliet, IL, surrounded by her loving family. She was born May 27, 1934, in Munising, MI, the daughter of the late Herbert and Frances (nee Stimac) Blank.

Sally grew up on the family farm outside of Star Siding/Shingleton, MI, and graduated from Munising Middle High School. After graduation, she migrated to Joliet, IL, to live with her Aunt Mary. She worked as a secretary at Al Baskin’s Clothing Store, where she met her husband, Roger. They resided in Rockdale, IL, for over 60 years, where they raised their family and enjoyed making many friends. She recently relocated to Coal City, IL, and continued to make more friends and acquaintances.

Sally liked to be social and kept busy as a volunteer with St. Joseph Hospital in Joliet and as a member of the Red Hat Society. She was an experienced quilter and enjoyed sharing her craft. Growing heirloom seed vegetables and flowers was a favorite spring and summer hobby, and she maintained many houseplants, with her favorite being African violets. She adored animals and would care for the many outside cats, squirrels, and any other creatures who would find their way into her garden. Sally had a quick wit and a playful spirit that never faded. Whether challenging her loved ones to a round of Rummikub or a game of cards, she brought laughter and warmth to every moment. Her mind was as bright as her smile, and she left a trail of joy, kindness, and unforgettable memories with everyone lucky enough to be part of her life.

She is survived by her two sons, Roger (Elaine) D’Orazio and Terrence (Barbara) D’Orazio; grandchildren, Roger (Lisa) D’Orazio, Allison (Tim Zlomie) D’Orazio, Ryan (Debbie) D’Orazio, Bernard (Jenna) D’Orazio, Gary (Lesley) D’Orazio, Terrance (Beth) D’Orazio, Jr., and Gina (Michael) Wix; great grandchildren, Brody, Emma, and Mason D’Orazio, Sienna Ruffatto, Oliver, Graham, and Knox D’Orazio, Beckham and Bianca D’Orazio, William, Matthew, Madelyn, and Katelyn D’Orazio, Joshua and Abby D’Orazio, Hunter and Ava Wix; brother, James Blank; and sisters, Loretta Reff, Deanna Boyak, and Annetta (Jerry) VanLandschoot. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and Red Hat Ladies also survive.

She was preceded in death by her husband of over 42 years, Roger D’Orazio, and her parents.

Services for Sally A. D’Orazio were held privately by her family, and she was entombed at Woodlawn Memorial Park, Joliet, IL.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to SNIP Society NFP, 2201 Glenwood Ave, Joliet, IL 60435 or to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

Fred C. Dames Funeral Home in Morris was in charge of arrangements. Please visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com, where you can share a favorite memory or leave an online condolence.

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