South Cook News

Orland Park, Illinois - Marie Archangela Cilella, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, peacefully passed away on October 18, 2024, at the age of 96, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on December 7, 1927, to the late Frank and Margaret Cavico, joining her twin sister, the late Mary Frances Cavico, and older brother, the late Frank Cavico Jr.

Marie spent her childhood in Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood, where she cultivated her love for the arts and music, frequently visiting the Jane Addams Hull House. Skilled in piano, she often played duets with her twin sister. After graduating from St. Mary's Academy in Prairie du Chien, she pursued accounting at DePaul University. In 1950, she married her childhood sweetheart, the late Basil Cilella, with whom she shared 54 years of marriage, raising four children and exploring the world together.

A devoted Catholic, Marie's true passion was her family. She provided unwavering love, guidance, and support, becoming a strong moral compass for all. Renowned for her culinary skills, she cherished bringing loved ones together in her kitchen, especially during her famed annual Christmas Eve Italian Feast of the Fishes, a tradition filled with warmth and joy. Active well into her 90s, she traveled, engaged in exercise classes, and volunteered with children with special needs.

Marie is preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, her son's wife, Diane Cilella, and grandson, Matthew Meyer. She is survived by her children, Michael, Mark, Janet (Michael), Scot (Gloria), her grandchildren, Nicole (Aaron), Daniel (Nikki), Anthony, Jessica (Jonathon), Austin, Gianna, Joshua, Marissa, Maria, and eight great-grandchildren. Her loving memory will forever reside in their hearts.

A visitation for Marie will be held on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Orland Funeral Home, 9900 W 143RD ST, Orland Park, IL 60462. A graveside service will take place on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleums, 1400 S Wolf Rd, Hillside, IL 60162.

Click here to read the original obituary.