Donna Tortorella-O'Connor

Donna M. Tortorella-O'Connor, nee Christian, 77, at rest March 31, 2012. Born in Chicago on May 15, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Alfred R. and Julia C. Christian and beloved wife of the late Christopher Tortorella and great aunt of the late Jessica Yore. She grew up in River Forest, IL, graduated from Oak Park/River Forest H.S. in 1952. When she married, she made her home in Niles, IL and worked as an Executive Secretary for 49 years. She had a passion for cooking and gardening. Her holiday dinners were always a treat and looked forward to by her family. Donna is survived by her husband of 22 years Patrick O'Connor; brother Richard Christian and sister Gayle Dixon; cherished second mother to nephew Steve and Michael Yore nieces Kathleen Yore, Karen Christian, Linda and her husband, Don Derning III; loving great aunt to Justin Yore and Kaitlyn Derning; beloved step mother of Daniel, Theresa, Michael (his sons Michael and Eli), Anne (her children Irene, Molly and Sam) and Tim O'Connor. She was adored by all and fondly known to many as "Auntie Donna". She will be missed greatly by her dog Buddy that she and Patrick rescued 4 years ago. Visitation will be Tuesday, April 3, 2012 3 to 9 p.m. at The Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner St., Des Plaines, IL 60016 (847) 824-5155. Funeral Mass Wednesday 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Ransom Church, 8624 W. Normal Ave., Niles 60714. Entombment will follow at All Saints Cemetery, 700 N. River Rd., Des Plaines, IL 60016.