Alice Katherine DeSilvia

Alice Katherine DeSilvia (née Ewald), beloved wife of the late Raymond G. DeSilvia Sr., passed away surrounded by family. She was a devoted and loving mother to Elizabeth (Glenn) Peterson, Thomas (Julie) DeSilvia, and the late Raymond G. DeSilvia Jr.

Cherished grandmother of Glenn (Shelby) Peterson, Katherine (Andrew) Oleksy, George Peterson, Thomas (fiancé Katharine) Peterson, Krista DeSilvia, Nicholas DeSilvia, Brianna DeSilvia, and Brendan DeSilvia. Proud great-grandmother of Sophia Alice, Celia, and Glenn Peterson.

Daughter of the late Thomas and Marie (Donnelly) Ewald. Dear sister of James (Mary) Ewald, Thomas (Millie) Ewald, and the late Eileen (Angelo) LaSpina.

Alice was a proud member of the Providence High School Alumnae Association and a devoted parishioner of St. Zachary Church for over 60 years. She was actively involved in numerous parish ministries, including the Altar and Rosary Society, the quilting club, and scheduling lectors and Eucharistic ministers. She also taught Religious Education for many years and was a dedicated member of the church's ladies' group.

Her commitment to community extended far beyond the church. Alice served as a Judge of Election, participated in a neighborhood ladies' bowling league, and enjoyed being part of several luncheon and social groups. She was always present and supportive during her children's formative years-volunteering as a Girl Scout leader, den mother, PTA member, room mother, and even helping to start the school's lunch program. She was truly their number-one cheerleader in all their sports and activities.

Alice began her career at Illinois Bell in downtown Chicago, working as a switchboard operator before being promoted to staff assistant to the President—a position she held for seven years prior to marriage. She later retired from Sears after 20 years of dedicated service.

In her free time, Alice enjoyed crocheting and quilting. Each of her children and grandchildren received a handmade quilt and crocheted baby set—a testament to her love and creativity.

Family trips to Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin were among her favorite pastimes, filled with fishing, boating, evening games, trips to the casino, and visits to local supper clubs. She was an avid fan of the Chicago White Sox and Jeopardy.

Alice's unwavering love for her family, dedication to her faith, belief in the miracle of Lourdes water, and generous spirit left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed.

Visitation for Alice will be held Thursday, August 14, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL. A visitation will then take place at St. Zachary Parish in Des Plaines, 567 W. Algonquin Rd., Des Plaines on Friday, August 15, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM with Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00am. A graveside service will follow the Mass at All Saints Cemetery, 700 N. River Rd., Des Plaines, IL. Memorials in Alice's memory may be made to: Sister's of Providence Of St. Mary of the Woods, 1 Sisters of Providence Road, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876.