Lillian M. Pettinato

Lillian’s heritage and upbringing led her to a life of humility, dedication, and love. After marrying the love of her life, Anthony, in 1948, Lillian dedicated her life to raising her 4 boys and maintaining the kind of Italian household where family, food, laughter and lively conversation were sacred. As a proud member and advocate for the Italian American Society and her church, she cultivated a deeply rooted culture within her family. She regularly enjoyed the beautiful moments in the garden with her African Violets and Marigolds, crocheting, or as a beautician. She prided herself on being an exceptional homemaker and a regular babysitter her grandchildren and great grandchildren. While cooking was not her passion, her food said otherwise. Anyone fortunate enough to partake of her feasts never forgot the experience. Family events will not be the same without her presence, but Lillian’s impact will continue to live on for generations.

Born on September 18, 1929 in Chicago, Lillian was the precious daughter to the late Nello and the late Rose Pacini; she was the beloved wife of the late Anthony Pettinato for 56 years; Cherished mother of Anthony Jr “Tony” (Bonnie) Pettinato, Robert “Bob” (Kathy) Pettinato, Dave (Cheryl) Pettinato, and Joe Pettinato; Adored grandmother of Anthony III (Lisa) Pettinato, James “Jimmy” Pettinato, Julie (Mathew) Douvikas, Aric (Kelly) Eikum, Nicole (Steve) Skrezyna, Robyn Pettinato, Brian Pettinato (Jared Gray), Danielle Pettinato, Dylan Pettinato, and Joey Pettinato; Prized great grandmother of Jaquelynn, Dominic, Austin, Thano, Gia, Anastasia, Bobby, Emma, Logan, Cassie, Aidan, Allyson, and Jake; dearest great- great grandmother of Brayden M, Luca, and Brayden K; and fond sister of James (Toni Mae) Pacini and the late Louis Pacini (Bette). Such a full and fruitful legacy she leaves behind. She will be deeply missed by all those who knew her in California and Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Lillian’s honor to: Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org/?form=FUNMEVDVNJG)

Entombment Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 9am at Ridgewood Memorial Park, 9900 North Milwaukee Avenue, Des Plaines, IL 60016. Arrangements entrusted to Oehler Funeral Home, 2099 Miner Street, Des Plaines. For more information, please call (847) 824-5155.