Public walk-through visitation is Wednesday, November 4, 2020 from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL. Private family funeral service to celebrate Tanya’s life will be at 2:00 pm with Facebook Livestream. Burial will be in Sunset Memorial Gardens following service.
Tanya was born on Feb 14, 1972 in Rockford, IL, to Jim and Carol Calabrese. Growing up with two older brothers, Tanya learned fast how to defend herself from her brothers’ pranks, including being tied to the overhead garage door. Always a good sport, though, she loved growing up in the Ralston subdivision, making life-long friends. Tanya was confirmed and baptized at St. Bridget’s Catholic Church. She graduated from Harlem High School Class of 1990. Tanya was an involved parent, spending countless hours at football and soccer games along with watching cheerleading at football/basketball games and competitions . She was always willing to step in to car pool, provide meals and support her kid’s athletic teams.
Tanya worked for Coram Healthcare as a medical collector. She was a phenomenal cook, especially cooking authentic Mexican food. Being the Mother Hen of the Family, she was a fierce advocate for her family, especially her mom and dad, always putting their needs before her own. Most of all, Tanya loved her family and her friends. Her love and kindness will be forever missed.
Tanya is survived by her father, Jim Calabrese; daughters, Megan (Abel) Ortiz, Mackenzie Calabrese, Gabriela (Dylan) Ritter; son, Leo Ruiz; grandchildren, Emilio and Javi Ortiz; brothers, Tony (Michelle) Calabrese, Tim (Fabienne) Calabrese; many cousins, nieces and nephew. Tanya was preceded in death by her mother, Carol Calabrese, and grandparents.
