Lucille "Lu" Aiello

Born in Chicago and raised in Villa Park, Lu enjoyed a quintessential postwar childhood. She graduated from York High School in 1956 and soon after began working alongside her father at Hotpoint.

After a chance meeting with Ron Aiello in the hallway at Hotpoint, Lu and Ron went on to share 51 years of marriage while raising their four daughters, affectionately known as “the 4 J’s.”

After her daughters were grown, Lu began a remarkable 34-year career in the Public Relations Department at Elmhurst University. Known for her sharp mind, impeccable grammar, and tool of choice—her signature red pen—Lu became a beloved and respected colleague, forming friendships that lasted far beyond her retirement at the age of 75.

Lu’s devotion extended well beyond her immediate family. Her siblings, in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews all held a special place in her heart. She valued the bonds of family deeply and took great pleasure in maintaining those connections throughout her life. To Lu, family was never simply about special occasions; it was about being present, staying connected, and sharing in one another’s everyday lives.

Above all else, Lu’s greatest happiness came from her family. She treasured every moment spent with her nine grandchildren and one great-grandson, who brought immeasurable joy and laughter into her life. They were all woven into the fabric of her everyday world, from frequent visits to her kitchen, surprise stops at her office, countless phone calls, text messages, sporting events, and family celebrations. She took a genuine interest in each of their lives, offering encouragement, wisdom, “it could always be worse!” and unconditional love.

Lu was the beloved wife of the late Ron Aiello; loving mother of Joy (Randy) Andresen, Julie (Jerry) Iavarone, Jana (Sean) Maher, and Jill (Marty) Schiller; and proud grandmother of Anthony (Mikaela), Joseph, and Michael Iavarone; Ryan, Dylan (Taylor), and Rachel Maher; and Mady (Gonzo), Lindsey, and Chloe Schiller.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph and Angela Galasso.

Lu was the loving sister of the late Nicholas (the late Jeanine) Galasso, the late Michael (the late Joyce) Galasso, and the late Camille Galasso; fond sister-in-law of the late John (the late Carmella) Aiello and the late Rocco (the late Gloria) DeCarlo; and a loving aunt to many wonderful nieces and nephews.

A special acknowledgment goes out to all of Lu’s dear friends at The Sheridan of Oak Brook, whose friendship and companionship brought her so much joy, laughter, and life. Our family extends its heartfelt gratitude to Lu’s devoted caregivers, Cece, Jocelyn, and Gie, for their unwavering compassion and loving care.

Our role model for life. Forever classy. Forever dignified. Forever loved.

Visitation and Chapel Service Saturday, November 7, 2026 Chapel Hill Gardens West 17W201 Roosevelt Road Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 Visitation: 12:00–3:30 p.m. Chapel Service: 2:00–3:00 p.m. The chapel service will be livestreamed, details to follow.