Mary Della Chiesa

Mary Della Chiesa was born in Gavirate (Varese) Italy on Sept 5, 1921. She married the late Patrick Della Chiesa on Sept 25, 1947. They moved to the United States on August 7, 1950 with their young son, James (Jim). Theirs was a true love story. Patrick was already a US Citizen and met Mary while stationed in Italy after World War II. They literally grew up in neighboring towns in Italy, but WWII brought them together. The family resided in East Chicago, Indiana from 1950 – 1969, then moved to Schererville in 1970. While living in the United States Mary was a homemaker known to happily volunteer for various organizations, but while she was in Italy, she was the owner and operator of a hardware store. She is survived by her son, James (Jim) Della Chiesa and two grandchildren David and Andrea, along with Jim’s wife of 36 years Mary (Mueller) Della Chiesa. ​ Mary was most proud of her 58 year marriage to Pat, and of course her family. Her interests primarily revolved around cooking and until recent years extensive travel with her husband and family. Mary resided at Hartsfield Village in Munster since June 2006. She actively participated in numerous activities both inside and outside of the community. She volunteered in the Village store and enjoyed helping any resident in need. Over her 99 yrs. Mary developed and nurtured so many lasting friendships. People were drawn to her contagious smile, her selflessness, big heart, caring spirit, and love of sharing recipes and cooking tips. Everyone uses the word “love” when describing her. She always found the best in people. She had a strong will and handled difficult times with grace and patience. Her character was an example we all strive to emulate. You can summarize her biggest interests into three categories: Family, Faith and Cooking! Family meant everything. Her world revolved around Pat, Jim and his family, and her beloved grandchildren David and Andrea. Nonna was always at the ready to babysit, attend an activity or sporting event, and of course cook for her grandchildren. She was so proud of her son Jim, and especially the wonderful adults her grandchildren grew into. She was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith. And, then there was “Cooking”! THAT was on her mind everyday and if you were her friend she would calculate when and how she could get that conversation started. You know what we're talking about! WE are lucky to have known her! Some of us more lucky to have lived and been loved by her, and some of us just lucky to have tasted one of her fine meals. Nonna, Thank you for being such a wonderful wife to Nonno, mother to me, grandmother (Nonna) to David and Andi, and for always being such an absolute delight to be, and live with. You raised me in the same spirit of Love, Help, and Compassion you displayed throughout your life! I could not be Prouder of You Mom! Let us Celebrate her 99 years of life and remember all those fond memories we had with her along the way! Thank you from the deepest part of my Heart! We Love You!...Jim Friends are invited and welcome to meet with the family on Saturday, January 9, 2021 from 10:00-11:30 AM at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home 8178 Cline Avenue Crown Point, IN. Due to Covid-19 restrictions for limited attendance, private funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM. Mary will be laid to rest at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, Crown Point, IN. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Maria Goretti Community Outreach, 500 Northgate Drive Dyer, IN 46311. Due to the current conditions of Covid-19, masks are required for attendance at the funeral home.