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Donna M. Arnold, age 85, passed away unexpectedly but peacefully on July 12, 2023 at Ascension Saint Joseph Medical Center in Joliet surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 2, 1938 to her parents William T. Vogrin Sr. and Cecelia M (Ambrosch) Vogrin in Joliet.
On November 9, 1963 at St. John's Catholic Church, Donna married the love of her life, James E. Arnold. They spent 59 happy years together until his passing on January 9, 2023. Together they proudly raised three wonderful children. Donna practiced her strong faith at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, enjoyed going on bus trips, and loved being a member of the Senior Citizen Association. She dedicated her life to her family and was best known for her hard work. You did not have to spend much time with Donna to notice that her work ethic was truly unmatched and something she instinctively passed down to her children. Some of her fondest moments were created throughout the 33 years she spent working at Jewel Osco. She may be the only person who cried tears of sadness rather than joy on her retirement day.
However, above all, Donna's greatest life achievement was her family. There was not a thing in the world she wouldn't do for the people she loved. She always put her family's needs before her own. Calling her selfless would be an understatement. Donna's greatest memories were made with her family. She never turned down an opportunity to babysit her grandchildren and enjoyed every minute spent with them. She loved being at all of their activities and was a fixture in the front row. Not only was she certain to be there, but she was certain to be there an hour early. Her famous chocolate chip cookies were loved by everyone and a staple at every family gathering. We will continue aspiring to show others the devotion and true love that Donna showed us. We find comfort in knowing that we are the lucky ones who had the privilege of being loved by Donna Marie Arnold.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband, James E. Arnold; her parents William T. Vogrin Sr. and Cecelia M. (Ambrosch) Vogrin; grandson, Brian Hyde; brother, William (late Janice) Vogrin; her in-laws, John and Anna (McNally) Arnold; brother-in-law, John "Bill" William (late Irene Murphy) Arnold and sister-in-law, Sr. Anne Arnold OSF.
Survived by her loving and devoted children Denise (Glenn) Schmeltz, Deborah (Jeff) Hyde, and James (Renee) Arnold; her adored grandchildren, Dean (Allie Morgan) Schmeltz, Dinah Schmeltz, Bradley Hyde, and Ryan, Nicole, and Megan Arnold; her cherished twin brother, Donald Vogrin; and many other dear family members and friends.
Memorial Visitation will be Friday, July 21, 2023, at O'NEIL FUNERAL HOME, 1105 E. 9th St., Lockport, IL 60441 from 4:00pm until 7:00pm. Family and friends are welcomed to join the Arnold family in celebrating Donna's life with a Memorial Mass on Saturday, July 22, 2023, 10:00am at St. Patrick's Church 710 W. Marion St., Joliet, 60436. Private inurnment will be held at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Romeoville at a later date. Family and friends can sign the online guestbook at www.oneilfuneralhome.com
Friday
O'Neil Funeral Home and Heritage Crematory
4:00 - 7:00 pm
Saturday
St. Patrick's Catholic Church
Starts at 10:00 am
Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Romeoville
Visits: 1
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