Leona J. DeBernardi, 96 , known to friends as “Lee”, entered into eternal rest February 5, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona.
A visitation is planned at the Ottawa Funeral Home 1111 LaSalle Street on Saturday, March 1 from 10:00 am until 10:30 am. A memorial mass will follow at St. Patrick’s Church 726 W Jefferson St Ottawa, IL at 11:00 am. Friends and family who attend are invited to Annies Hideaway at noon for food and fellowship.
Leona was born in Streator, Illinois May 17, 1928 to the late Andrew and Anna Ballock. She married James “Kaker” DeBernardi Jr. of Ottawa, Illinois who preceded her in death on March 2, 2024. Their married life was just short of 75 years and was blessed with two sons, Daniel, who also preceded her in death on September 12, 2008 and Gary who owns and operates his CPA practice in Phoenix, Arizona. Lee and Kaker spent many summers at their lake side cabin in Minnesota. Lee enjoyed cooking, gardening, collecting antiques, fishing, hunting and talking with friends and neighbors. She prayed the rosary daily and offered intercessory prayers for many others.
Leona is survived by her son, Gary and his wife Debby; two granddaughters, Shannon married to Jesse Eckenroth and Kendra, married to Robbie Sorensen. She loved her eight great grandchildren: Caden, Davin, Jaxon, Makenna and Eliana Eckenroth, and Van, Gemma, and Freya Sorensen. Spending time at the lake, playing on the playground, teaching them how to fry fish, tie knots, and clean was just a few of her good times with them. She was especially grateful to be able to see her grandson play hockey, get pictures and hugs from the kids, and attend church and holidays with family in her last season of life on earth.
Leona was laid to rest in the Garden of The Last Supper at Oakwood Memorial Park.