Dorothy M. Vallera

Age 79, at rest Thursday, December 4, 2008. Loving mother to Raymond (Cheryl) Vallera of AZ, Sharon (Roger) Clark, Nancy Vallera and Robert Vallera. Adored Grandmother (""LaLa"") to Raymond (Jenny) Vallera of AZ, Candi (Dannen King) Vallera of CA, Tammy, Phil, James, Joe and Jennifer Studnicka, Robert Jr., Jessica and Joseph Vallera, Roger Clark II; Doting Great-Grandmother of Tony Studnicka, Jacob Eubanks, Skylar King, Hayley and Brandi Vallera and Jamey Studnicka, Loving Godmother to Cynthia Vallera and Christopher McDonald. Loving sister to Stella Oard, brother and sister-in-law, Americo ""Val"" (Freida) Vallera and Lucy (Jack) McDonald. Also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Preceded in death by her loving husband, Albert (""Papa Al"") Vallera (1998); parents, Walter and Helen (nee Grabin) Prajzner; one brother, Walter (Zella) Prajzner; one sister Agnes (Phil) Prebis; brother in law, Melvin Oard, Sr.; sister and brother-in-law, Anthony ""Tony"" (Nancy) Vallera. Dorothy was born in Joliet and a life-long resident. She was a woman of tremendous faith that lead to her dedication to several organizations including the Columbianettes, Council of Catholic Women (Woman of the Year, 1989), Catholic Women"s League, Woman"s Club of Joliet, St. Patrick"s Guild, Secular Order of Franciscan Sisters, American Federation of Musicians, Joliet Federation of Musicians, Local 337, Joliet Chamber of Music Society, PNA, Miraculous Medal of Mary Association, Legion of Mary and Daughters of Isabella. She enjoyed sharing her musical talents playing her accordion throughout her lifetime, especially with those in nursing homes. It brought her the greatest joy to see those in attendance smiling and sharing memories evoked by her selections as well as special requests.

From where services will be held on Wednesday to St. Ambrose Church for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am. Entombment at Resurrection Cemetery, Romeoville, IL. Visitation will be Tuesday from 2 ""A�?? 8 pm.