Claire Ann Storto (nee Sansone), of North Riverside, formerly of River Forest, died June 29. She was born July 14, 1932. She was wife of Donald, mother of Don, Ron, Dee Dee and the late Cara. Claire was a well-educated, intelligent and talented lady. She was a graduate of Michigan State University, earning a Master’s in Education. She taught fifth- and sixth-graders at Betsy Ross School in Forest Park, before marrying and beginning her own family. Mom was always on the go, lending her heart and time to all things. She was associated with The Special Olympics-Chicago and Chairman of Proventia School. She was a business owner of ‘Creative Hands Studio’ and was a nationally recognized decoupage art winner. She was also Student Body Liaison at Oak Park and River Forest High School, Chairman to River Forest Traffic & Safety Commission.
She was an avid golfer with 2 holes-in-one to her credit. She was committee head and chairman at Riverside Golf Club. She also worked as an election judge for Illinois Elections, and as a Marshall Field’s personal shopping assistant in Oak Brook. Claire personified the quintessential Italian Mother. She created a beautiful and loving home for our family and friends. She left us with fond memories for each holiday and every day. We had an open-door policy at our house, where all of our friends felt welcomed as she fed the neighborhood. She was a wonderful cook, always having a home-cooked meal ready for us, even when she and Dad would not be home and were off enjoying evenings with friends. She cultivated long-lasting friendships which our family had the pleasure of knowing. She taught us how to love, respect and to always be loyal to family and friends. A memorial service was held July 2 at Queen of Heaven Cemetery Chapel, with arrangements by Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, Forest Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Misericordia Home (http://www.misericordia.com), 6300 N. Ridge Avenue, Chicago, IL 60660 are appreciated.
