Wilma A. Calderone, 70, of Utica, formerly of Forest Park, died unexpectedly on Sept. 21, 2024. Born in Chicago on Sept. 23, 1953 to the late August and Sharon Calderone, she was raised in Forest Park and graduated from Proviso East High School. She succeeded in business as a boutique owner, Mary Kay beauty consultant, and antique retailer. She found joy in trying new recipes, reading books, tending to her many gardens and organizing her vintage collectibles. After many years of hard work, she embraced her retirement by cherishing the simple joys of life — spending time in the comfort of her home, caring for her beloved grandson, and sharing her passion for cooking with family and friends.
Wilma was the sister of Anne (Ron) Fenske, Anthony (Lois) Calderone, Harry Calderone, Sharon (Rick) Busenbark, Dorothy (Matt) Bentel, and David (Barb) Calderone; the mother of Eric Andersen and Michelle Andersen; grandmother to Hayley, Chase, Carter, and Dario; and aunt of many nieces and nephews.
Visitation was held on Sept. 28, followed by a memorial service at Zimmerman-Harnett Funeral Home, 7319 Madison St., Forest Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Illinois Valley PADS online, ivpads.com, or mail your donations to Illinois Valley PADS, P.O. Box 1012, LaSalle, IL 61301.