Orietta Brunini

Orietta Brunini, age 96, of Lake Forest, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2024, at Sunrise of Highland Park. She was born on September 7, 1928, in Fornoli, Luca, Italy, to the union of Basilio and Lina (Amidei) Pieri. In 1948, Orietta married Silvio Brunini in Fornoli and immigrated to the United States with her parents and brother in 1949.

Orietta was a prominent figure in her community as the owner of Roberts Clothing Store in Highwood. She was one of the first women to join the Highwood Chamber of Commerce and the Highwood Bocce Ball Club, where she showcased her passion for the game by participating in international tournaments. Her love for bocce was matched only by her deep commitment to St. James Church, where she was an active member, as well as a participant in the Sacred Heart Guild and the former Italian Women’s Prosperity Club.

In her retirement, Orietta enjoyed working at Amidei Market in Lake Forest during the summers. A talented cook, she cherished the time spent teaching her grandchildren how to make pasta, and she was renowned for her delicious custard. Orietta also enjoyed her winters as a snowbird in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The loves of her life were her grandchildren and her beloved son-in-law. Orietta is survived by her daughter, Emma (John) Schorsch of Hawthorn Woods; her grandson, John (Jennifer) Tammaro of Davidson, NC; and her three cherished grandchildren, John "Tripp," Reid, and Laine. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Frances Pieri of Highwood.

Orietta was preceded in death by her husband Silvio, her brother Walter, and her parents.

Visitation will be held on Monday, October 28, 2024, from 9:00 AM until the time of the funeral mass at 10:00 AM at Christ Our Hope Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, 770 Deerfield Road, Highland Park. Interment will follow at Ascension Cemetery, 1920 Buckley Road, Libertyville, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, the family appreciates donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Orietta will be remembered for her vibrant spirit, her dedication to family, and her contributions to her community.

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