Dorothy Portelli - 91

Chicago Heights, Illinois

On June 7, 2023, in her 91st year, Dorothy Portelli peacefully left this world to join her beloved husband, James.  Her family envisions them in each other’s arms once again, dancing to their song “Near You”.  They are both deeply missed and forever in our hearts. Originally from Chicago Heights, IL, Dorothy and Jim settled in Homewood.  They cherished their family and instilled in them strong values, traditions, and beliefs, leading by example.  A deeply spiritual woman and devout Catholic, Dorothy prayed the rosary daily and would often say, “prayer can move mountains”.  She enjoyed many years as a stay-at-home mom and grandmother and did so unconditionally.  Dorothy was a talented self-taught cook, and her kitchen prowess lives on through her treasured recipes and the two generations of cooks she inspired.  She maintained a meticulous household and possessed the ability to transform her look from housewife to model in record time.  Sheer perfection!  With her move to Rochester, NY to be near her loving family, she continued to enjoy life on her own terms and lived independently until she passed.  She delighted in spending time with family and friends who lovingly described her as vivacious, resolute and someone who didn’t look or act her age.  Dorothy is preceded in death by her husband, James Portelli, her parents, Lena LoBue and James Zerante, and her brother, James.  She is survived by her daughters: Cynthia (Terrence) Mullen and Sherry (Paul) Duchyns; grandchildren: Terrence Mullen, Jr., Timothy (Marguerite) Mullen, Jarett Duchyns and Lauren Duchyns Linville; great grandchildren: Hannah and Rose Mullen; and loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.  A mass celebrating Dorothy’s life will be held on July 28, 2023 at Our Lady of the Heights Parish/St. Kieran location, 724 195th Street, Chicago Heights, IL, beginning at 10:00 AM, with inurnment following at Assumption Cemetery, Glenwood.