Obituary of Denise A. Lorenc
Denise A. Lorenc, age 58, of Joliet, passed away peacefully, Friday, April 28, 2023 at home, with her loving family by her side, following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born May 16, 1964 in Joliet, to Martin and Donna (Huber) Malek, she was a graduate of Joliet East High School, and later attended Joliet Junior College. Denise had a long and rewarding career with Commonwealth Edison, serving in numerous capacities until her retirement in January, 2022 after more than 37 years of service.
To know her well was to benefit from her kindness, positive attitude, genuineness and sense of humor. She always put the needs of others first, especially when it came to taking care of those she loved. She always had a smile on her face and never complained about anything. Her strong faith and the way she loved her family was an inspiration to many. Denise, Ken, and the girls were a very close family who laughed together, traveled the world together and shared a special life together. Denise will be remembered for her love of music and beautiful singing voice, and she generously shared her talent with numerous bands over the years, as well as with her church, The Church at HighPoint. Her other interests included travel, golf, camping, classic rock, and loving her canine friend, “Tootsie.” Denise also enjoyed volunteering with Bags of Hope, and was actively involved with the United Way through ComEd, including being a member of the United Way Band for over 20 years.
Denise is survived by her beloved husband of 32 years, Ken Lorenc; and her loving and devoted daughters, Haley Lorenc and Sara Lorenc, both of Chicago. She is also survived by a brother, Michael (Diane) Malek; and three nephews, Josh (Audra), Jeremy and Nathan Malek.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sisters, Doreen and Nancy.
A Memorial Gathering for Denise Lorenc will be held Saturday, May 6, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of her Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m., Noon, at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black Road, Joliet, IL 60431. Cremation rites have been accorded and interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials in her name to Project Purple. Her daughter, Haley, and some family friends have created a team to run the 2023 Chicago marathon to honor Denise: Miles that Matter - A Race for Denise and Pancreatic Cancer (https://donate.projectpurple.org/team/471212) All funds will go towards supporting the mission of finding a cure for pancreatic cancer and improving the lives of patients.
For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit her Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
