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Katherine Cerullo Obituary
Katherine L. "Katie" Cerullo, passed away suddenly on Dec. 11, 2007 at the age of 28. Born in Chicago on Feb. 11, 1979, Katie was the loving daughter of Leonard and Cheryl; the cherished sister of Lauren and Whitney; the fond sister-in-law of Edward; and the adoring niece and cousin to many. Katie, a true lover of literature, graduated from Oak Park - River Forest High School, Oak Park, IL, attended Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA, studied theater at DePaul University, Chicago, IL, and interned with the Shattered Globe Theatre in Chicago. Devoted to her dogs, Pepper Ann and Luke, memorial donations may be made in Katie's honor to PAWS Chicago Adoption and Humane Center, 1110 W. 35th Street, Chicago, IL 60609, Attn: Deborah Chapman, 773-843-2508.
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Memories and Condolences
for Katherine Cerullo
Sponsored by Lauren Cerullo.
Patricia Packham
December 9, 2023
Thinking of you and sending prayers.
Patricia Packham RN
Marlene Spicuzza
December 8, 2023
I think of Katie often. She was a wonderful, creative student and a delightful young woman.
Patricia Pay
December 8, 2022
Thinking of you and your family Dr. Cerullo.
Patricia Packham,RN
(CINN)
Mary Richie
December 8, 2020
I remember with great fondness the Cerullo twins in my classroom in River Forest and want to share with you what a joy it was to teach both of them.
Bridie Hickman
December 10, 2012
Remembering Katie! Thinking of You.
Tanya Washington
August 18, 2012
Dear Cerullo family, I'm so sorry for your loss of Katie. I worked at CINN, and I had the pleasure of knowing Katie from her being in the Medical Records Dept. I was just looking for Katie online, and just found out. I am so so sorry, my prayers are with you all...
Patricia Packham
July 3, 2011
Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo,
I recently heard about your Katie. My heart and prayers are with you. I know your pain so well...I lost my daughter June 26, 2009. God needed "special" Angels.
Patricia Packham, RN
Patti (CINN)
The Endurer
September 9, 2009
If there was a way for her to peak through heaven to witness your wedding then I'm sure God made a way. If there was a way for her to send you an unmarked gift, then I'm sure God made a way. If there was a way for her to be a bridesmaid without anyone knowing except you feeling her by your side, I'm sure God made a way. That's life and only He can bring beauty in death, only he can bring life to marriage. Do as Katy would have you do....life life and life it to the fullest.
Barbara Morris
August 11, 2009
Dear Cheryl and Len, Lauren and Whitney
I just heard about Katie and it is with profound sadness, I send my condolences. I really don't the have proper words to express the shocked and sad feelings this news brings.
She was such a very bright spot in so many lives I am sure she is and always will be greatly missed.
I remember Kyle and Katie and Lauren playing together as children, and it brings fond memories to mind.
Again my thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
April 3, 2009
April 3rd,2009
Dear Dr Cerullo,So sorry to hear about Katie's death,I just heard about it today.May her soul rest in perfect peace may almighty God fill the empthy spot she left in you and your family's heart.
With profond love Adiat Abiodun-Ewuosho
Jessica Rothstein
August 17, 2008
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
Unfortunately being out of the Chicago area for awhile I just heard of Katie's passing from a friend and am shocked and incredibly saddened. I have many fond memories of spending time with Katie and Lauren and your whole family at your homes in River Forest, Chicago, and Woodstock. From the first time I met Katie I was struck by her intelligence, compassion, humor, and strength. I am so sorry for your loss and hope to get in touch with Lauren somehow. My thoughts are with your family.
Iliana Sweis
May 13, 2008
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo:
I learned of Katie's death just earlier this afternoon from a mutual patient. The shocking news left me completely numb. I am so sorry for your incredible loss. I pray that time will soften the pain that your family is enduring. Please know that you and Katie will be in my prayers.
Susan Dziak
April 6, 2008
Dear Cerullo Family,
We were so sad to hear of the loss of Katie. Jenny and I have many fond memories of the play dates and birthday parties with Katie and Lauren. We still have a copy of the fun music video that the girls made at Navy Pier. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Jenny and I would love to meet with you and Lauren for lunch or dinner while she is still living in Chicago. Please let us know when it is convenient for you to meet us. With love and prayers,
Maeve Strucker
February 4, 2008
Dear Cerullo Family,
I was heartbroken to hear of Katie's passing. I knew her at Wellesley, and while we fell out of touch afterward, I've thought of her often and fondly since. I was in awe of her seemingly boundless intelligence, talent and generosity and always hoped we would cross paths again.
My thoughts are with you,
marco raimondi
January 16, 2008
To the Cerullo Family:
An old patient of Lenny & my dad called me to let me know of the loss of your precious daughter and sister, Katie; I believe my dad was Katie's godfather. I first met Katie when she was an infant (I was an adolescent) and a second time several years ago at "Pizza D.O.C." (I was by then... middle-aged).
Although I did not know your lovely daughter/sister, it is clear that she was a poet and had a profound influence on, and love for her family, her friends, and her dogs. I will send my prayers out tonight for the peaceful rest of her soul, and that God embraces this young woman, her family and friends.
Marco Raimondi & Family
Arthur Almassy
January 15, 2008
Dear Len & Cheryl...
Late this afternoon, in a phone conversation with Dr. Ghaly, I learned of your loss. I'm numb, and grieve with you and your family over Katie's passing.
I will be in touch.
Arthur Almassy
Andrea and James Damenti
January 4, 2008
Dear Dr. Cerullo and Family,
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your daughter. We pray that you receive the same comfort and compassion to heal that you have given to those in your care.
Janet Haisman
January 3, 2008
To all the Cerullos -- We were so saddened to learn of Katie's loss. Collectively we have dozens of years of memories of her as a truly special person. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. On behalf of Betty McGhee and the RACS (River Forest Alumni Club -- all former River Forest teachers and staff members)
Linda Levine
January 1, 2008
Dear Cerullo Family,
I am so deeply sorry to hear of Katie's passing. She was such a wonderful student in my freshman honor's English class - a delight to teach, a pleasure to chat with. I remember her passion for the Beatles!
Please accept my heatfelt condolences.
Nancy Vertuno
December 28, 2007
Dear Len,Cheryl,Lauren and Whitney
Please accept our deepest sympathy to all of you on your great loss of Katie.
Love from Len and Nancy Vertuno
Rex Wilson
December 27, 2007
Len, Cheryl and family,
My deepest condolences to you and your family. Katie had a bright and adventurous spirit that the world will miss.
Rex Wilson
suzanne young
December 26, 2007
our family was saddened to hear of the death of your daughter. The Young Family
Marlene Spicuzza
December 22, 2007
Dear Dr, and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren and Whitney,
I just learned of Katie's death today and I am devastated by this news. Katie was one of my all-time favorite students in English Literature Honors at OPRFHS, as was her twin sister Lauren.
She was intelligent, witty, fun loving,creative and had a personal charm that was magnetic. I was just thinking about her a few days ago and hoping I could find out where she was. I will never forget her passion for Emma Thompson, her playwriting and performing in class,and her insights on literature and life.
I last heard from her a few years ago when she was living in the Bucktown-Lincoln Park are. I looked forward to our talks and get togethers.
I am so terribly sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Glena and John McDonald
December 22, 2007
Dear Cerullo family,
We send our deepest sympathies to you regarding this inestimable loss.
Lindsay DeRemer Keeney
December 22, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
I remember meeting Katie my first day of high school. She was the biggest reason I didn't hesitate when I made my decision to attend Wellesley the year after she enrolled there. She was an amazing, incredible woman and I will never forget her. I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that my thoughts are with you.
Joy Delneky
December 21, 2007
Dr.and Mrs. Cerullo,
I have followed this same path many years ago. Time eases. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. You will be in my prayers.
Sean Ristau
December 21, 2007
The Cerullo Family,
Please know my thoughts and prayers are with the family.
Kind Regards,
Sean K. Ristau
Carol Hafencher
December 21, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs.Cerullo & family,
You are always in my prayers.
I pray for all of you and your family and friends at this difficult time in your lives.God be with everyone of you.
Carol Hafencher
cinn
Lester and Helen Pasik
December 19, 2007
Cheryl and Len. Our deepest heart felt sympathy and condolences to you both, and to all of the Cerullo family on the loss of your daughter Kattie
Lynn Winikates
December 19, 2007
Dear Len, Cheryl and family,
Please accept our deepest sympathy on the death of Katie. Although her life was tragically short, she seemed to have lived every minute to the fullest. Letter to follow. Lynn and Jim Winikates
Bonnie Whitmore
December 18, 2007
Dr. Cerullo,
My sadness on the loss of your precious daughter is deep. To you and your family; may God keep you in his loving arms and eventually bring you emotional & spiritual peace. God bless you all. I will keep you in my prayers. Once again...I am so sorry for your loss.
Sincerely,
Bonnie Whitmore, RN
NOIC
Mary Richie
December 18, 2007
What a pleasure the twins were to teach at Willard. How sparkling was your Katie, much like a candle burning so very brightly. May God find her lively spirit as much a consolation in heaven as we have had all too briefly on earth.
Elizabeth McArdle
December 18, 2007
Dear Dr. & Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
I'll always remember Katie to be smart and funny, and I feel lucky that I got a chance to know her. She also was a phenomenal cook who not only enjoyed good food and great company, but created it. The meal she cooked for us sophomore year of college will go down in history. The times I spent with Katie - from Georgetown to Deer Valley to Chicago - were always full of laughter and adventure. She had a way of infecting fun.
I am so, so sorry for such a great loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and pets of Katie.
Carolyn Rapoport (Roos)
December 18, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren and Whitney,
I was so sorry to hear of Katie's passing. In many ways it seems like just yesterday that we were celebrating birthdays and attending Willard and Roosevelt. Katie was an intelligent, sparkling girl who holds a special place in my memories and my heart. I will always remember her sense of humor and ability to make anyone smile. Please know that my family and I are thinking about you at this most difficult time.
Fondly,
Beth (Millman) Dries
December 18, 2007
Dear Cerullo Family,
I was so saddened to hear about Katie passing. I remember her as one of the funniest girls in our junior high class that would make everyone laugh at lunch. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Russ Hollander
December 17, 2007
Dr. Cerullo and family,
I am so saddened by your loss. Katie was a special gift and I know you will miss her greatly. Her love of family and compassion for animals will be her legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying time. Wishing you peace.
Stephanie Kuehnert
December 17, 2007
Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
I wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Katie was one of the smartest people I knew and she was someone I always looked forward to seeing at school because she made my days brighter and always could make me laugh no matter how I was feeling. Hold on to the smiles and laughter and know that you are in my thoughts.
Patt Chase
December 17, 2007
Len, Cheryl, Lauren & Whitney:
What can we say. Our hearts are heavy with sadness. Katie was a twin yet one of a kind. We fondly remember all the weekends Katie and Lauren spent in Wisconsin and how the girls wanted a place of their own, hence, Woodstock. We remember all the outings and birthday parties the girls attended together since Junion Kindergarten like it was yesterday. Please know that Katie and you are in our thoughts and prayers. We will miss her shining light. All our love,
The Chases
Paul & Patt; Pam & Chris Smith, Paul, Jr. & Ruby.
Kathy Quaid
December 17, 2007
Dear Cheryl & Family,
No words can ease your pain, please know so many friends are thinking about you including me, I am so sorry for your loss, Fondly, Kathy
Audrea Montalbano
December 16, 2007
Dear Len, Cheryl, Lauren and Whitney,
I am so deeply saddened to hear about Katie's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. Katie was one of the best. She will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. If there is anything we are able to do please let us know.
All our Love and Prayers,
Audrea and Family
Kelly Iosello
December 16, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo and Lauren and Whitney,
It is very difficult to understand why God should call Katie home so suddenly. But, we know Him and we trust Him and all will be right.
Have you ever examined the wrong side of a stitched tapestry? You see nothing but a tangle of threads, crossed and re-crossed. It looks like a big mistake. One would think that someone had done it who did not know what s(he) was doing. But when you turn it over and look at the right side, you see a beautifully embroidered creation.
It is so hard not to look at this today from the wrong side. Someday we shall see it from another standpoint and shall understand. Katie sees it from this standpoint now, as she joyously is held by the hands of the weaver.
Katie celebrated life, and her life will be eternally and in eternity joyously celebrated.
God bless you all, always,
Kelly Iosello
Rick Carr
December 16, 2007
Dr. & Mrs Cerullo,
You have my deepest sympathy for your loss, I will keep her in my prayers.
Fred and Maryanne Fishman
December 16, 2007
Dear Len, Cheryl, Lauren and Whitney
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Our deepest condolences
Elise Lammers
December 15, 2007
Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren and Whitney,
Katie talked about you all the time. I often heard stories that expressed how much she loved you. She was one of the most beautiful people to grace this earth, and I feel luck to have know her. I feel lucky to know all of you. She touched as many people with her bright, vibrant light than some do that live to an old age. I will miss her more deeply than I can describe.
Christopher Haynes
December 15, 2007
Len, Cheryl, Lauren and Whitney,
It was an honor knowing your daughter and sister. My love and condolences to your family.
Courtney Wilson
December 15, 2007
Cheryl, Len, Lauren and Whitney,
Katie was one of the warmest, most intelligent, adventurous friends I have known. I feel so fortunate to have grown up with her and I will miss her terribly.
My love and deepest sympathy to your family.
Kate Lambert
December 15, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
I just wanted to let you know how sorry I was to hear about Katie. She was truly the smartest person I have ever met and I always admired her wit and fearlessness. Your generosity and warmth as a family are always something I was grateful for growing up and Katie was a large part of that.
Please know that I am thinking of your family.
Joan Anzia
December 15, 2007
Dear Len, Cheryl, Lauren and Whitney: we feel so profoundly sad at the news of Katie's death, and extend our deepest sympathy to you in this unimaginable loss. It seems to me not long ago when Katie spent many days at our house, sparking all kinds of games and adventures (Sarah said she would never have been able to chase Jordie Mackey in first grade without Katie spurring her on!) I loved having her over, because there was never a dull moment with Katie around. She was a bright star, and she will remain in my memory always as a girl full of life and fun. And for Sarah, who katie always called "A", she will always be at the center of her childhood memories.
With much affection and sorrow,
Joan
Angelo & Francine Militello
December 15, 2007
Dr & Mrs Cerullo,
The death of a child is a loss like no other. Our hearts are sad for you and you will be in our prayers as you cope with this great loss.
Mary and Chris Conway
December 15, 2007
Dear Cerullo Family,
Life is so unfair. I always admired what a loving family you are, I can't imagine your grief. Katie was very loved. That is rare. May comfort find you all.
Sara Heidenreich
December 15, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
I'm so sorry to be writing this. I was shocked and saddened to hear about Katie. I spent several hours last Saturday night telling my husband stories about Katie and trying to find her contact information. We'll be in Chicago over New Year's, and I was hoping to meet up with her. We were both looking forward to seeing her.
There are few people who have meant as much to me as Katie. I miss her terribly, and I cannot imagine the sorrow you must feel. I extend my condolences not only to you, but to all who loved Katie.
My deepest sympathies,
Tabitha Decker
December 14, 2007
Katie's extraordinary perspective on life and openness to the world had a profound impact on so many of us. There is no one like Katie and she will be missed dearly. My thoughts are with you all.
Luke Manganaro
December 14, 2007
Dear Cerullo Family,
I knew Kate and Lauren in High School. Kate was one of the most vibrant and wonderful people I have known. My family's thoughts are with you. She will be sorely missed
Basia Jedrol
December 14, 2007
Dear Dr. Cerullo and Family,
Please accept our deepest and heartfelt condolences. Our thoughts are with your family.
Basia and Grace
Truefitt & Hill
December 14, 2007
Our Katie
a blazing star---so full of fire that ignited each new passion that she embraced---
our lives will be less passionate--less interesting--less rich without her.
our love surrounds all of you.
Mary and Gerry
The Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans
December 14, 2007
Our most heart felt sympathies. May God give you and your family strength at this time. Our prayers are with you.
Dr. Frank Trocchio
December 14, 2007
Dear Cheryl & Len: Please accept my deepest condolences on such a tragic loss. My prayers will be with Katie and your entire family. God bless you all
Yvette Matuszak
December 14, 2007
I am so sorry to hear about Katie. I remember Katie at Roosevelt Junior High like it was yesterday. You are in my thoughts Cheryl and Len.
Yvette Matuszak Houston, Texas
Jennifer (Dziak) Waldo
December 14, 2007
Dear Cerullo Family,
I was so sad to hear about Katie. I went to school with both Katie and Lauren for K-5 and remember what a sweet and loving person she was. My heart goes out to all of you and I pray for God's strength to help you through this time.
Love,
Jenny
Elise Coleman
December 14, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren, and Whitney,
Katie had incredible talent for everything she touched, and could charm the pants off of anyone. I miss her profoundly. My tears and sympathy are with you. Much love.
Joe the Tooth
December 14, 2007
Dear Dr. Cerullo, Cheryl, Lauren, and Whitney,
I was very sad to hear about Katie. We have lost someone truly special. Katie's intelligence sparked my first thoughts about returning to college after my years in the horse business. I hoped one day I could be as smart as her. I'm sure I am not there yet.
Katie's adventurous spirit is crystallized for me in my memories of her climbing in the rafters at the barn all the time (while spooking her sisters' horses in the ring)!
Heaven must be a place where people are reunited with the humans and animals who they have loved. How can it be any other way? That is how I know Katie (and my brother-in-law John) are okay.
Thinking about you all,
Michelle Valteau
December 14, 2007
Katie was a cherished friend to many of us at Wellesley. Her generosity and laughter will be remembered fondly.
Deborah Johnson
December 14, 2007
Cheryl and Len
There are no words to take away the pain. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I almost lost David last year and the wait to see if he would make it was horrible. Cheryl I think about you so often and I just wanted you to know that. I will pray for some peace for you I hope it will come
Debbie
Kristen Wilson
December 14, 2007
Katie was one of the smartest, wittiest, and most sincere people I have ever known. I feel so lucky that she was in my life for more than 20 years.
My deepest sympathy and love goes out to your family.
Sarah Anzia
December 14, 2007
Len, Cheryl, Lauren, and Whitney,
You are in my thoughts and prayers. Katie was a spectacular kid. I was truly lucky to have her as a childhood friend... K-5 would have been a lot less fun without her as my adventurous sidekick.
My love and condolences to you in this time of grief.
Toni Brown
December 14, 2007
I work with Heather Kubkowski who informed me of the death. Please accept my deepest sorrows, although I didn't know her I can relate to losing someone so young.
She is now living in a mansion with Jesus.
Han Pham
December 14, 2007
Dear Cerullos,
So many times during first year of college I felt that Katie was like family. She tolerated my weekly need to rearrange the room. Her spontaneity took us on several adventures through the suburbs of Boston on quests to find such delights as the Taco Bell. What a generous, quirky soul. I miss her terribly.
December 14, 2007
Dear Dr. and Mrs. Cerullo, Lauren and Whitney,
We send you our prayers and deepest sympathy for Katie. It was a true pleasure being your neighbors many years ago.
Mike and Michael Petros
Cara Petros Duerkop
Jane Thulis
December 14, 2007
Dear Cheryl and Lennie,
I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Matthew Lambert
December 14, 2007
It was with great sadness that our family learned of Katie's death. She was a wonderful person full of spirit and intelligence. Our daughter, Kate, has fond memories of Katie's support for her during her high school years and beyond. Our deepest sympathies and prayers are extended to Cheryl, Len, and the family.
The Lamberts
Patti Holzner (NOHC)
December 14, 2007
My deepest sympathy to the Cerullo family.
There are only a few words that can be expressed to help ease the pain and heartache... "Katie is safe and in God's loving arms."
May you, soon, find peace and comfort in knowing she is in Heaven.
In time, your hearts will be filled with only beautiful, everlasting memories of your daughter and sister.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Tracy Nummer
December 14, 2007
I'm so sorry to hear about Katie. I went to junior high and high school with her. She was a fabulous person to know.
Debra Lustrea
December 14, 2007
Dr. Cerullo and Family, I was so sorry to hear of your great loss. Our prayers are with you all. Having 3 young adults I know seeing them start to this time in their life is so precious. Katie is and will always be such a gift to you from God. We grieve along side you now, yet celebrate the life and precious memories of Katie. Debra Lustrea
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