Arlene Theresa Kortz

Arlene Theresa Kortz (Johnson), 89, of Oak Lawn, IL, beloved wife, mother, aunt, friend, and lifelong educator, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 8, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. She will be remembered for her warmth, her bright spirit, and the gentle way she touched the lives of everyone around her.
Proud of her Swedish heritage, Arlene was raised in Chicago and graduated from Calumet High School. She began her college studies at the University of Illinois and later transferred to the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) to be with her future husband. Eventually, her brother joined them there, creating a cherished family chapter filled with lasting memories and close friendships.
Arlene shared a beautiful life with her husband, Tommy, a partnership filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Tommy always brought joy and laughter to her days, and their deep bond was evident to all who knew them. They treasured every moment together, supporting and delighting in each other's company throughout their lives.
Arlene dedicated her career to nurturing young minds, first as a 4th grade teacher and later as a school librarian. She believed in the magic of stories and the importance of learning, creating classrooms and libraries filled with encouragement, wonder, and lasting memories for her students.
Arlene loved sports and never missed a chance to cheer for her favorite teams. She followed Ole Miss football with pride, enjoyed watching Richards High School sports where her nephew Jeffrey coaches, and kept up with Chicago sports teams throughout the year.
She also cherished her lifelong connection to Thoroughbred horses. Arlene and her late husband, Tommy, shared a deep passion for racing, owning racehorses and spending countless hours at the track. She loved the energy, tradition, and excitement of the racetrack, and fondly shared stories of her experiences that brought laughter and joy to family and friends for years to come.
Arlene treasured sunshine and time near the water, especially summer days on the shores of Lake Michigan. She loved traveling with her dear friends Vivian Tadin and Connie Theodore, and some of her most memorable trips included Alaska, Hawaii, and Scandinavia. She enjoyed recounting the adventures and memories from her travels with warmth and delight.
Above all, Arlene cherished her family. Time spent together brought her the greatest joy, and she treasured every moment with those she held dear. She also adored the loving companionship and cuddles from the family dogs, who were a constant source of comfort and happiness.
Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, Tommy Kortz; children, Gary Kortz and Diane Kortz; parents, Martin Johnson and Sigrid Johnson (Hogland); brother, Arnold Johnson (Elizabeth); sister-in-law, Billie Kortz; niece Lee Ann Kortz. She is survived by her niece, Cari (Chris) Edwards, and their children Lucas (Dana) Edwards and their daughter Ada, and Lindsey Edwards; her nephew, Jeffrey (Laura) Kortz, and their children Brittany (Dan) LaBerry, Matthew Hutner, and Kara Hutner; and brother-in-law, Otho Kortz.
Arlene leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, curiosity, and gentle strength. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Visitation Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Chapel Service 12:00 p.m. at Curley Funeral Home, 6116 W. 111th St., Chicago Ridge. Interment Oak Hills Cemetery.
For Funeral info: 708-422-2700 or www.curleyfuneralhome.com.