Denise Marie Stone

With profound love and sadness, the family of Denise Marie Stone announces her passing on August 28, 2025, at the age of 58. Denise's life was one of laughter, love, and boundless devotion to her family and friends.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Donald E. Stone and Rosalie J. Wolanin, Denise grew up surrounded by the close bond of her siblings-Donna, Mark, Sue, and the late Linda (Joe). In 1978, her family moved to Wisconsin, where she spent her formative years enjoying the outdoors, exploring lakes and forests, fishing with her parents, and sharing countless jokes and adventures with her brothers and sisters. Even as a young girl, Denise was a jokester at heart-quick to make people laugh, full of energy, and always eager to be the life of the party.

Returning to Chicagoland as a young woman, Denise found joy in being close to her sister Donna and her nieces and nephews. Family celebrations, holidays, and birthdays were her happiest moments, where she made sure no seat at the table was left empty.

Denise later became a devoted mother, raising five beloved children: Danielle (Mario), the late Dominick, Jamie, Darien (Jessica), and Dylan. To Denise, motherhood was her greatest calling. She poured her energy into making sure her children had everything they needed, celebrated every milestone, and grew up surrounded by love. She never missed a game, a race, or a tournament, cheering proudly from the bleachers with her signature enthusiasm and laughter that filled the air.

Her home was always a place of warmth and abundance. Christmas, in particular, was her favorite time of year. From bins of cherished ornaments to a tree lit brighter than Times Square, Denise made the season magical. Known affectionately as "Nana Claus" in later years, she delighted in spoiling her grandchildren-Max, Harry, Dominick, Benjamin, Jacob, Joseph, Gavin, and Lucas-with gifts, laughter, and unconditional love.

Beyond family life, Denise embraced new adventures and friendships wherever she went. She was a regular at favorite diners and restaurants, unafraid to speak her mind with humor and charm. She found joy in road trips, nature getaways, and even unexpected adventures-like becoming a "biker chick" on a Harley after once insisting she'd never ride.

In her later years, Denise found happiness alongside her partner of over a decade, Brian Vesely. Together they enjoyed camping at Lost Acres in Monticello, Indiana, where Denise became the beloved Bingo caller and the spirited organizer of campground raffles. She had a gift for bringing people together, her laughter echoing across the campground just as it always had in her family home.

Denise's heart was golden and generous. She lived to make others smile, to gather people together, and to fill every room with love and laughter. She was resilient, strong-willed, and deeply loyal-a woman whose impact will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her loving children, cherished grandchildren, dear siblings, many nieces and nephews, and countless friends. Her legacy is one of joy, devotion, and togetherness.

May Denise rest in eternal peace, her spirit forever alive in the laughter, love, and beautiful memories she leaves behind.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted to Olen Funeral Home of Harvey: 15700 S. Emerald Ave., Harvey, IL 60426. A Memorial Visitation will be held for Denise Stone on Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 8:00 am until 11:00 am. Prayers to Commence at 9:45 am with Pastor Stephen Harvey of Northside Baptist Church of Hammond, IN officiating. Eulogies of the Immediate Family to follow. Prayers from Chapel at 11:00 am for 11:30 am arrival at Bella Mia Fine Dining of Midlothian, IL 60445 to commence A Celebration of Life Luncheon Service in Memory of Denise Marie Stone. All family, friends, and relatives are invited to join at Bella Mia and will be provided an open-mic opportunity to share memories, jokes, and stories, to honor the life of Denise Marie Stone.

Denise will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her, and may her soul rest in peace.