Mario Ionta

MARIO IONTA passed away on May 7, 2023. Devoted husband of Janine and loving father to Sam, Stacy (Erik), Christopher, Carly (Patrick), Amanda (Tom), Brandon, and Austin. Grandfather to Sammy, Evan, Erika, Ethan, Colton, Jackson, Abigail, Tate, Fiona, and Carter. Brother to Pasquale (Gloria), Rolando (Jill), Elisabetta (Rick), Maria (Mike), and the late Domenico. Son of the late Giuseppa and Americo.
Born in Italy, Mario immigrated to the United States at the age of nine. His family settled in Cleveland, Ohio, where Mario eventually met his beloved wife Janine.
Mario earned a bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the Case Institute of Technology at Case Western Reserve University and began his career with Ohio Bell Telephone Company. Mario stayed with the company as it became AT&T, serving in a director role. Mario's career led him to move several times, and he ultimately settled in the Chicago suburbs. After retiring from AT&T, Mario accepted a position with Tellabs, where he worked as a director again.
At the end of his career, Mario worked with Premier Care, a company that allowed him to serve as a personal care support worker for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Mario was drawn to this type of work due to his son Brandon, who has Down Syndrome.
Mario led a fulfilling life centered around his family. He adored spending time with loved ones and always welcomed any excuse to hold a family barbecue. Mario nurtured and maintained strong family ties throughout his life. He would often organize family reunions, gathering his siblings for get-togethers that created invaluable memories.
He dedicated time to coaching his kids' soccer teams, sharing his love for the sport that he played from his youth into early adulthood.
In his free time, Mario found joy in taking care of the family horses at the barn. He was often accompanied on these trips by his beloved dog, Geena.
Mario had a great affinity and knowledge of mathematics. He welcomed every opportunity to discuss numbers, whether it was reviewing college-level math with his grandkids or negotiating car deals. Mario had a knack for negotiation and relished every opportunity to employ his skills.
Mario's life can be defined by his love for his family, alongside them, he led a meaningful and fulfilling life. Mario left behind a legacy of love and joy. He will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
A funeral mass celebrating Mario's life will be held on Friday, June 2, 2023 at 10:30am at St. Raphael Catholic Church at 1215 Modaff Road, Naperville, IL 60540. To honor Mario, in lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the family directly.