JANET DELLA-PIETRA

Janet Della-Pietra, of Sugar Grove, claimed the promise of her Savior, passing into Heaven on Monday, May 16, 2022.

She was born April 12, 1944, in Miami, FL.

Janet grew up in Miami and attended local schools. When she turned 16, Janet made her way into the world, making her mark at every stop. 

Janet and Ronald J Della-Pietra were united in marriage in January of 1961 and began their new life together in California. Janet eventually followed Ron as he rose through the ranks of the United States Air Force. They were blessed with two sons, Robert and Ronald A. before their family became complete. They made their home in many places over the years, though K.I. Sawyer  Air Force Base in Michigan was their favorite. Eventually they would take separate paths, and Janet spent 26 years in Shreveport, LA before declining health brought her back to her son, Robert. His job with the railroad took them to Texas twice before migrating north to Illinois in 2006.

Janet spent many years in insurance sales for many different companies in many different states. She would retire in 2003 and focus all her attention and love on her grandchildren.

Janet had a strength of spirit that rivaled no one, fighting all her battles head on, including a cancer diagnosis of cancer in 2003. The doctors did not give her much of a chance, but they didn’t know Janet very well, as she surpassed their expectations, including surgery, to make 19 more years of memories. Her faith was her bedrock and from which she drew her strength. It was a faith she would pass down to her children and grandchildren. During her lifetime of travel, Janet had a handful of favorite destinations including Hot Springs, AR, Oklahoma City, OK and her favorite, Gulf Shores, AL in 2001. She was a self-taught cook who brought everyone to the table with anticipation and leave with satisfied smiles. Her grandchildren were premiere in her life, and she was so proud to be called “Memaw”. Janet left her indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her and will be forever missed.

She leaves behind two sons: Robert Della-Pietra and Ronald (Robin) Della-Pietra; two grandchildren: Robert James “The Bun” (Sarah) Della-Pietra and Aubrey Della-Pietra and a family of friends.  

She now joins her mother, nine siblings, and a grandson, Quenton Della-Pietra, in infancy, who preceded her in death.

Private services have already been held.

Memories and tributes may be left on the Conley Funeral Home Facebook Page, or at www.conleycare.com.