Search by Name

Search by Name

FUNERAL HOME

Salerno's Galewood Chapels

1857 N. Harlem Ave.

Elmwood Park, Illinois

Arlette Contento Obituary

Contento, Arlette V. Arlette was born in Chicago to Nick and Mary Argenzio, along with her four sisters, Rosalyn Groot, Beverly Argenzio, and the late Dr. Winifred Ursini and the late Marlene Mazzoni. Arlette passed away on Saturday following emergency surgery. She was predeceased by her husband, Dr. Michael J. Contento. Arlette was a loving mother to her sons; Dr. Kirk (Mary), Mark (Anne), Jann and Duane, and a devoted grandmother to her grandchildren; Alyssa, Brad, Lance, Taryn, Nathan and Blake. Arlette put aside her profession as a Podiatrist to concentrate on raising her family. She soon recognized her writing and verbal talents, serving as a columnist for several regional newspapers and working many years at the Chicago Sun Times. Arlette enjoyed the energy and enthusiasm of young adults and counted many of them among her numerous friends. Arlette loved high fashion, international travel, dancing and music, particularly Barbara Streisand, and lived independently, defiantly and joyfully on her own terms until the end. Visitation is Wednesday, October 3, at 11:30 AM, Salerno's Galewood Chapel, 1857 N. Harlem Ave., Chicago, IL. with Mass 1:00 PM at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, 1530 Jackson Ave., River Forrest, IL. In lieu of flowers donations to the Ralph DelMonico Music Scholarship Fund, 7310 W. North Ave., Unit 3A, Elmwood Park, IL 60707. For info: 773-889-1700

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Chicago Sun-Times on Oct. 2, 2012.

Memories and Condolences
for Arlette Contento

Not sure what to say?





Rose Incandela

February 2, 2013

We called to invite your mom to a get-together at our house in Wayne. When we checked to make sure her disconnected number was right we read the news of her death. We were shocked and saddened and wish we had known at the time. We all loved her very much. She and the entire Contento Family were always such fun. All of us have so many great memories from those days we were neighbors! We would love for you all to keep in touch. We are so sorry for your loss. Rose and the Incandela family, Cathy, Becky, Deb and Joe. We are all happy we had her in our life.

October 18, 2012

So sorry for your loss and for not being in town during this sad time. We were neighbors and delighted in Arlette. We will miss her. Sandra and David Sokol

Ed Ruff

October 18, 2012

Kirk, Mark, Jann, & Duane:
I just learned of your mother's passing from Joe Rooney. I am sorry I missed attending the Wake and Funeral. Both your mother and father were so welcoming to me. She was a great and kind lady with the best sense of humor(I am certain that is, at least partly, where you all got that gift). I will keep her and you in my prayers.
Please accept my condolences and deepest sympathy,
Ed Ruff

Bob Gatti

October 5, 2012

Adolescence..wow, do I miss my younger years.An awkaward time, especially the teen years.Enter the Contento family. My very close friend Jann had invited me over after school one afternoon on what I remember to be a beautiful fall day.The little sign on the lightpole in the driveway alerted me to the fact that I had arrived at CASA CONTENTO. Indeed, it was a very happy home.Arlette made it that way. When you walked through that little side door into the inviting little home with thick gold shag carpeting you felt like a king.The love and attention that Arlette showered on me keeps warm and safe inside to this day.Standing in that little kitchen and discussing life's events was a satisfying experience with " Mrs. C". Jann didn't even have to home for me to stop by and chat candidly with my second mom.
I'll always love you Arlette, as well as Mrs. Holden, Mrs. Rehak, and Mrs. Whelan, who also contibuted to my favorite memories as a kid.I appreciate my own mother so much more because of you.And to my friends, my mom will always be available to you too.Good bye Arlette.....C you in heaven.I'll miss you..........Bob Gatti

Jim Whelan

October 5, 2012

Kirk, Mark, Jann, & Duane:

Your mother (and your father) were like 2nd parents to me growing up. I spent a lot of time at your home, and can hear and see your Mom and Dad's faces, hear their voices and laughter, and how welcoming they always were. Your Mother was a pillar of female strength in a house full of male testosterone!! I can hear your Mom's cackling laughter and infectious voice. It was indeed a kinder, simpler time back then, and I cherish everything about knowing your family and growing up as neighbors and schoolmates. As you know, I also married into the family at one point to your cousin Gail here in Texas. I let Gail know yesterday of your Mother's passing after I found out.

I pray that the hurts and sorrow you have at this moment pass quickly, and that what's left are the fond memories and joy that she brought to you. Your Mom was a very special lady, but I know I don't need to tell you that. I am certain she touched everyone's lives that she ever came into contact with.

God Bless,

Jim Whelan

October 4, 2012

To Jann,Duane,Mark,Kirk and your families, my heartfelt sympahty. As a childhood friend, Mrs. C was our second mother. The news of her passing brought reflection of the many breakfasts at the house, the lectures, the scoldings and the opinionated monologues we would be "privileged" to hear. The memories are as vivid as yesterday and I will cherish them forever. Thank you, Arlette for having been a part of our young lives when we were most impressionable. You'll not be forgotten and the stories we tell will endure our lifetimes. You are loved by the "buddies" Jann grew up with.
Jeff Holden

Eleanor Todter

October 4, 2012

Arlette was one of a kind and always fun. Although I did see her much, she will always be remembered. So glad my niece married into such a great family as the Argenzios.

Jay Rehak

October 4, 2012

Mrs. Contento was a great lady. I enjoyed every minute of my time with her when I was young and growing up in Addison. Her sons and her husband were something of my role models growing up, but it was Mrs. Contento who helped me get over some of my shyness. She was an instrumental part of my childhood and I say a prayer of thanks for her kindness way back when.

Andrea & Peter Sellis

October 3, 2012

We were fortunate to know Arlette, through our daughter, Toni. We enjoyed many dinners together & holidays. She was like a second mother to our daughter, Toni & my husband & I were content knowing, they had each other. Ar was a joy to be around & we will definitely miss her.

Toni & Nick Vastis

October 3, 2012

Arlette was not just a neighbor, but a part of our family. We spent a lot of time together, laughing & enjoying her company. We got together each season, Mondays & Tuesdays, to watch Dancing with the Stars. I was fortunate enough to be with Ar, taking care of her, during her last days. I miss her & will always cherish my memories of her. She was the only person who made me laugh, as only she could. She didn't accept just anyone into her life, or into her home, so I was honored that Nick & I were a part of her life.

Brittani Bulanda

October 3, 2012

My condolences to Contento family.
I never got to meet her. But i am dear friend of Alyass Contento. She always talked about Arlette. I know she will be truely missed by all. My thoughts and prays are with them today as she goes to her final resting place.

Jennifer Finner

October 2, 2012

Arlette was one of a kind..I worked with her for many years and had so many laughs..?

Diana Bunch

October 2, 2012

I am going to miss Arlette so very much. Her fiesty attitude never failed to make me laugh. I love you Arlette.

Dave Kalsch

October 2, 2012

To the Contento family, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of Arlette. I loved the obit in the paper, it was very informative. My sincere condolences to the entire family.

Pat Trecka

October 2, 2012

My condolences to Arlette's family. I worked with Arlette at The Chicago Sun-Times. Arlette brought such joy and warmth when she visited our offices. She was a truly delightful woman--she was so much fun and I can only imagine the joy she brought to her family.

Showing 1 - 15 of 15 results

Make a Donation
in Arlette Contento's name

Memorial Events
for Arlette Contento

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Salerno's Galewood Chapels

1857 N. Harlem Ave., Elmwood Park, IL 60707

How to support Arlette's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Arlette Contento's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more