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Judith Caruso Obituary

Caruso, Judith Ann age 64, born November 23, 1944 to the late Joseph and Sophie Caruso (nee Alleva), loving partner of Victoria Alioto, cherished sister of Joseph (Kay) and Janice Caruso, dear aunt of Joseph K. (Cynthia) and John Caruso, devoted niece of Anne Salvitti (nee Alleva), cheerful and supportive Jude to many cousins and life long friends. Raised in Oak Park, IL, Judy attended Siena H.S. After graduating from George Williams College, Judy taught physical education in the Chicago Public School system for 34 years, beginning at Austin H.S. and continuing on to Steinmetz and Wendell Phillips H.S. where she remained for 21 years sharing a wealth of talent and time with her students. Tireless, unafraid, street smart and a beacon of social justice, Judy lived life to the fullest and encouraged all in her path to follow their dreams. Memorial service Wednesday, May 13. Family receiving 6 p.m., Mass 7 p.m. at Old St. Patrick's Church, corner of Adams and DesPlaines in Chicago. Instead of flowers, please consider a contribution to: Judith Caruso Scholarship/Children First Fund 125 S. Clark St. 11th Floor, Chicago, IL 60603

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Published by Chicago Sun-Times from May 4 to May 10, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Judith Caruso

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Renee Smith-Quinn

May 6, 2021

Jude is gone from us physically, but never spiritually. I have so many fond memories of my dear friend. She left River Forest and ended up on the North side. We had so much fun at all of her parties and outings we shared. Jude loved her family and friends with a fierceness that can't be matched. I love you, my friend and I always will! Thank you, Family, for allowing me this opportunity to share my thoughts.

Eva Garcia

May 23, 2019

Judy,
10 Years have gone by. Since your passing my Mami and my brother Junior are dancing in the heavens. They loved you very much. You were so special and loving. xxx

Patricia Boothe

April 16, 2016

Deepest condolences to the family....used to play basketball with Jude at Shabbona Park many years ago......so sad to hear this so many years later.....she was unforgettable.....,God bless you Jude ...rest gently.....

Elizabeth Hankinson

April 18, 2010

18 April 2010
Friends and Family of Judy,
I was so very saddened to recently learn that Judy died. We met at GWC and she was an inspiration if not a force always admired. Through her I met many of you and enjoyed your always lively conversations and sometimes adventures. I like to think Judy gave me a little metaphorical starch to my backbone. Namaste.

William V. Smolik

May 14, 2009

Dear Caruso Family,

You are in my thoughts and prayers. May you be comforted by fond memories of Judy. You have all of my love and support now and always.

Love,
Bill

Charlene Caruso-Bartels

May 13, 2009

Deae Vicki and Caruso Family,
It's been hard to find words that express my memories of Jude because she was so many things to me. I met her in the late 1980's through Real Estate and because we shared the same last name we became "fast friends". We spent the next 20+ years trying to find a family connection...we decided just to be cousins!
I loved so many things about her...her independence, her strong loyalties, her dedication and commitment to whatever "cause" was hers at the moment! Above all I enjoyed our friendship, her contagious laugh and at the end...her courage! I love her and miss her but know she's well and joyful and allready organizing a "Caruso" reunion in heaven!

May 11, 2009

My Dearest Friend,
There are certain kinds of people who don't wait until they are asked, but somehow can anticipate a need,you were one of them girlfriend.
You were thoughtful, sharing, and who will give students support and offer help to make their dreams comes true. How lucky the students were at Phillips to have such a caring person with a rare and special talent for making their and our lives brighter day by day.
For the many events and trips we shared, the Las Vegas
trip, the 7-nights Southern Carribbean Cruise, the first day at the White Sox Park, the Day at the Races, half of them were organized by guess who? Oh, by the way, you were the one who brought your computer with you to Las Vegas to catch up on some work. Hoe the rest of us laugh at you. We had to remind you the reason why we were there. Fun, fun, fun. No work, no sleep, only laughter, drinks, gambling, very little food, did I mention drinks? No Work, No Sleep, just fun. And, that's why I hid your computer. Now you know.
You will always be loved because you were the the kind of person who touched the lives and hearts and made the world smile.
You will always be loved..........because you were you.

Drew Kyles, South Holland, Illinois

May 11, 2009

Dearest Vickie, Janice, Joe, Family & Friends
My time with Jude was very short but very fulfilling. I received a gift from Jude that I will Charish my lifetime. I was fortunate to meet her through a loving friend-Carm. The caring, loving, and understanding traits she pocessed are nothing I need to explain. Her family and friends have all been able to experience them with Jude. I feel that there was a reason I was to meet this GREAT WOMEN and know that her love will live in me always. GOD must need her Expertise and help. It is the only reason she has been taken from us so soon. Jude you keep up the great work in your New Life.
Love and Prayers
Sandy Peterson

Caron O'Brien

May 11, 2009

Family and Friends,
Jude and I met at Siena H,S then and later she always made me laugh. She was bless with many good friends, "What a character". Character is better then wealth. She will never be forgotten.
Caron OB O'Brien Siena 1965.

Dee Caputo

May 10, 2009

Dear Vicki, Joe, Jan, Kay and all of Judy's dear, loving and loyal friends;

I met Judy less then a year ago when I met Vicki for the 1st time.

What I have learned more about Judy through Vicki, her family and friends and what they have shared.

I am at a loss of words to describe Judy. Many will remember her as a friendly and concerned individual. I feel she someone who lived up to the standards that God demands from us all.

Her death reminds us that life is so very short and that only those are remembered who have lived it to the fullest and given back a lot in return. Sure she is not around us but every time we will meet someone motivated as her we will recall her name with fondness.

Her physical presence has been taken away from us. But I believe that her memories will suffice. I simply wish that if she were to come back to us in this world may she live the same life that she did and leave many more lives blessed and touched by what she brought with her.

With Love,

Renee Smith-Quinn

May 10, 2009

Family and friends of our girl, Judy. I will continue to think of Judy as the friend who always wore a smile. Regardless of what she experienced, her glass was forever half-full! Judy and I partied through the years, most often with other Phillipsites, but sometimes alone. We spent a glorious week in Sanibel with her Cousin Carmen. That was one of the best vacations of my life! Jude had a strong faith and practiced it in a variety of ways. She inspired so many of us with her kindness and her fierceness, if someone dared to take advantage of another!
Thank you to the many friends and family who took care of her in style, up to the very last. You know what it meant to her because I can bet that she told you. In the past, she's shared how much you all meant to her.
Thank you Judy, for the life, laughter, and friendship you shared with the rest of us. We are so much better for having had you in our lives. The scholorship for Phillips' students is just a small sample of her generousity. That big, beautiful grin and the love she shared is her legacy to us all.
Good-bye for now, but never forgotten..
Love you also,
Renee Smith-Quinn

Kathy Gilbert

May 9, 2009

Dear Judy,Sorry to hear of your passing.By now you are blowing your whistle and organizing the games in Heaven.
God bless & and keep you under his wing.

Eva Garcia

May 9, 2009

Judy, Jesus said, "Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in Heaven"
Thank you for sharing your wonderful joyfilled laughter with my family and I.

John Erickson

May 8, 2009

I was sad to hear of the passing of Judy last week. I know she fought a full 15 round fight. Good thing she had a lot of family and friends in her corner. I'm thinking of you Jan, Joe, Kay, and family. God Bless You All

sandy wilson

May 7, 2009

Judy as long as I live I will never forget our trip to Savannah with Teri. Or our trip to the boat in Elgin with Angie on her birthday. You had a kindness about you that was moving. I very much admired you. Vickie I love you like a sister and will be up to Fox Lake to see you all soon

Rae & Marie

May 7, 2009

Dear Judy,

You were so strong and so brave.You decided to fight and that you did. You fought hard for a long time but continued to always have that beautiful smile on your face
We have many fond memories that will always be with us.

Carmen Caruso

May 7, 2009

Dearest Judy,
I have always been so fond of you and your humor. I used to love to come out and watch you play baseball. I am so happy that you met me in the Miami airport when I was returning from chicago.That was the last time I saw you. You brought me up to date on the family.Since I have heard of your passing, I have been saying Mass for you and remembering you daily when I say my breviary.
Your Cousin,
Carmen

May 7, 2009

I remember Judy's parents and siblings quite well. She came from a wonderful family (Sophie's antics made us laugh). I was especially fond of her sister Janice.

I have so many memories of Judy from Siena High School. She was a sweet and kind person, very easy-going. That gal was a tremendous athlete. She was our very own Michael Jordan on the basketball court... could jump higher than the rest and kind of hung up there in a levitation.

I am bereft for myself and for her family and friends. In my mind, she will always be eternally sixteen years old... rosy-cheeked and fresh, vital and strong. My heart goes out to all of you who grieve. A lovely person has passed from our midst.

Vicki Ruzicka

Jen, Yvette, Juan & Lexi

May 6, 2009

Our hearts hurt so much. Judy was so so so much fun. We were honored and privileged to hang with her both in Chicago and Florida boy did we have good times. She loved our kids and was really good with them. Kept them in line and always made us laugh. They were her "chooches" lol actually her "little babies". Judy you will be deeply missed but I know we will meet again and have a blast! Now we will have another angel to watch over us.

Pat Murdock

May 6, 2009

It's been a long time - about 30 years ago at your "Hideaway" in Delavan. We had some great times during college,especially the time we camped on Lake Marie in Antioch - my home today. Your were fun, devoted to your family & friends but most of all "genuine".
I look back and appreciate the good times that will stay with me forever.
My condolences to your family and to the friends who loved, and will continue to love you so deeply.

Laurie Donahue

May 6, 2009

Dear Jan,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. Judy was so special - a one of a kind great person who will be missed by a multitude of friends and family. My prayers and thoughts go out to you and the family during this time of sorrow.

Tony & Cristy Cambio

May 5, 2009

We are sad to hear of your loss, our deepest sympathy.

Joanie Nellis

May 5, 2009

Dearest Joe, Kay, & Vikie,
I am so saddened by Judy's passing. I am sure that the color and texture that she wove into the fabric of your lives will become a song that you will sing forever. Please know that all of you are in my prayers.
As Sam and The Buzzard always said:
"Don't Forget" (I Love You)

Grant Jackson

May 5, 2009

Thanks for the memories, My dear friend. I will see you again at fiddlers green.

Micki Endliss

May 5, 2009

It has been almost 30 years since Judy and I were together, but the news of her passing brings back memories of great times with friends and family (both hers and mine) like it was yesterday. My deepest condolences to Janice and Joe. Jude, I hope you are at peace.

Paul & JoAnn Carter

May 5, 2009

Judy was a great friend and co-worker. We will miss her spirit and her laughter.

M.Marva Allison

May 5, 2009

May the loving and kind heart memories of Judith bring all comfort.May all the power of the heart and soul bring to family and friends my deepest sympathy.Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.Abindant blessings and love.

Jo Ann Ballard

May 5, 2009

An exceptional woman who lived an exceptional life, and touched so many.

Remembering her and the family with loving prayers.

Nancy Anderson

May 5, 2009

Dearest Vicki,
My deepest sympathy. I'm so sorry for your loss. Please know that you're in my thoughts & prayers.
Love you,
Nancy

Tom Bacino

May 4, 2009

Judy
we meet you thru
Ann and we never had any bad times. you surely will be miss.
Marie & Tom Bacino

Mary Ann Caruso

May 4, 2009

Judy,
I will never forget the times around my Mom's passing, that you and Janice would take me out and show me around town. Those are some of my most vivid, and favorite family memories. Buckingham Fountain, Petersen's Ice Cream, and when I was lucky a trip to Lake Delavan. I doubt you'll remember but you and Jan took me to see Midnight Cowboy when I was under age. I thought that was the coolest!

Later you came back into my life just as I was going through one of those "life changing" seasons. We weren't always close, but somehow you were there for me at just the right times. Thank you so much.

Give our parents a kiss for me, and an espicially long hug to your Mom. She was the BEST! I loved her a great deal and think of her often. You shared many of Aunt Soph's ways. Her strenght, poise, caring, and love of life.

Make sure to look up your Uncle George. He was proud of all three of you. I remember him telling his friends of all your sucesses. When I was in high school he would often tell me that I would do well if I would "try and be like Judy and Janice". Jude, I'll tell you a secret if you promise not to tell Joe and Jan.... I think you might have been his favorite. Maybe it was the George Williams, YMCA thing....I'm not sure.

You and your family touched my life in many ways. Much more I think than you ever realized.

Much love, & God Bless you.

Your (long winded)cousin,
Mary Ann Caruso

Judy Koenig

May 4, 2009

Judy, you now have "The crown of Life" that God has promised to His faithful. You'll always be in my heart. So much we shared. Together we learned so much about life. I'll always love you Judy

Linda Palm

May 4, 2009

Vicki, Janice, Joe and Family,
My heart goes out to you. I hope that you find comfort and peace in the love and support of your family and friends.

And, Jude, you are a shining example of a strong woman who followed her dreams. I'll take that one to heart. With love,

Ann Curriere

May 4, 2009

Jude, You will always be one of my best friends. I will miss you and keep you in my prayers. I know you are at peace and hope you will put in a good word for me with "THE BIG GUY".

julia ustich

May 4, 2009

Jude
I first met you at Wendell Phillips H.S. Academy. I substituted for you. From that I learned that there is no substitute for you. You smiled and laughed when you came back. I then taught side by side with you at the Academy, and you taught me to accept nothing less, but excellence. Give my regards to all our friends you will encounter in God's home. Aloha Oe my dear friend.

Pat Denning-Golden

May 4, 2009

Judy, I love you and I will continue to carry in my heart the memories of all those years we shared at Phillips and the pizzas we had at Giordano's. You fought the good fight, Jude. Remember me to God and my parents and Mrs. Curry. God Bless You, Judy; I will think of you with love often. Pray for me.

Laurie Geschrey

May 4, 2009

Vicki,
I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that Katherine and I love you, and are here for you, and that you are in our prayers.
Blessings,
Laurie & Katherine

Debbie McDonough

May 4, 2009

Although I only knew Jude since she moved to South Florida, she was an inspiration & delight to be around. We regularly shared Sundays at the beach together with friends & called it going to Church @the beach. We were thankful to be there with good friends, good food & good times. She was the life of a party as well as a good social director. Heaven gained another angel.

Teri Renella

May 4, 2009

Judy, I will always remember all the fun times we've shared throught the years. I know you are up there with the rest of them. Until we meet again my friend, God bless you & keep you with him. Say hi for me to all those I miss & love.

Ginger Rouse

May 4, 2009

Now your laughter will bring smiles in heaven, and we will remember you here.

Cabo 2008

Carol Guzik

May 4, 2009

JUDY YOU WERE SUCH A HUGE PART OF OUR FAMILY FOR SUCH A SHORT TIME. YOU CONSIDERED US YOUR FLORIDA FAMILY AND OUR FAMILY JUST LOVED HAVING YOU AROUND. IT WASN'T A PARTY WITHOUT YOU. YOU WILL BE SO MISSED.

ENJOY THE BIG PARTY IN THE SKY.

CAROL

Lynn Beutel Verburg

May 4, 2009

Janice and family,
I was so sorry to read about the passing of your sister. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers.

OUR JUDE

Patricia Tomaso

May 4, 2009

JUDY, MY DEAR FRIEND, I WILL MISS YOU SO MUCH.
THANKS FOR SHOWING ME WHAT REAL COURAGE LOOKS LIKE.
HAPPY TRAVELS OVER THE UNIVERSE, PATRICIA

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