Dolores J. "Dorie" Forristal

Dolores J “Dorie” Forristal

Age 89 of Joliet, passed away peacefully in her home on Sunday, February 4, 2024 surrounded and cared for by her loving family in her final hours.

Born July 10, 1934 in Joliet, Dorie was a daughter of John and Mary (Née Hudak) Vanisko. She was raised in the Joliet area and was a graduate of SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Grade School (1948) and Providence Catholic High School, class of 1952.

Dorie married William V. Forristal on June 2, 1956 in SS Cyril & Methodius Church and together they raised three children.

She was a member of the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, and volunteered at Presence St. Joseph Medical Center for over 19 years and made many long lasting friendships.

Dorie was a devout Catholic and had a great devotion to the Blessed Mother. She always encouraged only the best for all her children and grandchildren. She was a strong woman with a great sense of moral character and compassion and encouraged her children to follow their passions and be happy. The family was truly blessed with a final Christmas Day gathering together with Dorie, as a lasting memory to share.

On Sunday morning, she and her son watched and prayed during the Mass via television and at the conclusion Dorie stated, “What a wonderful last memory.”

Dorie was extremely proud of her Slovak heritage and passed history and recipes down to her family.

Survivors include her devoted and dedicated children, David A. Forristal, Paul T. (Leah) Forristal and Karen M. (Sammy) McClure; grandchildren, Justin (Shannon) Forristal, Jillian Ferry, Jeffrey (Amanda) Forristal, Benjamin Forristal, Kristina Diaz, Melissa (Alan) Johnson, Matthew Diaz; nine great-grandchildren; brother, Edward (Shirley) Vanisko, sister-in-law, Alice (late John) Vanisko, numerous brother and sisters-in-law and cousins. Dorie was preceded in death by her loving husband of 47 years, William V. Forristal; parents, John and Mary Vanisko; and siblings, Helen (Herman) Kaynish, John Vanisko and Marian (Edward) Mahalik.                                                                             

A memorial visitation will be held on Monday, February 12, 2024 at the Cathedral of St. Raymond Nonnatus, 604 N. Raynor Avenue, Joliet at 9:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10:00 a.m. Rev. Michael Groth officiating.

 Dorie will be laid to rest beside her husband in Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, 20953 W. Hoff Road, Elwood, IL  

The family wishes to extend their thanks to the staff of DaVita Sun Health Dialysis, Lightways Hospice and the numerous doctors and nurses who assisted and participated in Dorie’s care.

In lieu of flowers, Dorie requested that mass intentions be offered in her memory or to Lightways Hospice and Serious Illness Care: https://lightways.org . 

Relatives and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book by logging onto: www.PleseFuneralservices.com.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the genuine care and direction of Kenneth A. Plese, in Joliet, IL 815-735-2125.