Adrianne Jean Ortiz, 73, of Blue Island, formerly of Fort Meyers, FL, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026.

She was born on April 1, 1953 in Chicago, IL to the late Edward and the late Margaret Thelen. An only child, Adrianne grew into a woman known for her strength and independence. She took pride in always looking her best and carried herself with a natural elegance that those around her admired.

She is the cherished mother of Erica T. Fetterman, with whom she shared an especially deep and meaningful bond. As both Adrianne and Erica were only children, their relationship grew into something truly special. Over the years, they took countless trips to Florida, where they stayed at the Matanzas Inn Bayside Resort in Fort Myers Beach. Together, they created unforgettable memories exploring local restaurants, sharing laughter, and watching the breathtaking sunsets along the shore.

Even in adulthood, Erica continued to experience her mother’s thoughtful and nurturing spirit in everyday ways. She would often come home to find a special package hanging on the screen door—a lovingly prepared gluten-free dinner from her mom, a simple but meaningful gesture. From her mother, Erica learned many of life’s important lessons, including how to cook with love and how to host a proper, memorable gathering—traditions she will carry forward.

Adrianne is the adoring grandmother of Sara Jean Dado, who truly became the center of Adrianne’s universe. Nothing brought her more joy than her time with Sara. She would often sing “You Are My Sunshine,” a song that perfectly captured the light Sara brought into her life.  Adrianne is also the proud great grandma to Baby Silas who is soon to be born.  Though they will not meet in person, Erica and Sara will lovingly share stories, traditions, and memories so that Baby Silas will grow up knowing Adrianne’s love.

For the last fifteen years, Adrianne shared her life with her loving partner, Gary Decker. Together, they built a relationship filled with devotion, laughter, and companionship. Adrianne was always by Gary’s side, whether at home or traveling wherever life took them—she was always ready for the next adventure with him.

Throughout her life, Adrianne worked as a secretary at Modern Drop Forge and in the mortgage industry with Washington Mutual and Wells Fargo. She approached her work with the same diligence and pride that she carried into every aspect of her life.

Adrianne treasured her friendships deeply and will be fondly remembered by her dear friends Patricia Cozzi, Barbara Radtke-Campbell, Carol Collins, Lori Thiery, and the late Jude Whipple. Their bonds were a meaningful and lasting part of her life.

There was no place Adrianne loved more than Fish Lake in the summertime. Surrounded by neighbors, friends, and family, she embraced lake life fully—soaking in the sunshine, laughter, and togetherness that made those moments unforgettable.

Adrianne expressed her love through cooking and hosting. She had a remarkable gift for bringing people together, effortlessly creating beautiful gatherings from start to finish, not leaving a detail left behind. Her parties were more than events—they were expressions of her love, generosity, creativity, and joy.  These are the memories that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her. 

A memorial visitation for Adrianne will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM, with a memorial service at 6:00 PM, at Krueger Funeral Home, 13050 Greenwood Avenue, Blue Island.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the family are greatly appreciated during this difficult time.