Brenda A Pignataro

Brenda Ann Pignataro, 76, of River Grove, Illinois, passed on May 31, 2025, surrounded by the family she loved so fiercely throughout her life. Born in California and raised in Naperville and Melrose Park, Illinois, Brenda was a woman defined by devotion. While she held several jobs throughout her life, her greatest and most enduring role was the one she gave her heart to completely: being a mother, a grandmother, a wife, a sister, an aunt, and a constant presence in the lives of those she loved. She was the heartbeat of every home she touched. She cooked countless meals, folded endless loads of laundry, attended every birthday party, graduation, wedding, and family gathering—never for praise, but simply because she believed that love meant showing up. Her days were made of ordinary moments done with extraordinary care: a fresh cup of coffee in the morning, making sure the fridge was full, watching her favorite shows on DVR, calling to check in (and then calling again), and doing whatever she could to make someone else’s life just a little bit easier. In her later years, she softened—especially in her role as a grandmother. The fierce protector became the gentle nurturer, offering patience, smiles, and second helpings to the next generation. Though her body slowed down, her spirit never did. What frustrated her most wasn’t pain—it was not being able to be present in the day to day lives of those she loved most, with acts of love like cooking meals, going to significant events, or just being at home with family. Brenda is now reunited in peace with her beloved husband, Robert Pignataro, her daughter, Angie Tillander, and her brother, Ralph “Skip” Brown, all of whom she loved dearly and missed profoundly. We believe they are together again. She is survived by her children, Mario Pignataro, Nicole Lutzow, and Cassandra Pignataro; her grandchildren, Nick Klabunde, Emily Lutzow, Natalie Lutzow, Brandon Barber, Leah Paoli, and Holly Paoli; and her sisters, Donna Becerra and Laura Perry. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, all of whom were deeply beloved to her. Each of them carries forward her legacy of care, devotion, and deep love. She was extraordinary—not because of any public accolades or grand accomplishments, but because she took the ordinary work of family and did it with extra love. A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Schielka Funeral Home, 7710 W Addison St., Chicago, Illinois, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.. All who knew her are welcome to attend and honor her life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by doing what she did best: call someone you love, cook a warm meal, or simply show up for the people in your life.

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Brenda A Pignataro

April 12, 1949 - May 31, 2025