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Dennis M. Cristofaro, age 77, of Colon, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 21, 2025, surrounded by his family. Born on September 21, 1948 in Chicago to the late Mike and Helen (Pytko) Cristofaro, Dennis was a man deeply rooted in faith and community.
He graduated from Mendel Catholic High School with the Class of 1966 and married the love of his life, Barbara Cimbala, on January 1, 1967, at the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Chicago. They shared 57 years of marriage before Barbara’s passing on July 24, 2024.
Dennis proudly worked for the Chicago Transit Authority for more than 25 years, beginning as a mechanic and retiring as a Maintenance Manager. After retirement, he and Barbara moved to Colon in 2020.
As a deacon, Dennis served at St. Elizabeth Seton in Orland Hills, IL, and later at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Clare Catholic Church, and St. Barbara Catholic Church in Colon. He was a member of both the Diocese of Kalamazoo and the Diocese of Chicago, as well as the Knights of Columbus in Chicago. Over the years, he also served as a trustee for the Village of Orland Hills, a member of the Colon City Council, and on the Planning Commission and library board.
Dennis loved working with his hands—building, fixing, and creating in his pole barn. He was a devoted husband, a proud family man, and a grandfather who never missed an opportunity to support his grandchildren and great grandchildren in sports, theater, and every activity they pursued. He was always willing to lend his time to his church and community. Dennis enjoyed concerts, comedy shows, and was a proud boat captain who treasured his pontoon rides.
Dennis is survived by his children: Brian (Sharon) Cristofaro of Crown Point, IN; Denise (Bob) Keel of New Lenox, IL; Rosemary (Craig) Burklow of Peotone, IL; and Jennifer (Dan) Camacho of South Bend. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Jonquil Cristofaro, Mikaela Cristofaro, Samantha Keel, Tori Keel, Stephanie Lerner, Kele (Jim) Somerville, Jacob Furdek, Amanda Furdek, Gianna Camacho, Chase Camacho, Leryn Camacho, and Gage Camacho; great-grandchildren: Brantley, Colton, Jimmy, and Brooklyn; and siblings Jo (Jim) Chiappetta and Mario Cristofaro.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife, Barbara.
In keeping with Dennis’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements by Schipper Funeral Home.
