Rita J Casalina

Rita J Casalina, nee Webster age 90, of Darien, IL, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2025, surrounded by the love of her cherished family. She leaves behind her son, David Casalina and her daughter Janet Casalina, as well as her treasured grandchildren: Charlie (Michele) August, Joseph (Katie) August, and Kimberly (Mike) Zamparelli. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Julia, Belle, Mikey, Aubrey, Jackson, Olivia, and Ben. Additionally, her dear brother, Peter Webster (Jacqui), along with many cherished nieces and nephews, will continue to hold her memory close to their hearts. She was predeceased by her beloved sisters, Betty (Dave) and Margaret. Born on October 20, 1934, in Birmingham, England, Rita was the beloved daughter of Jack and Beatrice Webster. In 1956, seeking a new chapter in her life, she made the brave decision to move to the United States to marry, eventually settling in Downers Grove where she raised her two children. Rita often reflected on her time in England, recalling fond memories of her childhood growing up with her 3 siblings. She was a school aged child while WWII was going on. At times having to seek shelter from the bombings while walking to or from school. Eventually her and her older sister were evacuated to Wales for part of the war. While her family was considered poor, she always was grateful for what they had. These were lessons she passed down to her children. After she graduated high school at 15, she worked at the Cadbury chocolate factory before moving to the United States. Upon moving to the US, she took on the traditional role and stayed home to raise her family. Rita was very involved in activities with her children. She became a devoted Den mother for the Cub Scouts. Rita loved to sew and created countless costumes and clothing for her children and grandchildren. Many fondly remember her beautifully handcrafted Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls. She was also an avid gardener, growing her own vegetables which she canned for the winter. However, her talents didn't stop at sewing and gardening: Rita was a true jack of all trades—whether roofing, wallpapering or tiling the floors, there was nothing she couldn’t handle. Finding herself single, Rita went to bartending school in the late 1970’s. She landed a job at the Tiki Hut and was known for her warm and gregarious personality. Rita had an incredibly selfless spirit and was always ready to lend a helping hand, whether to a friend, family member, stranger or stray animal. She was always rooting for the underdog. She also had an immense love for board games and puzzles, often found meticulously working on a crossword puzzle or triumphing in games of Scrabble, much to the amusement of her family. In her later years, Rita helped to care for her Grandchildren which brought her much joy. Rita's spirit will forever be remembered and missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She touched the lives of many, and her legacy of love and kindness will undoubtedly continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends. A Memorial Service for Rita will be held on Saturday, March 8th 11 AM - 1 PM with a prayer service at 12 PM at McCauley-Sullivan Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium located on 530 W. Boughton Rd. Bolingbrook, IL 60440. A Memorial Luncheon will follow after the Memorial Service. The venue will be provided when available. Arrangements entrusted to McCauley-Sullivan Funeral Home & Crematorium.

Rita J Casalina

October 20, 1934 - February 15, 2025