Theresa Alesandrini

Theresa was born on October 14, 1922, in Pekin, IL, the daughter of John and Elena Moreschi Blum.  She married Carlo Alesandrini on December 26, 1942, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Pekin.  He preceded her in death as did her parents; two brothers (and their spouses) - Clem (Bertha) Blum and Peter (Ruth) Blum; one sister (and her spouse) - Jenny Blum (Joseph) Barresi.

She is survived by her son, Carlo (Barbara) Alesandrini, Jr., Ph.D.; three daughters - Kathryn Alesandrini (Melvin) Eddy, Ph.D., Jody (Bill) Galbraith, Janelle Alesandrini; three grandchildren – Stian, Nicola (Mike), and Alexander; two great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

A 1940 graduate of Pekin Community High School, Theresa subsequently graduated from cosmetology school, obtained her State of Illinois beautician’s license and worked full-time until she later devoted time to her husband's business. 

As a long-time member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Theresa was a lector and a member of the choir, the Council of Catholic Women, and the Mission Society.  She was also a very active member of University of Illinois Extension in Tazewell County, both in Home Community Education (HCE), 66 years and as a 4-H leader, 13 years.  She also volunteered as a Girl Scout leader, a band parent volunteer, a Boy Scout volunteer and was a long-time member of Great Decisions (a group discussion program on world affairs). 

Theresa was an avid walker and outdoor enthusiast.  She and her husband belonged to the Peoria Hiking Club for many years and were founding members of the Celestial City Camping Club.  She enjoyed cooking - especially with fresh produce from the garden, was enthusiastic about good nutrition and enjoyed reading, listening to music and playing cards.  She especially enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After she was widowed, she worked as the Activity Director at the UAW Senior Citizens Center for 22 years, retiring at age 85.  She loved her job, treasured the people with whom she worked, and through her work, was an inspirational role model for others on aging gracefully.

Visitation will be held at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin, on Sunday, March 17, 2013, from 1 to 3 p.m.; Rosary service will begin at 12:30 p.m.  Mass will be at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Pekin, on Monday, March 18th at 10 a.m.; Father Jim Pankiewicz will officiate.  Cremation will be accorded.  Private burial will be in Lakeside Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Church, 303 S. Seventh Street, Pekin, IL 61554 and designated for the "stair fund" (a project to build new stairs to the choir loft in the church) or to U of I Extension – Tazewell County, 1505 Valle Vista, Pekin, IL 61554.