Barbara Jean Fenili

Barbara Jean Fenili, 84, of Mokena, Illinois, passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026. Barb, as friends and loved ones knew her, was born November 20, 1941, to Joseph and Margaret Blazik.

Barb was married to Dr. John P. Fenili. After a brief illness, she joined him in eternal rest almost exactly one year after John's passing. She reunited with her beloved husband, whom she loved and stood beside their whole life. Their love story began simply. They worked together on a float for a parade welcoming JFK during his presidential campaign when John first caught Barb's eye, and their wedding was held on a Thanksgiving weekend towards the end of John's college education. It was the beginning of a partnership that would last a lifetime.

Barb was the steady presence at the center of her family. For years, she hosted Thanksgiving celebrations and the annual family Christmas party, and everyone looked forward to gathering in their home - the tree up, a hot meal on the table, and Barb making sure no one was left out. She enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her four grandchildren. Barb also loved spending time outdoors tending to her beautiful flowers, crafting, where she was especially talented, and RV camping in Florida with her husband John.

Barb is survived by her children Kimberly (Kim) Fenili and Joseph (Joe) Fenili; her grandchildren Brooke, Jimmy, Aidan, and Jacob; her niece Jennifer (Mark) Martin (nee Garlitz); her great-nephew Ethan Martin; and her niece Melissa (Todd) Tietz (nee Soave). She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and her daughter-in-law, Debbie.

Visitation for Barb will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Vandenberg Funeral Home in Mokena 19604 S. Wolf Road Mokena, IL 60448

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic 19515 115th Ave Mokena, Il 60448. Interment will follow at St. Mary Nativity Cemetery in Crest Hill, IL.