Carol Mae Widlowski

We mourn the loss of Carol Mae Widlowski, a loving wife, mother and grandmother, who died peacefully July 24, 2025. She was a lifelong resident of Joliet and member of St. Mary Nativity Catholic Church. Carol was 88.

For 65 years she was the loving wife of Carl Widlowski, who survives her. They met at ComEd when they both worked there. She also leaves behind her children—Tom, Laura and Jim. She was Grandma to Daniel (Lauren), Lauren (Nick Palermo), Nick, Madeleine and Mitchell; and great-grandmother to Wilder.

We treasure so many memories. Dad will miss Mom’s companionship, joy, good humor and the endless support she provided over their lifetime together. We all will miss her cooking and baking. “Her lasagna was terrific,” Dad said. She was an all-around excellent cook and baker. We still talk about her peanut brittle and a pineapple upside-down cake that left lasting memories.

Carol loved to pamper the wide variety of flowers in her garden. For many years she and Dad took bus trips all over the country and spent many vacations in Texas. Her children are so grateful for all the time, attention and lessons shared with us. We remember the countless times she attended our sporting events and school functions.

Through the years she was very active in St. Mary Nativity organizations and projects. It was in her heart to give and share. In 2002, Carol was named Woman of the Year by the Council of Catholic Women for her many volunteer efforts.

Carol was born Aug. 21, 1936, to George and Evelynn (nee Delost) Glad. She is survived by her beloved sisters—Norma (Don) Strahanoski and Doris (Mike) Warren—and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers and sisters-in-law, George (Rose Ann) Glad and Bill (Irene) Glad; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Evelyn (John) Gornick and Marie (Tom) Fabek.

“I picture her being embraced by Jesus, and then my mom and dad hugged and welcomed her—with more hugging from Aunt Marie, Aunt Evie, Uncle George and Uncle Bill. A happy Glad reunion,” said Doris, the youngest of “the Glad girls.”

Many thanks to Alicia and Daja at Lightways Hospice for their care and compassion and to the memory care staffs at Alden and Willow Falls. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations be made to St. Mary Nativity, Lightways Hospice or the Alzheimer’s Association.

A celebration of life visitation will be held Tuesday, July 29, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd., Joliet, IL 60435. Visitation will continue at Tezak’s on Wednesday, July 30, at 9 a.m. for closing prayers before procession to Saint Mary Nativity, 706 N. Broadway St., Joliet, for a funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will follow at Saint Mary Nativity Cemetery, 601 Caton Farm Rd., Crest Hill.