Audrey Helen (Novak) Ungaretti

Audrey Helen Ungaretti, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and devoted member of her community, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, at the age of 83. She was cared for with grace and tenderness at Belmont Village Assisted Living under the compassionate guidance of hospice as she bravely faced vascular dementia. Audrey lived a life devoted to family, friendship, and quiet acts of love.

Born in Chicago, IL in 1942 to Joe and Helen Novak, Audrey was one of two children and is survived by her older sister, Shirley. She married Richard Ungaretti in the 1960’s and together they were blessed with two children.

Audrey earned her Bachelor of Arts from DePaul College. Early in her career, she worked as a seamstress, supporting her family by crafting custom men’s ties while her husband pursued his education. She later became a teacher in several Chicago grammar schools, sharing her intelligence and care with her students. After her children were grown, Audrey brought her warmth and work ethic to retail roles at Belk, Carson’s, and Majamas, where she became known for her friendly spirit and personal touch.

Audrey was a model of humility and kindness. She lovingly referred to her son as “Brother Paul,” never seeking recognition or praise. Yet today, her children honor the selflessness, strength, and grace she lived by. She was always present with a smile—her kindness unmistakable and deeply felt by everyone in her presence.

She was a devoted parishioner of St. Edmund Church in Oak Park and was beloved across the congregation for her signature deviled eggs. As a mother, she supported her children in every possible way. As a grandmother, she created a home filled with joy, hosting cozy sleepovers and showering her grandchildren with love. She also graciously cared for her aging parents with patience and devotion.

Wherever life took her, Audrey formed meaningful, lasting connections. She offered compassion freely and tended to others with unwavering generosity. In her empty-nest years, she continued to expand her circle—befriending and, in some cases, “adopting” those in need of care and kindness. Even in her final years in assisted living, she built deep friendships with residents and staff alike, who often shared how honored they felt to know her.

Audrey found joy in the creative and the simple. She was an avid oil painter whose subjects ranged from serene waterscapes to imagined portraits and bird-filled skies. She loved tropical vacations, especially her cherished trips to Hawaii with her cousin Jerry and his wife, Janet. She also enjoyed golf, particularly with her girlfriends on trips to northern Wisconsin. A gifted cook, Audrey ensured her family was always nourished with home-cooked meals. Later in life, she delighted friends and family with handmade crescent moon cookies, meatballs, or pizzelles—lovingly prepared and generously shared.

Audrey is lovingly remembered by her children, Joy and Paul (Carol), and her grandchildren: JP, Natalie, Sarah, and Ella. She is preceded in death by two grandsons, Collin and Josh, who now welcome her with open arms.

Her legacy—of faith, compassion, wisdom, and joyful selflessness—will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her memory lives on in every warm meal shared, every kind gesture extended, and every life she touched with love.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Hospice Foundation—one of the organization they support compassionately cared for Audrey during her final days.

Friends and family are invited to a Memorial Service on Saturday, August 9th at 1:00 PM at St. Edmund Church (188 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park) followed by a Celebration of Life luncheon at Rustico (155 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park) starting at 2:00pm.

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