Loretta M. "Lori" Drauden, age 73, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on Thursday, October 2, 2025.

Survived by her husband of 45 years, Robert Drauden; children, Peter (Christina) Drauden, and Julia (Timothy) O'Dell; grandchildren, Davis, Maxwell and Robin O'Dell, Alexander and Nicholas Drauden; sisters, Helen (Howard) Riley, and Margaret Cherry; sister-in-law, Dorothy (Greg) Chapman. Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends also survive.

Preceded in death by her parents, Warren and Nan Greenwood; young brother Warren Greenwood; brother-in-law, John Cherry; sister-in-law, Sandra (Robert) Richards, and her dear niece, Amanda VadeBonCoeur.

Lori was a proud graduate of Lemont High School, Class of 1969, where she was class president. Lori joined the Lemont VFW Ladies' Auxiliary at age 21 and was a lifelong member.

In 1975, Lori met the love of her life, Bob. Together, they shared many memorable adventures exploring the American Southwest. They married in 1980 and settled back in Illinois, sharing 45 years of a loving marriage.

Lori was a beloved mother to her son and daughter, and a cherished grandmother to her five grandsons. She treasured the time she spent with the boys playing make-believe games and reading stories.

Lori enjoyed sewing, crocheting, and embroidery, gifting many beautiful handmade treasures to friends and family. She was also a passionate Chicago Bears fan and loved placing her $1 bets on their victories. Lori also delighted in reading romance and mystery novels and tackling jigsaw puzzles — especially those featuring cats. Caring for her plants both in and out of the house also brought her much joy.

Lori was known for her warmth, welcoming spirit, and love for her family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Funeral services for Lori will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 1:00 pm at Farkas Funeral Home, 3201 W. Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL. Visitation will be held from 10:00am until time of services. Interment to follow at Mt Vernon Cemetery in Lemont, IL.