Daleiden Mortuary

10/15/2026

Norbert Szudarski

Norbert Szudarski, 91, of Aurora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at Avantara Aurora. He was born July 1, 1935 in Chicago, Illinois. He was united in marriage to Sharon Simmons August 3, 1963, at St Leonard Church in Berwyn, Illinois.

Norbert was a devoted Catholic who was blessed to serve as a deacon at St. Joseph Church in Aurora for 24 years. He was also a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, where he shared in the fellowship and service of his faith community.

Music was another part of Norbert’s life, as he was a member of the Chicago Chamber of Commerce Glee Club for many years during the late 1950s and early 1960s. He also enjoyed boating and was a member of the United States Power Squadron, where he dedicated many years to teaching safe boating classes and helping others enjoy the water safely.

In his youth, Norbert worked as a dairy farmer on his family’s farm in Monee, Illinois, where he learned the value of hard work. He later built a successful career with Hardware Mutual Insurance Company, which later became Sentry Insurance. Through hard work and dedication, he advanced from the mail room to become one of the company’s top salesmen before retiring. His career reflected his determination, commitment, and strong work ethic.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-three years Sharon (Simmons) Szudarski; five children, Bryant Szudarski, Adelle Szudarski, Steven (Cathy) Szudarski, Adrienne (Eric) Co**ha, Terry (Loan) Szudarski; five grandchildren, Nicholas Szudarski, Ethan Szudarski, Megan Szudarski, Austin Co**ha, Aidan Co**ha; two brothers, Arnold (Julie) Szudarski, Melvin (Romaine) Szudarski; his sister, Alice LaBrec; many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Albina (Lubawy) Szudarski; two sons, Michael Szudarski in infancy, and David Szudarski; his daughter-in-law, Diane Szudarski.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM with a Liturgical Wake Service at 4:00 PM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street Aurora, IL 60506, 630-631-5500.

Funeral service will be held Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 9:30 AM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY to St. Rita of Cascia Church at 10:00 AM; Fr. Jerome Leake will officiate with interment at Resurrection Cemetery in Justice, Illinois.

Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com to leave condolences for Norbert’s family or sign the guest book.

Arrangements entrusted to Daleiden Mortuary, Aurora, Illinois – providing funeral and cremation services to Aurora, Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Batavia, Yorkville and surrounding communities.

View Norbert Szudarski's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/15/2026

Funeral Term Explained: What Is a Funeral Service Followed by Cremation?
For families who appreciate the traditions of a full funeral service but prefer cremation for final disposition, a funeral service followed by cremation offers the best of both worlds.
💠 So, what does this option include?
Some families choose to have their loved one present in a casket for a visitation and funeral service, just as they would with a traditional burial. Following the service, the cremation takes place.
This approach allows families to:
Hold a visitation for friends and relatives to gather, share memories, and offer support
Have a full funeral service at a church, funeral home, or another meaningful location
Choose cremation afterward, providing flexibility in how the cremated remains are memorialized, kept, or scattered
💠 Why families choose this option
A funeral service followed by cremation provides the opportunity for a traditional farewell, offering structure, comfort, and closure, while still honoring the family’s preference for cremation.
If you have questions about how this service works or how it can be personalized, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

10/09/2026

Funeral Term Explained: What Is a Traditional Funeral Service?
When families think of a familiar and structured way to honor a loved one, they often choose a traditional funeral service. This option brings together the elements many people recognize and find comforting during a time of loss.
💠 So, what is a traditional funeral service?
A traditional funeral typically includes three main components:
Visitation
A scheduled time for family and friends to gather, offer condolences, and spend time with the family.
Service or Gathering
Usually held at a church or funeral home, this service may include readings, music, prayers, eulogies, or other meaningful elements chosen by the family.
Burial at a Cemetery
Following the service, the family proceeds to the cemetery for the burial.
The casket is present throughout the service, offering an opportunity for guests to pay their final respects.
💠 Why families choose a traditional service
A traditional funeral provides a structured, familiar, and supportive environment where loved ones can come together, reflect, and say goodbye. It offers space for ceremony, community, and shared healing.
If you have questions about what’s included in a traditional funeral or how to personalize one, our team is always here to help.

10/09/2026

Michael J. Finn

Michael J. Finn, 90, of Aurora, Illinois passed away peacefully on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Edward Hospital in Naperville.

Michael was born on October 24, 1935, in Dublin, Ireland. He was educated by the Christian Brothers. He left Ireland at the age of 18 after the loss of both his parents. After a brief stay in London, Michael set sail to Australia where he worked his way from Perth to Sydney on the railroad.

Michael became one of the first lay missionaries to Papua New Guinea where he worked with the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (“MSC”). Michael helped to oversee banana plantations in New Guinea for the MSCs. He took initial vows as a brother during this time and only left service after learning he would not be able to return to missionary work due to health concerns after surviving a bout of malaria.

After leaving the MSCs main campus in Geneva, Michael settled in Aurora. While he primarily worked for Caterpillar, he also worked at various times for Aurora Central Catholic High School, Archbishop Romero/St. Nicholaus, and the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”), until his retirement.

Michael was the beloved husband of the late Mary C. (Brungart) Finn, with whom he shared forty-four beautiful years of marriage. He was a devoted husband and loving father who treasured his family and the many friendships that he formed throughout his life.

Michael was a member of Holy Angels Catholic Church. He belonged to the Knights of Columbus and was a one-time member of the Moose Lodge. In addition, he was involved in several social clubs throughout Aurora and at one time served as the President of the Irish Club. He loved to travel and attend theater productions with his family and friends. He will be remembered for his unique sense of humor, tall tales, love of Notre Dame, and whimsical stubbornness.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Kathleen Finn, as well as treasured friends, many of whom he considered family.

Michael was preceded in death by his wife, Mary; both his parents, Michael & Annie (Geraghty) Finn, and his siblings, Patricia Finn, James Finn, and Eileen (Eamonn) McMahon.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 1:30 PM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street Aurora, IL 60506, 630-631-5500.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 1:30 PM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY to Holy Angels Church at 2:00 PM; Fr. Jerome Leake will officiate with interment at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to Little Sisters of the Poor in Palatine, Illinois.

Arrangements entrusted to Daleiden Mortuary, Aurora, Illinois – providing funeral and cremation services to Aurora, Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Batavia, Yorkville and surrounding communities.

View Michael J. Finn's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/09/2026

Audrey M. Wright

Audrey M. Wright, 91, formerly of Aurora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026 with her loving family by her side. She was born March 30,1935 in Joliet, Illinois, the cherished daughter of Michael and Stephanie (Bajt) Getson.

Audrey was united in marriage to Rodney Wright on December 1, 1956. The two met at a dance, and dancing remained a special part of their lives throughout their marriage. They shared a love of music and dancing and could often be found dancing together, a testament to the joy and love they shared throughout their many years together.

Audrey was employed by Illinois Bell, Sears, and Kane County Teachers Credit Union, where she retired after 25 years of dedicated service. In retirement, Audrey enjoyed relaxing, traveling, and spending time with her grandchildren alongside Rodney.

Audrey enjoyed cooking and took great pride in preparing meals for her family each night. She was especially known for her delicious lasagna, chicken with homemade noodles, and homemade pizza, a Saturday night tradition her family looked forward to every week. Through her cooking, Audrey shared her love with those around her and created many cherished memories around the family table. She also enjoyed sewing and crocheting, she made beautiful afghans that she loved giving away as gifts.

She is survived by her five children, Rodney Jr. (Susan), Steven, Gary (Linda), Denise, and Jeffrey. Five grandchildren, Rodney III (Joy), Carrie (Brian), Christopher (Nicole), Anthony, Alexandra (C.J.). Eight great grandchildren, Maddox, Ellie, Avery, Harper, Abigail, Jack, Matteo, and Cora.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Rodney Wright, Sr.; her brother, Gene Getson; and her grandson, Austin.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, from 10:00 AM until 11:30 AM at THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street Aurora, IL 60506, 630-631-5500.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 11:30 AM from THE DALEIDEN MORTUARY to Holy Angels Church at 12:00 PM; Fr. Michael Lavan will officiate.

Interment will be held Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Resurrection Cemetery in Romeoville, 200 W Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL 60446.

Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com to leave condolences for Audrey’s family or sign the guest book.

Arrangements entrusted to Daleiden Mortuary, Aurora, Illinois – providing funeral and cremation services to Aurora, Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Batavia, Yorkville and surrounding communities.

View Audrey M. Wright's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/08/2026

Michael J. Finn

View Michael J. Finn's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/08/2026

Come enjoy a Halloween pancake breakfast hosted by the Aurora Lions Club! We have 5 FREE tickets available to be picked up at Daleiden Mortuary. All you have to do is call, and they're yours!

10/07/2026

10/07/2026

Eric G. Hardekopf

Eric G. Hardekopf, 75, of Aurora, Illinois passed away Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. He was born on April 14, 1951, in Aurora, Illinois.

Eric was a long-time resident of Aurora and the proud owner, alongside his beloved wife, of the Flower Basket in Aurora. He was an avid fan of the Beatles and enjoyed spending time working on race cars.

Eric was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. His memory will live on in the hearts of everyone he touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife of fifty-three years, Colleen (Ogert) Hardekopf; two daughters, Brandy Hardekopf, Tiffanie (Uriel) Ponce; three grandchildren, Bailey Elizabeth Bryant, Collin Thomas Bryant, and Benjamin Clark Kent Ponce; three brothers, Eugene Hardekopf, Earl (Maureen) Hardekopf, and Edwin Hardekopf; several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Estella (Frausto) Hardekopf; two brothers, Edward Hardekopf and Ernest Hardekopf.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at DALEIDEN MORTUARY, 220 North Lake Street, Aurora, Illinois 60506. 630-631-5500

Funeral services will be held Sunday, October 11. 2026 at 6:00 PM at DALEIDEN MORTUARY; Fr. Frederick Peterson, O.S.B. will officiate. Interment will be private.

Please visit our interactive website at www.daleidenmortuary.com where you may sign the guest book or leave condolences for Eric’s family.

Arrangements entrusted to Daleiden Mortuary, Aurora, Illinois – providing funeral and cremation services to Aurora, Montgomery, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Batavia, Yorkville and surrounding communities.

View Eric G. Hardekopf's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

10/07/2026

A Time to Remember, Honor & Celebrate

As Día de los Mu***os approaches, we recognize a beautiful tradition that holds deep meaning for many families in our community. It is a time to reflect on the lives of those who came before us, share cherished memories, and celebrate the love and legacy they left behind.

At Daleiden Mortuary, we believe the lives of those we love are always worth remembering. We send our warmest wishes to all those in our community preparing to honor their loved ones this Día de los Mu***os. 🕯️❤️