Monika Velez

Monika Velez, 74, passed away peacefully at her home in Roselle, Illinois, on November 6, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on September 9, 1951, in Bochum, Germany. In 1957, at the age of six, Monika moved to Chicago with her parents, Edward and Helga Korth, and her brother, Rudi.

Monika attended the University of Chicago and went on to earn a master’s degree in Education from Chicago State University. She dedicated 39 years to the Chicago Public School system, where she touched countless lives before retiring in 2013 as a school counselor.

Monika met her soulmate and the love of her life, Manuel, with whom she shared 50 wonderful years of marriage. She is survived by her devoted husband, Manuel; her children, Daniel, Adam (Bryne), Elliot, and Emily; her cherished granddaughter, Olivia; and many dear friends and extended family members. Monika’s life was filled with laughter, kindness, and love—qualities that will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Sunday, November 9, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels, 450 W. Lake Street, Roselle, IL 60172. A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 10, at 10:00 a.m. at the same location, followed by burial at Mount Carmel Cemetery, 1400 S. Wolf Road, Hillside, IL 60162.