Nenita B. Lucero

Nenita B. Lucero, born on February 19, 1937, passed away on October 6, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by faith, devotion, service, and enduring love for her family.

A graduate of San Juan de Dios Nursing School in Manila, Philippines, Nenita devoted her professional life to the care of others. She worked as a nurse at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Chicago, Illinois, and later at the VA Medical Center in Hines, Illinois, where she retired after 40 years of service. Her long career reflected a steady compassion and a deep commitment to helping those entrusted to her care.

Faith stood at the center of Nenita’s life. She was deeply devoted to Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, praying daily, attending Mass every day, joining the Eucharistic Ministry staff and volunteering to lead Rosary sessions at morning Mass. Her belief was not only something she professed, but something she lived with constancy and grace. In her home and in her community, she offered a quiet but powerful witness to a life rooted in prayer.

That same devotion shaped the way she loved her family. To her late husband, Emetario Lucero, she was fiercely loyal, especially towards the last few years of his life as she became his primary caregiver. To her children, she was an example of how to depend on Jesus every day. To her grandchildren, she was both funny and loving, a presence who brought warmth, laughter, and affection into their lives.

Nenita is survived by her children -- Rosanna (Elenn) Lucero Dalat, Emily (Joy) Lucero Paelmo, Erika Lucero Messina, and Edgar Lucero. She also leaves her cherished grandchildren -- EJ Paelmo, Griffith Messina, Mason Messina, Kennedy Messina, Gabby Paelmo, Mia Paelmo, Carson Messina, and Daniel Lucero -- each of whom knew her as a beloved Lola. She is also survived by her three son-in-laws -- Steve Dalat, Giuseppe Paelmo, Chris Messina -- and her daughter-in-law, Diana Lucero.  In the circle of her family, Nenita’s love was steadfast, generous, and deeply felt. Her memory will continue to be carried with gratitude and tenderness.

She was preceded in death by her father, Marcos Bundoc, mother, Lola Bundoc and her brother, Monsignor Lamberto Bundoc.

Visitation will be held on Friday October 9, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Salerno's Rosedale Chapels, 450 W Lake St, Roselle, IL 60172. Prayers and final viewing will take place on Saturday October 10, 2026, at 8:45 a.m. at Salerno's Rosedale Chapels. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish, 601 Biesterfield Rd, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007.

Nenita B. Lucero will be remembered for the strength of her faith, the dignity of her service, and the love she gave so freely to those around her. Her life was a blessing, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to all who knew and loved her.