In loving memory of Karol Joyce Fridley, 89, of Wheaton, IL who passed away peacefully on April 18, 2024 at Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL.  Karol was born on March 18, 1935 to Alice and Urban DePorter in Moline, IL.  Karol dedicated her life to caring for her family, ensuring their well-being and nurturing a home filled with love and warmth. Her selflessness extended beyond her own loved ones as she welcomed all into her home with open arms, creating a sense of love and security for everyone she encountered.

Karol graduated from Oregon High School in Oregon, IL where she developed her compassionate nature and genuine generosity. It was on a magical Christmas Eve in 1950 that she crossed paths with James Fridley, the love of her life while walking home from Midnight Mass. Their bond blossomed into a beautiful union on October 5, 1957, marked by enduring love and devotion.  Together they had five daughters Cynthia (Robert) Tesnow, Christine Domenick, Andrea Fridley, Angela (Bob) Evan, and Julianne (Jack) Whelton.

Dancing through life with grace and cheerleading those around her with unwavering support, Karol found true joy in the presence of her children, grandchildren, and all who affectionately knew her as "Nana." Her legacy of kindness and empathy shone brightly through her acts of selflessness, from volunteering at the church, being the "class mom" throughout her daughters' school years, caregiving for multiple families and comforting for those in need.  Karol had 16 grandchildren: James (Colleen) Tesnow, Ryan Tesnow, Corey Domenick, Nicole (Joe) Mitura, Amanda Domenick, Matthew Domenick, Aaron Domenick, Evan Domenick, Cody Whelton, Tyler Whelton, Michael Whelton, Taylor Evan, Madison Evan, Bryce Evan, Brittany (Avery) Smith, and Courtney (Eddie) Rose.

Karol proudly cheered on her grandchildren's sports teams, attending their school musicals, awards ceremonies, and school functions which are all a testament to her unwavering support and love for her family.

Karol's nurturing presence and compassionate heart touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark of warmth and kindness for generations to come.  She is survived by her husband James Fridley, all of her children and grandchildren, her brother Anthony DePorter, and her sister, Barbara Davies and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her father Urban DePorter, her mother, Alice DePorter, her sisters Virginia (Dee) Palmer, Betty (Harry) Rogers, Patricia Steffa, Louise DePorter, and her brother Urban Jr. (Jackie) DePorter.

Forever in our hearts a beloved wife, mother, sister, aunt, Nana, and friend, may we carry forward her spirit of compassion and generosity in our own lives, honoring the enduring light she brought into the world.

Visitation will be Thursday, May 2, 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at Hultgren Funeral Home, 304 N. Main St. Wheaton, IL. Funeral Mass will be Friday, May 3, 11:00 a.m. at St. Mark's Catholic Church, 300 E. Cole Ave, Wheaton, IL. Following the Funeral Mass will be a procession to Assumption Cemetery, 1S510 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL where a graveside service will follow.

Funeral information call 630-668-0027 or www. hultgrenfh.com