Leslie Rae Ortman

Leslie Rae “Bear” Ortman, nee Johnston, 70, of Wheaton IL and formerly of Palatine, IL passed away after battling esophageal cancer on January 10, 2021. Beloved daughter of the late Ray and late Grace Johnston. Loving mother of Abigail (Adam) Jung, Robert Ortman and James Ortman. Cherished Grandma Bear to William and Benji Jung, Anastasia, Maribel and Bella Ortman. Dear sister of Cal (Debby) and Gail (the late John) Dianis. Fond aunt of Tracy (Isaac) Salazar and Kelly Dianis. Cherished friend to many. Leslie was an amazing, kind, selfless woman, affectionately known as “Bear” by friends and family. Following graduation from Knox College, she began 41 years of exemplary service to the United States Federal Government at the Social Security Administration (1973-2014). During her four decades of work, Leslie helped to secure retirement income for countless people, and thoroughly delighted in fielding endless SSA questions from family and friends. As an active member of St. Matthews United Church of Christ in Wheaton, IL, she enjoyed Wednesday meetings with the WEBS group, Family Camp, and Mission Trips to Costa Rica and Honduras. Favorite memories include travel to Canada, Hawaii, Alaska, Florida, Mount Rushmore, Cape Cod and Atlanta, and returning home to Wheaton. Leslie loved walks at Herrick Lake with her dog, Pepper. Always kind, and always thinking of others before herself, to know her was a blessing. She was very loved and will be very missed. The amazing support of her friends, church members and family during her illness was much appreciated. At Leslie’s request, a memorial service will be held when gatherings are again safe. Family and friends will be invited to have a drink, mingle and share stories of Leslie’s incredible life’s journey. May we continue to love and support each other in her memory. Donations may be sent to St. Matthews United Church of Christ, Wheaton, Il The Northern Illinois Food Depository Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.