Christine “Chris” L. Ornelas, 67, of Onarga passed away on Friday, June 27, 2025 at her daughter’s residence. She was born on November 24, 1957 in Watseka, a daughter of Gleason and Margaret “Dode” (Kanosky) Thorne. She was preceded in death by both of her parents; and two brothers-in-law, Marlin Corbitt and Jeff Sellek.
Chris is survived by one daughter, Rita (Nick) Day of Bloomington; one son, Mike (Jessica) Ornelas of Hoffman Estates; one granddaughter, Leona Day; two brothers, Lloyd (Hortensia) Thorne of Oceanside, CA and Buzz (Becky) Thorne of Paxton; two sisters, Patty Trish Thorne of Palm Desert, CA, and Liz Sellek of Paxton; several nieces and nephews; and her granddog, Jax.
Chris was a proud graduate of OHS class of 1975. Chris worked for Littlefuse in Watseka for 25 years and then worked at Best Supermarket where she retired in 2020 having made a lot of friends during her time there. Chris took pride in cheering on the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. She had a love for playing in her flowers, as well as spending time outside in her gazebo. Chris enjoyed cruising around town, and was proud to be from Onarga. Most of all, Chris especially loved time spent with her family and friends.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Knapp Funeral Home in Onarga. Burial will be held at a later date.
Memorials may be given to the OSF Hospice in Bloomington or donor’s choice.
Please share a memory of Christine at www.knappfuneralhomes.com.