Lauren Anne Santana

Lauren Anne Santana

Our sweet, courageous girl passed peacefully at the age of 17 on Sunday, November 26, 2023 after a year-long battle with cancer. Lauren was born on November 2, 2006 to Julie (nee Hayes) and Luis Santana, and she was raised in Homer Glen, IL.

Lauren was a gift to her family and all who knew her. She approached life with confidence and an easy, relaxed spirit. She was content with her life, even through her battle with cancer. She loved binge-watching TV, in particular Friends, Grey's Anatomy, One Tree Hill, and Pitch Perfect. At the time of her passing, Lauren was a junior at Lockport Township High School. Over the years, she was praised by her teachers for her kindness and was recently awarded Lockport High School's "Porter Pride" award for her tremendous resilience, perseverance, and grit. Lauren wanted to grow up to be a teacher.

Lauren is survived by her brother, Michael, whom she absolutely adored. They had a unique and special sibling bond, and through much of their lives, it was rare to see one without the other. Lauren also is survived by her Nana (Anna Santana) and her Mimi and Papa (Linda and Jim Hayes), who loved, supported, and built amazing memories with her. Lauren will be missed by her uncles Brian (Lois), Joe (Leidy), Rocco, and her aunt Stephanie as well as her many cousins, friends, and extended family. The family would also like to thank the amazing doctors, nurses, and staff at Comer Children's, who fought Lauren's cancer battle alongside her.

Lauren was preceded in death by her abuelo, Luis Santana.

The family will receive all who want to celebrate Lauren's life at Kurtz Memorial Chapel 102 E. Francis Rd, New Lenox, IL on Thursday, November 30, 2023 from 4-8 p.m. Funeral service will be on Friday, December 1, 2023 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be at Good Shepherd Cemetery in Orland Park, IL.

We are going to miss our Taylor Swift, Steph Curry (Golden State Warriors), Starbucks-loving girl.