Lorraine Elizabeth Doran (née Wasik) was born in Chicago on February 23, 1934, and was the second youngest of 10 children born to Thomas Wasik (1885–1965) and Catherine (née Chmiel) Wasik (1895–1977), both immigrants from Poland. She was the last surviving sibling of Francis, Sophie, Angela, Genevieve, Helen, Emily, Chester, Eleanor and Mary Ann.
Known as “Lor” to family and friends, she grew up on Aberdeen Street in Chicago’s Back of the Yards neighborhood and attended St. John of God Elementary School and St. Joseph’s High School. In 1956, she married James Doran, who grew up just one street away from her childhood home.
Together they raised two children, Kevin J. (deceased) and Karyl A., in the Clearing neighborhood on Chicago’s Southwest Side near Midway Airport. Lorraine lived in her raised ranch bungalow there for more than 65 years and cherished her strong ties to the community.
She worked for Clements and AA Wire during the 1960s and 1970s, later commuting downtown to positions at Time-Life, Inc. and American National Bank. A favorite memory from her banking days was assisting baseball legend Ernie Banks over the phone. Her steady work ethic and perseverance helped support her family throughout the years.
Outside of work, Lorraine enjoyed her favorite television programs, crossword and word search puzzles, and indulging her sweet tooth. In retirement, she spent countless hours on her stationary bike—jokingly “riding around the world”—and remained mentally sharp through her love of puzzles. Even in her later years, when health concerns kept her closer to home, she faithfully attended Mass at St. Rene Goupil Church just down the block.
Lorraine was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her daughter, Karyl A.; her son-in-law, Daniel Simms; and her beloved grandson, Tyler, of whom she was especially proud for his academic achievements. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, all of whom she spoke of often. She was preceded in death by her son, Kevin J., and her siblings.
Lorraine will be remembered for her gentle spirit, quiet strength and warm smile. Her family, especially those who passed before her, were always close to her heart.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 9 a.m. until prayers at 11 a.m. at Foran Funeral Home, 7300 W. Archer Ave. (55th Street just west of Harlem).
Procession will follow to Two Holy Martyrs Parish, St. Rene Goupil Church, for an 11:30 a.m. Mass.
Interment will be at Resurrection Cemetery, where she will be laid to rest beside her son.
All are invited to gather for a luncheon in Lorraine’s honor at Capri Ristorante Italiano, 12307 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, Illinois.