C. Iris Garelli, 77, of Burlington, passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Aurora Medical Center in Burlington.
Born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico, on May 6, 1948, she was the daughter of Francisco and Inocencia Nieves. She resided in Puerto Rico and came to live in New York at the age of 9. Then moved to Chicago, IL with her Sister/Mother Emily Villacres, and grew up along with her Nieces and Nephews. She became a Burlington resident in 2022 and resided with her son, Jerry Gallaga.
Iris worked as an executive secretary for Delta Dental. In her retired life, she loved to travel, cook, dine out, and watch television. Family was the most important aspect of her life. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was known to be a very strong debater and not afraid to tell it like it was. She was an amazing Mother, Grandmother, and wife. We were beyond blessed to have her in our lives. Anyone who knew our Mother knew how truly amazing she was! The strongest person we know that touched so many lives. She will be truly missed.
Iris Garelli is survived by her children, Kim DePolo, Iris McDonald, Jerry Gallaga, and grandchildren, Jillian, Kaylee, Mia, Dylan, Zoey, Avery, Savannah; Her brother, Paul, and sister, Lucy. She is further survived by her husband Joe and best friend Michelle. She was preceded in death by her parents, sister Emily Villacres, and firstborn daughter Briana DePolo.
The family would like to thank the entire surgery staff at St. Luke’s Medical Center, especially Dr. Thomas Wolfe, along with the ICU team. Also, the entire ICU staff at Aurora Medical Center, Burlington, during the time of her passing.
Flowers can be sent to the funeral home, and/or Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
A gathering to celebrate her life will be announced in the coming weeks at the following address.
Schuette-Daniels Funeral Home & Crematory
625 S. Browns Lake Drive
Burlington, WI 53105
(262) 763-3434 www.danielsfamilyfuneral.com
