CHICAGO, ILLINOIS — The community is mourning the passing of Olivia “Liv” Maria Orencia, a devoted daughter, fiancée, and respected social worker who died on June 18, 2026, at the age of 29 following a diagnosis of an aggressive brain tumor. She passed away in Chicago, surrounded by her loved ones after being hospitalized during her final days.
Born on December 3, 1996, Olivia was raised in Algonquin, Illinois, where she was known for her bright personality, compassion, and passion for dance. As the eldest of three siblings, she grew up alongside Elise and Adam in a close-knit family built on love, support, and shared memories.
Olivia attended Jacobs High School, where she excelled academically and became a standout member of the varsity dance team for four consecutive years. Teachers, classmates, and coaches remember her as a disciplined, creative, and uplifting presence who led with both talent and kindness.
She went on to study at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earning her undergraduate degree in 2019 and completing her Master of Social Work in 2020. During her university years, she was actively involved in Alpha Xi Delta Sorority, choreographed charitable dance performances, and served as a coach with the Universal Dance Association, reflecting her lifelong dedication to both service and the arts.
Olivia began her professional career at UW Health University Hospital, where she worked as a social worker during the COVID-19 pandemic. In that role, she provided emotional support to patients and families facing illness, grief, and uncertainty. In February 2026, she joined Agrace Hospice Care, continuing her commitment to palliative care and compassionate end-of-life support.
Beyond her career, Olivia’s life was defined by love and meaningful relationships. She met her partner, John Moroney, while studying in Madison, and the couple later became engaged on March 21, 2026, at Giddings Park. They had been planning their wedding for July 2027.
In mid-June 2026, Olivia was diagnosed with a likely glioma brain tumor. Despite the devastating illness, she remained surrounded by the support of her family, friends, and fiancé until her passing.
She is survived by her parents, Amy and Manny Orencia, her siblings Elise and Adam, and her beloved dog, Sanders. She is remembered for her compassion, leadership, creativity, and the lasting impact she made on patients, colleagues, friends, and loved ones.
Plans are underway for visitation services, where family and friends will gather to honor her life and legacy. In her memory, charitable initiatives and a memorial installation are also being planned to celebrate her love of dance, nature, and service to others.
Olivia “Liv” Maria Orencia will be deeply missed, but her legacy of kindness and care will continue to live on through all whose lives she touched. May she rest in peace.