Audrey Anna Metes (nee Bitner), age 78 of Barrington, IL, formerly of Manhattan, IL, passed away peacefully on October 14, 2026, at StoryPoint of Crystal Lake in the presence of her loved ones. Survived by her children Bill (Megan Gilbert) Metes, Shelley Metes, her soulmate of 27 years Paul Siracusa and his beloved children Paul (Brandee) Siracusa and Brian Siracusa, grandchildren Ellen, Hailee, and Matt, her brother Glenn (Marilyn) Bitner, and sister-in-law Dorothy Bitner. Preceded in death by her parents Ellis M. Bitner and Madeline V. Bitner (nee Johnson), her brother Leroy Bitner, and sister-in-law Cathy Bitner.

Audrey held so many values close to her, starting with her family. She and Paul enjoyed camping in Door County for many years together. She laughed with Bill while they tackled the mountains of Colorado skiing together. She and Shelley shared a love of the theatre attending shows ranging from the ballet to musicals and plays. Audrey held her whole family very close to her heart, and relationships with her brothers, cousins, and extended family were very important to her.

Audrey retired as corporate paralegal having worked downtown for over 20 years. She loved the energy of the city and staying active. Some of her favorite activities include walking, dancing, playing golf, exercising, and yoga. These weren’t just ways of staying physically fit; these were opportunities that allowed her love of life to shine in special ways.

Audrey was always smiling and always had music playing. Her love for music began by playing the organ at church, piano lessons growing up, and playing the flute in her high school marching band. As she got older, she continued to play the piano at every Christmas holiday while her family gathered around her singing carols. Audrey’s love for music knew no boundaries from the Squirrel Nut Zippers to the beating sounds of Motown – she loved it all. A loving mother, soulmate, grandma, sister, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Visitation for Audrey will take place at Forsythe Gould Funeral Home on Sunday, October 18, 2026 from 2:00pm to 6:00pm. Prayers will take place at 10:00am on Monday, October 19, 2026, also at the funeral home, followed by procession to Manhattan Methodist Church for Service at 10:30am. Interment North Providence Cemetery, Elwood, IL. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com.