Joseph D. Germano
Joseph D. Germano, 94, a lifelong resident of Rockford, went to be with the Lord on February 13, 2010 at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Joseph was born August 21, 1915 in Rockford the son of Orazio and Consiglia (Fantini). Joseph married Mae Peterson in Rockford in 1937.
Joseph graduated from Central High School in 1935. He worked as an engineer at Ingersoll Milling for 45 years until his retirement in 1982, having traveled to Japan and India, and was part owner of The Manor Restaurant in Beloit. Joseph was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Church, the Belvidere Moose Lodge, and was very active with the Ingersoll Retirees Group. He enjoyed spending time at his condo in Florida during the winter months, the Caribbean cruise with his family and friends, and loved to garden, planting hot peppers, drying them, frying them, and especially loved eating them. Joseph loved people and people loved him.
Joseph is survived by his loving companion of 26 years, Eileen Olson; brothers, Nino Germano of Rockford, and Anthony (Grace) Germano of California; sister, Maria “Mary” Stacionis of Rockford, Eileen’s daughter, Bonnie (Harry) Nygren of California; Eileen’s granddaughter, Kylla (Jason) Atkisson; special Papa Joe to many grandchildren and great-grandchidlren; and several nieces and nephews. Joseph was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Mae (July 14, 1984);son, Joseph Germano (April 21, 1960); brother, John Germano; sister, Eda Germano; Sisters-in-law, Geneva Germano, Jenny Germano, and Ida Germano; brother-in-law, Albert Stacionis; and Eileen’s sons, John Olson and Tommy Olson II. The Germano family would like to say a special thank you to Nancy Wrage for everything she has done for Uncle Joe.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 19, 2010 at 10:00 A.M. at St. Anthony of Padua Church with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Burial will be in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday from 9:00 A.M. – 9:45 A.M. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Anthony of Padua, 1010 Ferguson St., Rockford, IL 61102 or the Good Samaritan Fund at Wesley Willows, 4141 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61103. Family and friends may extend online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.
