Barney A. Alfano

Barney A. Alfano, 93, of Rockford, passed away surrounded by his family on January 23, 2017. He was born August 21, 1923, in Rockford, the son of Dominic and Vita (Bordonaro) Alfano. After high school he joined the United States Army Air Corps where he proudly served for six years. On November 13, 1948, he married the love of his life, Josephine Russo. Along with his brothers, he owned the Wheel Inn in South Beloit. He was a member for 62 years at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Rockford. Barney enjoyed gardening, had an excellent sense of humor, and a kind nature. Above all else, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and brother.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Josephine; children, Don (Linda) Alfano, Veda (James) Shepardson, and Charles (Greta) Alfano; grandchildren, Lisa (Jason) Osborne, Christopher Alfano, Steven Alfano, Richard Shepardson, Mark (fiancée, Chiyoko) Shepardson, Scott (Kathryn) Shepardson, Lauren (Christopher) LiCausi, Nicholas Alfano, and Alysia Alfano; great grandchildren, Alexander and Emmett Osborne; his brother, Joseph (Ann) Alfano and sister, Frances DeVito. Predeceased by his parents and brothers, Frank and Lux.
The family thanks Dr. Donald Rabor, Northern Illinois Hospice, Swedish American Home Health Care, and the Veteran Association for their compassionate care.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 28, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Peter. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. Entombment at Sunset Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.