Jasper D. Guarino

Jasper D. Guarino, 94 of Rockford, passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2021. Jasper was born June 18, 1926 in Rockford, IL, the son of Joseph and Josephine (LaSalla) Guarino.

Jasper served his country in the United States Army. He earned a college degree from Loras College and began his career as a teacher in the Rockford School system, retiring in 1986 after 30 years. Jasper married Anita DeBenedetto on August 15, 1959 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Rockford, IL. Jasper was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and the Lombardi, Verdi and Moose Clubs. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed dancing. He also volunteered at St, Anne Center Nursing Home. Relationships he formed with family and friends were very important to him, and he considered having a sense of humor as an important part of mental health.

Jasper is survived by his wife of 62 years, Anita; daughter, Karen Guarino; son, Frank Guarino; sisters-in-law, Gerry Guarino, Josephine Panozzo and Judy DeBenedetto, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Sam and Nick Guarino; sisters, Josephine Baldride and Lillian Joy; brothers-in-law, Gus DeBenedetto and Joseph Panozzo; nephew, Angelo Panozzo and niece, Kathy Farr.

All services for Jasper will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Jasper’s name to the family. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory assisted the family. Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.