John J. Villani

John J. Villani, 91, lifelong Rockford resident, peacefully joined his wife and other loving family members on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 in his home. Born May 15, 1922, son of Contido and Adella DeCori Villani. Married Annette Provenzano in St. Anthony of Padua Church on November 12, 1949. She died February 13, 2013. He was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, having participated in the occupation of Japan. John was a hard worker with a strong work ethic. He spent 39 years working at Barber-Colman, retired and then spent another 20 years with Rockford Industrial Welding Supply before he retired again. He had many talents and was always able to fix anything for anybody. He loved to fish, play his guitar and took many treasured family photographs. John was so proud of his family and completely devoted to them.

Survivors include his son, Thom Villani; daughter, Nancy Villani; grandchildren, Jay (Carla) Villani and Alexis Anderson; great-grandchildren, Nicholas Villani and Erika Villani; special family friend, Monica Longnecker; sister, Marge (John) Saporito; sisters-in-law, Virginia Gulotta, Kris Provenzano, Fran (Alex) Las Casas; brother-in-law, Albert (Annette) Provenzano and numerous nieces and nephews. Also predeceased by his parents; brother, Mike Villani; sisters, Clara (Bill) Ambrosia, Rose (Dick) Corovossi, Jennie (David) Marsili; mother and father-in-law, Lucia and Nicholas Provenzano; brothers-in-law, Sam Gulotta, Augie Provenzano, Dominic Provenzano and nephew, Alex Gulotta. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Mila and the other wonderful caregivers, Eva and Sarah who worked so hard to enrich John's life. Thank you also to Julie, his nurse and the other staff from Heartland Hospice for all being part of the caregiving team that helped him keep his dignity and independence.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 5, 2014 in St. Anthony of Padua Church with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. until time of the Mass at the church. Arrangements were completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Memorials may be made to Heartland Hospice or to the family. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.