Joseph A. Dicaprio

Joseph A DiCaprio, 60 of Rockford, Illinois died peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2009, with his wife Paula, at his side. Throughout his long battle with cancer, he never surrendered his will to live, his deep love and concern for his family, or his sense of humor in the face of great adversity. Born in Rome, New York on July 11, 1948, Joe was the son of Alfonso and Flora (Guaspari) DiCaprio, whose families immigrated from Lucca, S Agata Dei Gote and Malyjano Italy, during the early twentieth century. His Italian heritage added much to Joes wonderful personality, openness and generosity. He often reminisced about his childhood in Romes Italian neighborhood and growing up with his beloved grandmothers loving care, always with a far-off look and twinkle in his eyes. Joe graduated from Rome Free Academy High School, Rome, NY and State University New York, Fredonia, in Math and Physics. Over their 22 year relationship, his passion for American History inspired innumerable conversations with his wife Paula, whose knowledge his insightfulness always challenged and enriched. Theirs was a truly dynamic bond, forged by friendship and shared lifelong love of learning, as true soul mates. Before moving to Illinois in law school, Joe worked for the New York Bureau of Narcotics, Springfield, NY. Upon retirement, he owned AMCON Electronics, located in Utica, NY. He later graduated from Northern Illinois University Law School and practiced law in Belvidere and Rockford as a trial attorney. He was a member of the American Bar Association, the American Trial Lawyers Association and the ACLU. Joe was also a member of the Holy Name Society at St. Anthony of Padua Church. Joe is survived by his wife Paula (Gemignani) DiCaprio, son John, daughter-in-law Marisa Realini and his devoted caregiver and golden retriever Chief. Many, many friends and family in both New York and Illinois will remember Joe as having blessed their lives with his wisdom, his courage and his unbounded generosity. Funeral Mass will be Saturday, May 16, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church, 1010 Ferguson St., Rockford, IL 61102, with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Interment in Fairview Park Cemetery, DeKalb, IL. Donations will be directed to the American Cancer Society, Lung Cancer Research, 4312 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108. The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home amp; Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. To express condolences to the family online please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.