Leo P. Pirrello

Leo P. Pirrello, 91, Rockford, passed away Wednesday, June 28, 2017, in his home surrounded by his family. He was born February 22, 1926, in Rockford, the son of Guiesseppi and Patrina (Giametta) Pirrello. He was a 1945 graduate of Rockford West High School. Leo was an Army veteran serving from 1945 until 1947 stationed in Germany. He married Carol Jean Lewis in Rockford on August 15, 1953. He worked at Sundstrand Aviation for 16 years and then for Engis Equipment Company as a factory representative for 5 years. In 1971 Leo started his own company DI-AB-CO and sold it in 1992. He attended Central Christian Church for over 50 years. Leo was Chairman of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, President of Abrasive Engineering Society and Co-founder and Charter member of Kepotah Sportsman’s Club.
Survived by his wife of 63 years, Carol; his daughter, Linda (Craig) Jennings; his son, Steven (Cindy Petty) Pirrello; his grandchildren, Steven P. Pirrello, Anthony (Kascha Bohnenblust) Johnson, Matthew (Stacey Hargrave) Johnson, Nicholas (Maggie Deckert) Johnson, Felicia (Lee) Johnson, Randi (Josh Evans) Jennings, Tyler (Sara Hesler) Pirrello and Peter Jennings; his great-grandchildren, Kyla White, Chloe Johnson, Korbin Johnson, Bentley Pirrello, Charli Evans, Taelyn Johnson, Kenzie Zook, Keaton Hargrave and Kash Hargrave; many nieces and nephews; his sister, Francis D’Agostine. Predeceased by his parents and 7 siblings.
Memorial services will be held at 11 A.M., Thursday, July 6, 2017, at Central Christian Church, 6595 Guilford Rd., with Reverend Sherm Nichols officiating. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until time of service. Cremation rites have been accorded. Burial in Rock Island National Cemetery in Rock Island. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.