Annette A. Nowicki

Annette A. Nowicki, affectionately known as “Toni,” was born on February 24, 1947, in Rockford, Illinois, the eldest daughter of Jasper and Mary (Roccaforte) Giacone. She passed away peacefully at home on May 30, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family, leaving a legacy of love, kindness, and commitment to those she touched throughout her life. Toni married the love of her life, Roger L. Nowicki on November 27, 1971, and he preceded her in death on March 28, 2020.

Toni devoted thirty years of her career as a paraprofessional with the Rockford Public School District, where she found her passion in teaching special needs children. She was a selfless and hardworking educator, whose generosity and caring nature knew no bounds. Toni dedicated her time to nurturing her students, ensuring they felt valued and encouraged in their unique journeys. Her unconditional love had a profound impact on many families, setting an example of compassion that will resonate for years to come.

An alumna of Mount Saint Clare College in Davenport, Iowa, Toni embodied an admirable spirit of lifelong learning. Her keen desire to acquire knowledge and skill only enhanced her ability to enrich the lives of those around her. Beyond her professional accomplishments, she possessed a myriad of hobbies and interests that painted a picture of a truly engaging life. Toni found joy in simple pleasures: baking her famed bacon, chive, and cheddar scones, enjoying quiet nights by the pond with her husband, and tending to her vegetable garden alongside Roger, where she delighted in sharing her harvest with anyone who stopped by.

Toni’s love for chocolate was boundless, as was her fondness for those cozy evenings at home with a glass of Kahlua on ice. She cherished her morning cups of coffee, often reflecting and starting her day with an inspiration Padre Pio. Shopping at QVC also brought her considerable joy; she embraced every opportunity to indulge in her interests and connect with the world around her.

Toni's warm and vibrant personality radiated generosity and kindness. She was a woman who gave of herself so freely—even in the smallest moments. Whether she was making others laugh or simply lending a listening ear, Toni’s presence was a gift to everyone privileged to know her.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Sue with OSF Hospice for her wonderful care of Toni.

Toni is survived by those who loved her most, her daughters, Melissa (Matthew Curley) Nowicki and Mary (Joshua) Schaffer; grandchildren, Ian, Kaylee (Jordan), Myah, and Olen; great grand daughter, Elliana; siblings, Phyllis Sandine, Nicholas (Jacki) Giacone, Francesca (Dave) Nelson, and Joseph Giacone; nieces/nephews, Michelle (Dave Nordenberg) Sandine, Tommy (Jayne) Sandine, Jay Bird (Liz) Sandine, Nicholas Giacone Jr., Jennifer (Chad) Pierce, Catherine Giacone, and numerous great nieces & nephews; close friend & cousin, Carm Probst; special friend, Sylvia and her family; and son from another mother, Michael LaPuta. She is greeted in Heaven by her husband, Roger; parents, Jasper and Mary; and brother-in-law, James "Skip" Sandine.

As we remember Annette, a loving wife, mom, nonni, sister, and nana, we gather to celebrate her life and honor the love she imparted so generously. Visitation will be held at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory - Mulford in Rockford, Illinois, on June 6, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. A Funeral Service will follow from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, concluding with a burial at Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children Hospital.

Toni’s life was a testament to the beauty of giving, loving, and living life to her fullest. We will carry her spirit in our hearts as we gather in remembrance of her remarkable journey.