Antonio Licari

Antonio Licari (88), of Rockford, IL, passed away on September 22, 2023, surrounded by his family.

Antonio, fondly known as Tony or Toto, was born on September 24, 1934, in Sicily. He was the youngest of six children. He served in the Italian Navy. He immigrated to America for employment. He loved spending time with his family and friends and was known for his sense of humor, the stories he told, his magic tricks, and his big baritone voice. He loved the opera and was always belting out his favorite opera songs. He was the family caregiver- nursing us back to health when we were ill. He was also the family chauffeur- driving his wife to work and his kids to school events, music lessons, college trips, and even to job interviews. He helped with math homework using garden seeds. He was an encouraging father that believed we could accomplish anything with hard work and raised three smart, self-sufficient daughters. He enjoyed gardening, and was very proud of his garden, even growing grapes to make (potent) homemade wine. He loved to cook, and he loved to eat good food. He enjoyed talking to people and tried to make everyone smile. He was a generous and kind soul and would give the shirt off his back if anyone needed it.

The family would like to thank the attentive ER and PCU hospital staff at Swedish American Heart Hospital and Fitzgerald’s Funeral Home for their kindness and assistance.

Antonio was survived by his wife of 53 years Rosaria, his three daughters and son-in-law: Josephine Hammond, Antonina (Jeffery) White and Mary Licari. He is also survived by his sister Antonina (Soura Patrizia of the Sacred Hearts Palermo, Sicily). He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren: Tristan Hammond, Elizabeth White, Victoria White, Vivian White, Michael Atterbury First Lieutenant and Infantry Officer US Army, and Mason Atterbury.

He was predeceased by his parents, Giuseppina and Filippo, as well as his brothers and sisters: Vincenzo, Caterina, Giovanni, and Giuseppa.

Services will be held at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Avenue, in Rockford, IL, on Thursday September 28, 2023. Visitation begins at 9 am, followed by a service at 10 am. Floral arrangements have already been made.

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