Joseph “Joe” A. Caltagerone, 51, of Winnebago, passed away Thursday, February 12, 2026. Born on June 13, 1974, in Rockford, IL to Russell A. and Marie E. (Esposito) Caltagerone. Joe was a 1992 graduate of Boylan Catholic High School. He attended and played football for Ripon College in Ripon, WI, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1996. He served as an officer and detective for the Rockford Police Department for 26 years. The proud father of three children, always talking about how proud he was of them any chance he had. Joe was an avid Chicago sports fan, particularly the Cubs and the Bears; he could also be found cheering on the ISU Redbirds football team. When he wasn’t serving his community, he enjoyed spending time and traveling with friends, riding his motorcycle, and adding to his impressive comic book collection.

Joe is survived by and will be greatly missed by his children, Max (Taylor) Caltagerone, Ali Jo Caltagerone, Mason Caltagerone; siblings, Phil (Mary Beth) Caltagerone, Mary Caltagerone and Sam Caltagerone. He is predeceased by his parents, Russell and Marie.

A Funeral Mass for Joe will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 1010 Ferguson St, Rockford, IL 61102, at 11:00 a.m. A visitation will be held prior to Mass from 9:00 a.m. through 10:45 a.m. Interment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. To send your condolences online and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.