Joseph F. Di Mario

Joseph F Di Mario, son of Alfred and Jennie Di Mario, was born to life on November 23, 1924 in Rockford and born to eternity on Wednesday, January 14 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Joe graduated from West High School, Class of '42. He was a WWII veteran, joining the army in 1943. He was in 266 Port Company, serving in the South Pacific including the Philippines, Japan, and New Guinea. Joe married Ann Choppi on November 2, 1947 in St. Anthony Church. Joe worked as a pressman for 45 years at the Rockford Newspaper. He retired from the newspaper in 1991 and after retirement went on to work for Meals on Wheels. Joe took pride in helping others even if it was just spending time in talking. He was a lifetime member of St. Anthony Church. He especially enjoyed sharing stories with his grandchildren, family road trips, relaxing in his recliner and tapping his foot to big band, classical and opera music, trips to Arlington Park, gardening, and baking whenever his heart desired. Survivors include his beloved wife Ann of 67 years. Four children, Joanne Di Mario, Joseph (Patty) Di Mario, Alfred Di Mario and Carl (Pamela) Di Mario. Daughter-in-law, Trisha Graydon. Grandchildren, Laura (LaCarlin) Davis, John Williams, Daniel (Elizabeth) Di Mario, Emily (Thomas) Warmoth, Molly (Blaine) Oliphant, Marie (Mitch) Juhl, Jennifer (Manuel) Di Mario-Jimenez, Jordan Di Mario, Hope, Haylee and Hollee Di Mario. Nine great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, son Michael, sister Annette Peterson and brother Frank. Special thanks to the staff at VNA Hospice, Rockford Nephrology, and to Dr. Roger's and Dr. Rabor. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family.
Funeral Mass at 11am Tuesday January 20, 2015 in St Anthony Church with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation from 9am until 10:45 Tuesday in the church. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home Riverside Chapel. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com