Joseph B. Cicero

Joseph B. Cicero, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 23, 2013, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Sambuca di Sicilia on November 13, 1926; the son of Peter and Maria (Parlapiano) Cicero. Joseph graduated from Rockford West High School class of 1944. Joseph married Grace DiTomassi on June 11, 1955. He was a proud veteran serving in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a partner along with his brothers, Charles and Sam in the grocery business at Cicero's Foods and the hardware business at Handyman's Hardware for over 49 years. Joe enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He loved being outdoors; hunting and fishing and was a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Bears fan. He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. The family would like to thank the staff at P.A. Peterson for their compassionate care he received over the past several months.

Joseph is survived by his wife, Grace; sons, Robert (MaryAnn) and John (Debbie) Cicero; grandchildren, Kristina, Julianne, Joseph, Alyssa and Michael; brothers, Charles (Lee) and Sam (Sally); sister-in-law, Rosemary Bianchi; nephews, Peter Cicero and Thomas Bianchi; numerous cousins. Predeceased by parents, Peter and Maria; in-laws, Domenic and Anna DiTomassi; brother-in-law, Frank Bianchi.
Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2013 in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Franciscan Friars will officiate. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass.