Bessie Abramovich

Bessie Samartano Abramovich, 91, a life-long resident of Rockford, died October 22, 2010. Born May 3, 1919, she was the second of Nicholas and Angelina Samartano's four children and their oldest daughter. She was preceded in death by her parents, older brother, Michael Samartano, and daughter-in-law, Nancy Lee. She is survived by three children; son Michael F. Abramovich Jr. and wife Carol of Albuquerque, NM; daughter Helene Hinkel and husband Arthur of Machesney Park; and son George James of Escondido, CA. She is also survived by five grandchildren; Michael Abramovich of Albuquerque, NM; Wendi Abramovich of Rio Rancho, NM; Kelli Abramovich of Glendale, AZ; Tom Leu and wife Bobbi of Rockford; Lorianne Hinkel of Machesney Park, and four great grandchildren; Cameron Montano of Rio Rancho, NM; Christian Leu of Rockford and Maddy and Gabby Roth of Rockford. Additionally, she is survived by two sisters, Josephine Edgren of Rockford and Mary Briski of Lexington, KY; plus two nieces and one nephew. Bessie was a long-time communicant at St Bernadette's Catholic Church and during her life she worked first as a nurse's aide and then at Atwood Industries, from which she retired in the 1970's. She was a kind-hearted and loving woman who enjoyed good pasta, fine chocolates and entertaining with the "Dancing Dames" dance troupe. The family would like to thank Alpine Fireside Health Centers' nurses, CNAs and their entire staff for all the loving care, and the staff at Transitions Hospice for their compassionate concern. The family extends a special "Thank You!" to Karina and Stephanie for always keeping our beloved mother entertained. Family and friends are invited to gather for the visitation and viewing on Wednesday, October 27, 2010 at 10am until 10:45 at St Bernadette Catholic Church, 2400 Bell Avenue, Rockford, IL. To be immediately followed by Mass of Resurrection at 11:00am. Interment will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home Riverside Chapel.