Charles J. Marchese

Charles J. "Charlie" Marchese, 80, Rockford, died at 10:30 a.m. Monday, November 9, 2009 in Provena St. Anne Center. Born May 1, 1929 in Brooklyn, NY, son of Charles and Frances Mirto Marchese. Married Frances C. Giamalva in Rockford on August 16, 1952. Employed by Barber Colman Company as an inspector for 38 years, retiring in 1991. U.S. Army veteran, having served during the Korean Conflict. He was a charter member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church and a member of their Senior Association. He also participated with the Parish Outreach. Charlie enjoyed gardening, cooking and traveling. He was a kind and gentle man who loved his family and was loved by all. During Charlies illness his entire family received many graces through the abundant prayers of others. Survivors include his wife; sons, James Marchese and Chuck (Leanne) Marchese; daughters, Susan (Steve) Sondgeroth, Linda (Ted) Schuler and Anne (Jim) Wegman; grandchildren, Jim, Joey and Jeff Marchese, Tim Stuker, Luke and Jake Schuler and Chris and Josh Wegman. Also survived by great-grandchildren, Ceijae and Natalie Marchese; sister, Ann Marino; numerous nieces and nephews; brothers-in-law, Lou (Andrea) Giamalva and Vince (Kathy) Giamalva; sisters-in-law, Rae Ferro and Joanne (Bill) Wargo. Predeceased by his parents and sister, Lillian Minardi. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 13, 2009 in St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Thursday in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. A Rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.