Eileen Catherine Hennen

Eileen Catherine Hennen, beloved wife, mother, and granny, passed away on Thursday, July 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Eileen was born on April 7, 1942, in Chicago, IL to Martin and Julia (Nebel) Browne. She attended Ravenswood School of Nursing before marrying Ken Hennen in February of 1964. They enjoyed 60 years of marriage, raising four children and welcoming eight grandchildren.

Eileen lived a life full of love and laughter. A member of the 1960 National Champion Round Lake High School R-Lettes, her radiant energy and high spirits followed her everywhere she went. Her caring personality and dedication to helping others drove Eileen’s lasting career as a registered nurse. Eileen was incredibly devoted to her faith and was a member of Holy Family Parish for more than 50 years, where she embraced a life of service teaching religious education, volunteering in the soup kitchen, and preparing meals for the homebound.

Being a granny was the greatest joy of Eileen’s life. Rain or shine, she made it to every sports game, recital, and concert wearing the team colors and the brightest smile in the crowd. She loved making personal gifts for the kids and was famous for her kiddie cocktails and handmade Irish-knit sweaters.

Eileen was preceded in death by her parents, Martin and Julia Browne; brother, Mike Browne; and sister, Mary Curtin. She is survived by her husband, Ken Hennen; her children: Mary (Steve) Johnson, Katie (Paul) Rogers, Cliff (Carrie) Hennen, and Neil Hennen; her grandchildren: Maura, Dale, Will, and Maggie Johnson, Audrey Loomis, Stanley Rogers, Leah and Alex Hennen; her brother, Tom Browne; and several nieces and nephews.

We will forever miss her infectious laugh, bright smile, and lively stories.

A memorial Mass for Eileen will be held on July 25th at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Road, Rockford, IL 61107. There will be a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until the time of Mass. To share memories and extend condolences to the family, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Eileen’s name may be made to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration (theaftd.org), the ASPCA (aspca.org), or animal rescue of your choice.