Joe A. Raia

Joe A. Raia, 74, Rockford, died of cancer at 12:45 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2009 in Swedish American Hospital following a long illness. Born October 12, 1934 in Rockford, son of Joseph and Rose Raia. Formerly married to Jane Crippen. Owner of Broadway Joe""s Jewelry and Pawn. Survivors include his sisters, Mary Armato and Josie Martin; children, Marc Raia and Nadine Raia and grandson, Joseph Raia. Joe""s family would like to give special thanks to the many people who helped him through his illness, including, but not limited to, Tina Severson, her daughter, Cameo, her sister, Yvette and her parents, Cork and Yvonne Cuthbertson as well as Lee Carlson. Visitation from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 20, 2009 with a time of sharing at 7:30 p.m in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. Condolences and memories can be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.