Joseph B. Ognibene

Joseph B. Ognibene, 67 Loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Brother and Uncle Joseph B. Ognibene, 67, lifelong Rockford resident, died at 9:12 a.m. Thursday, May 13, 2010 in his home surrounded by his loving family, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born September 29, 1942, son of Benny and Antonia Gustella Ognibene. Graduated from West High School in 1960. Married Josephine M. LaSala in Rockford on May 13, 1961. Owner of Benny & Sons Body Shop. He was one of the original founders of Northwest Bank and still served on their Board of Directors. Member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Joe was an exercise enthusiast and had a love for adventure. He played handball for many years at the YMCA and was a runner and cyclist. He loved his time at their lake home in Wisconsin and enjoyed boating, skiing and all water sports there. His family was cherished above everything else and they were always his first priority. He was his grandchildrens main supporter in all of their activities, even in his illness when he could only watch their sporting events from his car. Survivors include his wife, Jo; sons, Benny (Lynn Van Vleet) Ognibene and Mike (Heidi) Ognibene; daughter, Jodi (Jeff) Theien; grandchildren, Kelly, Joseph, Conrad, Hayden, Kiley, Kenzie and Karley; brother, Mike (Pat) Ognibene; brother-in-law, Roger Best and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, sister, Margaret Best; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Michael and Carmela LaSala and brother-in-law, Frank LaSala. Funeral Mass at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 17, 2010 in St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church with the Franciscan Friars officiating. Entombment in Calvary Cemetery Mausoleuom. Visitation on Sunday, from 3-6 p.m. in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with a Prayer Service to be held at 6:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to honor Joe in designated ways. Express condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.