Joseph Gravagno

Joseph S. Gravagno, 87, of Rockford passed away Monday July 28, 2014 in Rockford Memorial Hospital. He was born September 15, 1926 in Chicago, IL, the son of Diego and Domenica Gravagno. He graduated from Austin High School in Chicago, class of 1944. He served in the Army Air Corp during WWII, received a State of Illinois Meritorious Service Award for serving in WWII. He married Marie F. Jenik on December 18, 1949 in Chicago. Marie predeceased him on February 4, 2011. Joseph worked for WTVO Channel 17 for over 45 years as their #1 cameraman. He was a member of Toastmasters where he won first place in the 1966 Humorous Speech Contest. He played tennis for 30 years at the Clock Tower Racquet Club where he won a first place trophy in 1985. Joseph was community minded, interested in politics and science and tutored children at Carlson Grade School.

Survivors include his 2 daughters, Josette Marie Gravagno of Rockford and Angela Mary Morgan of South Lyon Michigan; grandchildren, Christopher William (Anna) Gravagno of Rockford, Ryan Michael Gravagno of Rockford, Gregory Philip Morgan of South Lyon, and Jared Beem of Wisconsin; great-grandchildren, Darryl William and Kylie Ann. 2 brothers, Emilio (Carol) Gravagno of Radnor, PA and Carmelo Gravagno of Murfreesboro, TN. Predeceased by his parents, wife Marie, daughter Annette Beem, brother Enrico Gravagno.

Memorial Service at 11am Saturday August 2, 2014 in Salem Lutheran Church 1629 S. 6th St. Rockford, Illinois 61104 with Pastor Bill Dahlberg officiating. Visitation from 10am until service time Saturday in the church. Luncheon to follow. Arrangements completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home Riverside Chapel. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com