Joseph P. Gaspari

Joseph P. Gaspari, 80 a life long resident of Rockford, died on Friday, August 31, 2007 in his home surrounded by his loving family after a long illness. Born August 3, 1927 the son of Francis and Mary (Brackett) Gaspari. Attended West High School and served in the United States Air Force. Married his loving wife Shirley Fitzgerald on Feb. 14, 1953 in St. Mary Catholic Church. Worked for 38 years as a machinist for Mechanics-Borg Warner and Septran for 27 years.. A member of St. Bernadette Catholic Church and a former member of the Venetian Club. Joseph was an avid sports fan and loved watching his children and grandchildrens sporting events. His greatest pleasure in life was being able to spend time with his family. The family wishes to extend a heart felt thank you to Northern Illinois Hospice, especially Kelly Ray Morris, Linda Loner, Pam Maher and Martha Dowdakin Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Shirley; children, Michael (Marcia) of Batavia, Marilyn (Richard) Ludwig, Joann (David) Liskey both of Rockford and Kathleen (Mark) Christensen of Cherry Valley; grandchildren, Nicholas, Andrea, Jacquleen, Ryan, Annie, Jenna, Joe, Kevin, Mary and Noel; sister Mary Lou (Max) Stewart of Michigan; nieces Laura (Paul) Ledwidge and Cheri (Brian) Luellen; nephew, William (Angell) Stewart; sister-in-law, Marilyn Fitzgerald and several special friends and neighbors. Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2007 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church with Rev. Monsignor John J. Mitchell officiating. Visitation will be held on Monday, Sept. 3 from 5-7 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel 3910 N. Rockton Ave. with a rosary service to be recited at 7 p.m. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center or Boylan Catholic High School.