Josephine Elizabeth Szyp

Josephine Elizabeth Szyp, 92, of Rockford, IL departed this life peacefully on Friday, November 9, 2018 in her home.

Josephine was born in Hammond, IN on February 3, 1926, daughter of Joseph and Antoinette (Skupien) Cison. She graduated Catholic Central High School in Hammond, IN in 1944. The 13th of 14 children, Josephine discovered a profound love for classical music and opera at an early age and it was that passion that defined her spirit throughout her life. She chose to forego pursuing a career as an operatic soprano (she was quite good) to fall in love and marry Bernard Szyp in 1952. Her nurturing and generous nature led to her calling of teaching children with special needs and behavioral disorders. Called 'Joey' by all who knew her, she raised her children in Calumet City, IL, finally moving to Rockford in 2007 to rejoin her family.

Joey was a vibrant woman with an engaging personality and a warm, genuine smile. The archetypal Polish matriarch, she was an accomplished cook. When asked for recipes, she would say, "You'll just have to watch me and write it down." Her family dinners were legendary and friends and neighbors couldn’t wait for her Holiday cookies. She held intelligent, informed opinions on politics, community affairs and the NFL and enjoyed a friendly verbal spar.

She loved her family best. Whether playing games late into the night or making Christmas the most perfect day of the year for everyone, she loved life and gave of herself at every opportunity.

Joey is survived by her son, David (Jane Gorecki) Szyp; daughter, Karen Szyp; grandchildren, Rachael, Leah and Drake Szyp; devoted caregiver, Victoria Manor Gomashie. She is predeceased by her husband Bernard in 1983 as well as by her 10 sisters and 3 brothers.

Gathering of family and friends will be held on Tuesday, January 15, 2018 from 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. with a prayer at 6:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, IL 61103. A Chicagoland memorial and inurnrment will be scheduled at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens in Crown Point, IN at a later date. The family has requested no gifts be given.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61103. Share online condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com