Kathleen "Kathy" M. Falzone

Kathleen (Kathy) M. (O’Neil) Falzone, 81, of Morris Chapel, TN, former Cherry Valley resident, went to be with her Lord peacefully on November 29, 2024. 

On November 30, 1942, Kathy was born in Mason City, Iowa to Margaret (White) O'Neil and Carol O’Neil. She moved to Loves Park, IL as a child where she was raised by her mother and stepfather, O.M. “Red” Rasmussen. She later went on to graduate from Harlem High School. Soon after, Kathy married the love of her life, John Falzone, and spent 61 incredible, loving years together. Through those years, Kathy chose to be beside John through all of his endeavors such as Festa Italiana, the bowling business, and bringing the Cherry Valley Garden Center back to life. Within their adventures, Kathy spent her time with John creating a strong family unit based on their example of respect, love, traditions, and strong core values, including Kathy’s infamous pasta Sundays with her children and grandchildren. Kathy was a devoted member of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Rockford, IL where she would stay and enjoy coffee and donuts after Mass with friends. She was active in many activities at the church including being a Eucharistic Minister, helping with luncheons, and being a greeter. Kathy had immense love for the Lord, her husband, her family, close friends, and the simple joys of life. Upon John’s retirement, Kathy and he spent decades vacationing during the winter months in their second home, Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Kathy’s laughter was contagious and her personality was one that radiated to anyone she met. With open arms, Kathy would embrace you with the most comforting hugs and always found the joy, even in life’s toughest moments. Kathy’s greatest accomplishment was her family. She chose to spend her life creating moments to share with her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Kathy loved peaceful mornings with her coffee, bird-watching, puzzles and spending time with her loved ones. 

Kathy was predeceased by her husband, John Falzone; fathers, Carol O’Neil and O.M. “Red” Rasmussen; mother, Margaret Rasmussen; brother, Leroy O’Neil and grandson, Barret (Barry) Falzone. She is survived by her daughters, Bonnie Falzone-Capriola (Brian Martin), Brenda Phillip (Dan); son, Benny Falzone (Kerry); brothers, Roger (Wanda) O’Neil and Ronald O’Neil; 9 grandchildren, Ryan Capriola (Keeley), Barry Capriola (Vee), Joseph Capriola (Michaela), John Phillip (Lizz), Anna Phillip, Anthony Falzone, Kristen Brewer, Brandon Falzone (Becky), Rocsi Falzone and 14 great-grandchildren, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and sister of her heart, Frances Salvato. 

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, January 24, 2025, in the Cathedral of St. Peter preceded by a visitation time at 10:00 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family. The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel. Extend condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.