Maria Mullen

Maria Mullen, 66, passed away at home surrounded by her loved ones on September 24, 2024, in Rockford, Illinois. Born in Roccamena, Sicily on March 7, 1958, daughter to Gaspare and Francesca (Fasullo) Artale. At a very young age Maria and her family moved to Rockford, Illinois where she attended St. Anthony Grade School and Boylan Catholic High School, graduating in 1976. In her 27 years of employment with Eagle Foods she met the love of her life at work, Bill Mullen, and they wed in St. Anthony on July 10, 1982. They had two children who became Maria’s world; as they grew and started sports, Maria learned to love the sports they played, and never missed a game. She showed that same love and devotion to her grandchildren too. Being Nonna to Liam and Layla was her greatest joy. She also enjoyed spending time with her siblings, nieces and nephews.

She will be missed by those who loved her most, her husband of 42 years, Bill; her children Melissa (Joe) and Billy (Kerry); her grandchildren Liam and Layla; her siblings Rose Ciaccio, Joe (Linda), and sister-in-law Lucy; nieces and nephews Nino, Anthony (Alyssa), and Susie (Ryan); great nieces and nephews Alivia, Lulu, Alyas, and Izze. She is predeceased by her parents; her brother Tony and brother-in-law Leo Ciaccio.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Funeral Mass, 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1010 Ferguson St, Rockford, IL 61102. Burial to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. A very special thank you to City of Hope, especially to Anna and Michelle, for all the love, care and compassion they showed to Maria and the family. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.