Matthew J. Bacino

Matthew J. Bacino, 81, of Rockford, passed away February 17, 2018 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born October 5, 1936, in Rockford, the son of Joseph & Mary (Spinello) Bacino. Graduated from West High School, class of 1954. Married his best friend and true love Pat Ritter in Rockford on May 5, 1956. Matt retired from Sundstrand as a Manager of their Graphic Arts Department after over 35 years. Member of St. Rita Catholic Church for nearly 50 years. Matt was an avid Green Bay Packers fan and loved his L.A Dodgers (go "Dodger Blue")! Matt spent his entire life devoted to the happiness of his entire family always making sure that they were "happy"! Matt also enjoyed bird watching, fishing (especially in Green Lake, WI), collecting coins, movies and traveling. Matt treated his wife and family to an unforgettable vacation in Hawaii, took his wife on a special Alaskan cruise as well taking his entire family on a 50th Wedding Anniversary cruise to the Caribbean.
Those who knew Matt adored his great sense of humor, as he was a practical joker on occasion and was always looking for a reason to make those around him smile. In addition, Matt loved all Nuns in general and loved to give them hugs. But most of all he was a faithful, sincere, loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend to many.
Survivors include his beloved wife of 61 years Pat; sons, Gary (Melanie) and Gregory (Teresa) Bacino; grandchildren David (Amanda) and their children Owen and Claire, Michael (Lindsay) and their children Dylan and Emily, Matteo Bacino, Gregorio Bacino, Amanda Stinnett and Jessica Canovali; brothers Ted Bacino of Palm Springs, Ca. and Tom (Sandy) Bacino of Rockford; numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Predeceased by parents; infant son Alan; brother Joseph; sisters Josephine and Marilyn.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff of OSF Home Care, especially Zetta and Sue; and to dear friends and neighbors Bob (Pam) Schuckmell for all their care and support.
Mass will be 11 a.m. Thursday, February 22, 2018 at St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 6254 Valley Knoll Dr, Rockford with Msgr. Eric Barr officiating. Visitation from 9:30 am until time of mass. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108 – Send online condolence at www.fitzgeraldfh.com