Rosemary Handel Geraghty

ROSEMARY HANDEL GERAGHTY, 86 Rosemary Handel Geraghty, 86, Rockford, died at 9:57 a.m. Wednesday, August 8, 2007 in her home surrounded by her family following a short illness. Born July 8, 1921 in Savanna, IL, the daughter of Frank and Lena Schunder Handel. The family moved to Rockford in 1929. Attended Muldoon High School, graduated from Rockford Central High School and St. Anthony School of Nursing, continuing her education at the University of Illinois. Married Joseph T. Geraghty, Jr. on September 16, 1950. Rosemary was a VNA visiting nurse for many years. She also worked along with her husband in many ventures including Midway Sales and Geraghty Industrial Equipment. Rosemary helped establish the gift shop at Provena St. Anne Center, volunteered at Midway Village Museum, the St. Patrick Food Pantry and was on the board of Rockvale Childrens Home. She also helped establish the library at St. Bridget School, was a benefactor to many students at the Cathedral of St. Peter and several other charities. Rosemary was a parishioner of Holy Family Church. Survivors include her husband of 56 years, Joseph T. Geraghty, Jr; son, Joseph T. (Jeanette) Geraghty, III; grandchildren, Todd and Tina Geraghty all of Rockford; sisters, Janet Campbell, Rockford and Cherrie (Ralph) Grimes, Scottsdale, AZ; sisters-in-law, Ann Geraghty, Rockford and Phyllis Geraghty, Florida. Also survived by several beloved nieces and nephews who were all deeply touched by her love. Predeceased by her parents, sister, Natalie Redmond, brothers, Bernard Handel and Jason Handel. The family would like to thank OSF St. Anthony Hospice and a special thank you to Victoria Ciceri for all the special care given to Rosemary. A funeral mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 14, 2007 in Holy Family Catholic Church with Rev. Msgr. Thomas E. Bales officiating. Visitation from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m on Monday in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, with a Rosary to be recited at 7:15 p.m. A visitation will also be held from 11:30 a.m. until time of the funeral mass at the church on Tuesday. Memorials may be made to OSF St. Anthony School of Nursing or to the Cathedral of St. Peter School. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.