Irene Penzi

Irene M. Penzi, 90 ROCKFORD - Irene Maria Penzi, 90, passed away at 7:22 p.m. Thursday, May 12, 2011, in her home. She was born Jan. 31, 1921, in Fanna, Italy, the daughter of Luigi and Virginia (Pasinato) DeMarco. She married Gino Penzi in Fanna on July 12, 1947; he died Jan. 22, 1989. They immigrated to the U.S. in 1952 and settled in Rockford. She was a member of St. James Church. Irene was devoted to her family and enjoyed cooking and gardening. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren were an extremely important part of Irene's life. They lovingly referred to her as "Nonni." Survivors include daughters, Grace Rathke of Rockford and Lory (Keith) Cavanagh of Bettendorf, Iowa; grandchildren, Kim (Geoff) Carlson and David (Katey) Rivera, both of Rockford, Marcus Cavanagh, Steven Cavanagh, and Anthony Cavanagh, all of Bettendorf; great-grandchildren, Grant and Mia Carlson of Rockford; several nieces and nephews; and a host of loving and caring family, neigh-bors, and friends. Irene was also predeceased by her parents; her brothers, Alfred and Mario; and a daughter, Gloria. Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 17, in St. James Catholic Church, 428 N. Second St., with visitation from 9 a.m. to service time. Father Dean Russell, pastor, will celebrate. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements by Sundberg Funeral Home Ltd., 215 N. Sixth St. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 16, in the funeral home, with rosary at 7 p.m. Memorials may be directed to St. James Church or school or Passages Hospice. Condolences may be made at sundbergfh.com.