Dr. Lawrence J. Ginestra 1934—2020
Larry completed his final journey home on Monday, June 1, 2020 surrounded by his family. Born in Dallas Texas, Larry moved to Rockford when he was three and raised his family in Rockford being away from his hometown for only two brief stints – once during his college years (University of Illinois undergrad and Marquette University for dental school) and during his service in the Navy (San Diego, CA). Larry married Jo Corona in 1956 and was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church. Larry practiced dentistry during his 40+ year career in South Rockford, the neighborhood where he was raised. Larry was an Illinois State / Northeast Regional Dental Examiner and kept busy with many outside business ventures.
Larry had a 'joie de vivre' unlike many and embraced life with full force. He loved to fish, be outdoors, sing songs off key and predict the stock market. You were always sure to have a good time and many laughs when you were with Larry. When it came down to what really mattered, Larry took ultimate joy in celebrating with his family and friends, usually centered around a lovingly-prepared meal and a good pool party. He will be forever remembered as one-of-a-kind and missed beyond words.
Larry is survived by his beloved wife, Jo; his daughters Phyllis Ginestra, LuAnn (Nunzio) Canale, Laurie (Martin) Maggio; his grandchildren, Michael Maggio, Jack (Monica) Canale, Joe (Karley) Canale, Trevor Smith, Jordan (Nick) Barbaria, Mac Smith, Brendan Smith; his great-grandchild Francesca Canale; his beloved Brother Philip 'Buzz' (Marian) Ginestra, Sisters Tressa (Gary) Anderson and Kathy (Joe) Guzzardo. During this past year, we would like to thank Nurse Practitioner Heather Hartman, our angel, for the special care given to Larry, Jo and the girls. She will forever be part of our family. Larry was preceded home by his parents, Sam and Phyllis Ginestra and his parents-in-law, Sam and Lucy Corona.
Due to COVID-19 social distancing requirements, the funeral services will be private. The family asks for your prayers and for you to remain safe during this very difficult time for the planet. Share on-line condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.

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Published by Rockford Register Star from Jun. 2 to Jun. 7, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Lawrence Ginestra

Sponsored by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory LTD - Mulford Chapel.

11 Entries

Paul Pirrello

May 27, 2021

When I first met Larry, I was petrified of dentists due to a terrible military experience. Larry, and his beautiful wife, No got me through that and restored my trust. We also went fishing a couple times. Always had a good time with him. He had a way of waiting until he had both hands in my mouth until he would ask me a question :-) I always told him that with those fat fingers, it was good he wasn't a brain surgeon. I miss his fun loving style.

Chuck & Mary Lou white

June 8, 2020

Chuck and Larry went to high school together. As married couple we have nice memories together. Blessings and love to the family

ron bergman

June 8, 2020

Jo and family. So sorry to find out about your loss of Larry. He was always a kind man and a good friend no matter how long it had been since we had seen each other. Interesting that I was speaking about him with a friend about 2-3 weeks ago, and his passion for spreading the word of Jesus as far back as the 1980s. He was a true example of what we all are called to do to spread the Gospel. My prayers have been with and for him and all of you. As you know, I lost Carole about 5 1/2 years ago, so I know that it has to be so very hard for you. My prayers continue. Blessings.

John & Joanne Fricano

June 7, 2020

Condolences to the Ginestra family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Eternal rest grant into him oh Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him.

AnnaMaria Laudicina-Ashcraft

June 6, 2020

He was a great dentist when we were younger and stopping to have our teeth done. Our condolences to the family.

Lynn Przytulski

June 4, 2020

Sending my deepest sympathy to Phyllis and her entire family. We have lost touch but I think of you so often. I always enjoyed the time I spent with you and your family. Such wonderful memories. Sincerely,
Lynn (Castegnaro) Przytulski

Rebecca Greenwood

June 4, 2020

Jo, I am so sorry to hear of Larry's passing. I think of you and your family so often and so sorry we have lost touch. You have been a wonderful friend to me as we raised our families. I will be praying for you and the girls during this difficult time. Sending much love to you. Becki

Mary-Louise Gaziano/DeCastris

June 3, 2020

ear Jo and family,
Offering my very, sincere sympathy In your time of grieving your beloved Larry.
May God grant him eternal peace and comfort you for your loss.

Melody Genore-Roccaforte

June 3, 2020

Lori my prayers go out to you and your family in this difficult time. May you hold fond memories close to your heart and allow yourself time to mourn this loss. Hugs to you Mel Genore-Roccaforte

PAUL L PIRRELLO

June 3, 2020

Larry restored my faith in dentists after a horrible military experience. I enjoyed my time spent with him, especially when fishing. He always asked me a question when I had a mouthful of his fingers. Probably on purpose. My sincere feelings of sorrow to his family in this sorrowful time. My prayers an thoughts go with you all.

John Leggero

June 3, 2020

Rest in Peace Dr. Ginestra I remember to this day my first dental appointment with you in the late 50's

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