Barry "Chico" Corsolini

1951 - 2023

Barry 'Chico' Corsolini
Born: May 7, 1951
Died: January 27, 2023
Barry "Chico" Corsolini, 71, of Ottawa passed away early Friday, January 27, 2023.
Cremation has been accorded and a memorial visitation will be on Saturday, February 4th at Barto Funeral Home in Spring Valley, IL from 9:00 AM until 12:00 PM. The Ladd American Legion Honor Guard will conclude the visitation with military honors at 12:00 PM. A celebration of Chico's life will also be scheduled in the future.
Chico was born on May 7, 1951, to Goldie and Boopa Corsolini of Ladd, IL. He was the oldest of 6 siblings: Rich Corsolini, Kris (Ray) Marenda, Lisa (Mark) Hoffert, Maria (Mark "Bergy") Bergagna, and Mary (TJ) Zecca; and a proud member of the "Outlaws" with Barb (Mike) McGrogan and big brother to Beth (McGrogan) Melvin.
Chico graduated from Hall High School, Class of 1969. He married Lorie Fusinato. He played for the Illinois Valley Rugby club for several years. He then joined the Illinois National Guard and was stationed in Fort Lewis, WA. After being honorably discharged, he returned to the Illinois Valley where he worked as a salesman at Tri-City Hardware.
Chico was most notably a Regional Sales Representative for Mautino Distributing Co. in Spring Valley. His ability to make connections resulted in the initial introduction of Coors Light to the area which remains one of the most popular beers today. In his most recent business adventure, he was part owner of RO Water-Pros water store in Peru. The store was a vital resource for area residents. Chico was very proud of his first business adventure with his good friend, the late Randy Schumacher.
Chico's true passion, when he wasn't meeting new people, was to create. He excelled in home renovations, woodworking, cabinetry, and general contracting. Chico had the ability to see the potential in every project and every person that asked for his services.
Chico married his best friend, Karen (McGrogan) Corsolini on January 16, 2001. They shared many memories and travels together. There were countless good times between the islands with their Shoreline Boat Club friends. They added the "Winnie-dego" to their fleet in recent years which expanded their adventures branching to national parks throughout the country.
Chico was known to all as the mayor of the Illinois Valley. Telling stories and sharing countless laughs. You could hear his voice and laugh above all others at any bar he was at. He was a father figure to many and tried as hard as he could to keep his kids in line. Most notably ripping an unkempt shirt off of Matt in a bar and giving him his own shirt. Chico was shirtless in the bar for only a moment until getting another one.
He loved being "Papa" to all of his grandkids. Giving rides on his lawn mower and hosting pool parties in the summer. He was always a phone call away when the kids needed any advice or tutorials on home improvement projects. He jumped at the chance to help with doctors' appointments, school pick up/drop off, and to help "Gigi" babysit.
Chico is survived by his wife Karen, of Ottawa; his 5 children Jason (Michelle) Corsolini of Ottawa, IL, Matt (Amy) Corsolini of Spring Valley, IL, Angela (Landon) Jakse of Houston, TX, Celeste (Tyler) McGrogan of Chicago, IL, and Zac (Sebby) McGrogan of Ottawa, IL; 9 grandchildren: Alayna, Gianna, Anna Maria, Jaden, Logan, Hunter, Ryker, Avery, and Atlee; as well as his five siblings and his in-laws.
He is preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law Larry McGrogan.
In lieu of flowers and plants, the family kindly requests donations for a memorial to be established to a charity in the future.
A guestbook may be signed and memories shared with the family by visiting bartofh.com.