Gino Reali

In Loving Memory of Gino Reali Gino was the kind of person everyone seemed to know. When he walked into a room, he either made a new friend or found someone he already knew — whether he was in Rockford, Illinois, or his beloved hometown of Ferentino, Italy.

 Born on October 7, 1926, in Ferentino, Gino grew up surrounded by history, tradition, and a close-knit community. It was there he met Palma, the love of his life, and on February 18, 1947, they were married. Their partnership would last a remarkable 78 years — a lifetime of shared dreams, adventures, and devotion. 

In 1952, Gino and Palma made the brave decision to move their young family to America, carrying with them the hope of building a strong foundation for generations to come. Gino poured his hard work and heart into creating Reali Excavating, the family business that became one of his greatest sources of pride. 

Though America became his home, Gino’s heart always beat in tune with Italy. He returned often, eager to walk the streets of his pre-Roman hometown, to tell the stories of his youth, and to keep alive the traditions that shaped him. In Rockford, he worked to share that heritage with others as a founding member of the Rockford Italian Sister Cities Alliance. He and his family spent countless days teaching Italian customs, volunteering at Festa Italiana, and even hosting exchange students from Italy — always opening their home and hearts. 

Gino lived 98 years filled with purpose, love, and joy. Those who knew him will remember a man who could be counted on for a captivating story, a garden that could take your breath away, a lesson worth learning, a laugh worth sharing, a perfectly chosen glass of wine, and a love that seemed limitless. 

He is survived by His devoted wife, Palma; His children, Mario (Ann), Anna (Jim), and Gina (Peter); His grandchildren, Michael (Stephanie), Laura, and Raquel — each of them the pride and joy of his life.

 Memorial service to be held at St Rita’s Church, Rockford, IL on October 7 which would have been Gino’s 99th Birthday at 11 AM with luncheon following. 

In Lieu of Flowers Please send donations to: Rockford Italian Sister Cities Alliance RISCA 6054 Sweet Grass Drive Roscoe, IL 61073 Or make a donation online at: ourrisca.org