Giuseppe Cosimo

Giuseppe Cosimo, 90, of Oswego, IL, passed away peacefully at home on August 28, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones-and likely wondering why they were all just standing around and not eating something.

Born January 2, 1935, in Calabria, Italy, Giuseppe arrived into the world with the flair of someone destined to celebrate every birthday with fireworks. He immigrated to Cicero, Illinois in 1972, bringing with him a thick accent, and a zest for life that could only be matched by his culinary and gardening skills.

Giuseppe had a big personality, a bigger heart, and a never-ending supply of stories-most of which may or may not have been entirely true. He proudly served in the Italian Army and worked as a railroad mechanic and a blacksmith in Italy. Once in the U.S., he added pipe fitter, restaurant manager at Hawthorne Racetrack, fabricator and installer of outdoor advertising billboards, and, eventually, beloved Jewel cashier to his resume. He happily worked until the age of 83, charming customers with his big personality.

He was a master wine maker, a fierce competitor in bocce ball, a great gardener who treated his tomatoes like royalty, and a dancer who could make any party better. But it was in the kitchen where he truly shined. Rolling out pizza dough by hand, frying eggplant with finesse and feeding anyone who walked through his door, Giuseppe's meals were legendary and always came with seconds (and thirds).

Giuseppe was a loving father to Angelo (Kelly), Franco, Giulia (John), and stepfather to David (Lisa), Danny (Judy), Doug (Kristen), Debbie (Mark), and Donna. He adored them all, but everyone knew his heart belonged to his cherished granddaughter, Giulianna, his "beautiful girl." He also leaves behind a host of step-grandchildren-Lauren, Stephanie, Steve, Michael, Brandon, Emily, Brian, and Casey-along with his brothers Martino and Tristano, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who will miss his generous spirit, booming laughter, and stubborn debates about how to make wine.

He was preceded in death by his parents Francesco and Carolina, his brother Salvatore, his sister Giulia, and his wives-Bernadine, Rose, and Angelina-each of whom surely had something to say about seeing him again so soon.

Giuseppe lived fully, loved fiercely, and never met a stranger-only future friends who hadn't yet tried his cooking. He will be remembered for his warmth, humor, and that unmistakable sparkle in his eye when someone asked, "Giuseppe, what's for dinner?"

In his honor, raise a glass of homemade wine, eat some pasta, plant a tomato, or dance in your kitchen. That's exactly what he'd want you to do.

Family and friends will gather on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at St. Anne Catholic Church 551 Boulder Hill Pass Oswego, IL 60543 where a Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 A.M. Interment will be at Queen of Heaven Cemetery 1400 S. Wolf Road Hillside, IL 60162. We will meet at the Main Gate and go in procession for the committal service. A Celebration of Life will be scheduled at a later date. For Information, 630-554-3888 or visit his memorial; page at www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com