Jean E. Vitale

Jean E. Vitale, 81, of Rockford, passed away on Thursday, March 21, 2024. Born on July 13, 1942, in Decorah, IA, the daughter of Beatrice (Johnson) Murphy. Jean started her career as a Registered Nurse, and then was the co-owner and operator of the Beef-A-Roo restaurants for over 40 years. In her retirement, she loved to travel the world with her brothers and friends. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren, as well as her friends in her Investment Club.
Survived by her children, Melissa (Ty) Pratt of Santa Fe, NM, Christine (Derek) Bergsten of Timnath, CO, Nick (Nicole) DeBruler of Rockford, Rebecca (Jeff) Erickson of Plainfield, IL, and Roberta (Ryan) Esparza of Rockford; grandchildren, Annabel, Alexandra, Sophie, Jackson, Harrison, Gabrielle, Leo, Henry, Georgia, Sam, Lilian, Ruby and Cruz; and siblings, Phil (Julie) Johnson and Les (Mary Lou) Johnson. Predeceased by her parents.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorials may be made to Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, 946 N 2nd St., Rockford, IL 61107, where Jean was an active member for many years. To share a memory or a condolence, please visit olsonfh.com.