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Olson Funeral and Cremation Services, Fred C. Olson Chapel - RockfordRose Callea Obituary
Rose M. Callea, 102, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, November 8, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born September 24, 1923, the daughter of Frank and Digna (Licata) Callea, she was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, cousin and friend.
She was a lifelong resident of Rockford, and a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. She was faithful member of the Altar and Rosary Society and, as a young woman, participated in the church choir.
She spent her decades long career (50 years) as a dedicated secretary for Frank St. Angel's Insurance Agency and remained lifelong friends with Frank and Connie and their children.
In her retirement years, she volunteered at Midway Village and enjoyed hosting holidays with her sister Jennie, with whom she lived for over 90 years. She also enjoyed her frequent phone conversations with her friend Phileann and the delicious pizzelle that she would send her every Christmas.
A special heartfelt thanks to her dedicated and generous caregivers Socorro "Coco", Silvana and Grace who took such loving and exceptional care of her and, especially, for their friendships with her that brought her much joy!
Rose will be greatly missed by her family, friends and all who knew her wonderful, witty and loving spirit.
She is predeceased by her parents; her siblings Jennie Callea, Bennie (Olga Burroughs) Callea, Mary (Vito) Mulé, Joseph (Donna Lea Demico) Callea, Michael (Helen Metz) Callea; and her niece Karin Alt.
She is survived by many nieces and nephews, and their families.
Visitation will be held from 10 to 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. celebrated by her nephew, Rev. Michael B. Callea, M.I.C., and Rev. Carl Beekman. Burial will take place at Calvary Catholic Cemetery with a luncheon following at the parish hall. Memorial offerings may be sent to the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary of Wichita (sistersihmofwichita.org) and/or the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception (Marian.org). Arrangements by Olson Funeral and Cremation Services.
1001 Second Avenue, Rockford, IL 61104
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Upcoming Events
Nov
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Nov
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Services provided by
Olson Funeral and Cremation Services, Fred C. Olson Chapel - Rockford