Leonora A. Rykowski

Leonora A. "Lee" Rykowski, 74, of Beloit, WI, passed away suddenly but peacefully on Sunday, September 7, 2025 at Beloit Memorial Hospital. She was born on February 13, 1951 the daughter of Cyrus and Angie (Martinico) Lucchesi. Lee was a 1969 South Beloit High School graduate. She married her high school sweetheart, John Rykowski on May 12, 1973. He predeceased her on November 7, 2021. Lee was formerly employed by John Rykowski Plumbing. She enjoyed cooking, baking, gardening, horses, feeding and watching the birds. Lee could often be found cheering on the Chicago Cubs and enjoying life in the country. She was proud of her family and loved and gave of herself deeply to all that she cared for. She cherished spending time with her family, as well as her "Thursday Night" family. She loved being an identical twin and having twin grandkids. Lee was the best twin sister, mother, wife, friend, and "aunt Nory" and will be dearly missed. A mother's hug lasts long after she lets go. Survivors include her daughters, Jessica (Justin) Fentress and Jenn Rykowski; granddaughter Riley and grandson Cole Fentress; granddog, Venture; siblings, Linda VanLaningham, Cyrus Lucchesi Jr., and Louie Lucchesi; sister-in-law Susie (Mike) Melton; nieces and nephews, Jamie (Margarita) Lucchesi, Cory (Mindy) Lucchesi, Seth (Christina) Lucchesi, Ian Hoard, and Josie Hoard; great-nieces, Ava, Capri, and Jyanni; great-nephews, Caden and Keegan; beloved extended family, Karen Fulton, Jordon Wickersham, Jared Johnson, Miyoko (John) Kocik, Gina Radke, Tina Scott, and so many others. Lee was predeceased by her parents and brother-in-law, Kal VanLaningham. Lee loved and lived this: People will not remember what you did or say but will remember how you made them feel. "The good you do may be forgotten tomorrow, do good anyway." Mother Teresa A Celebration of Life for Lee will be held at a later date.