Jeannie Mantello
08/28/1949 - 04/04/2024
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Obituary For Jeannie Mantello
Jeannie Mantello of Rockford, Illinois passed away on Thursday, April 4th, 2024 at UW-Swedish American Hospital surrounded by her family at the age of 74. Jeannie was born on August 28th, 1949. She is the daughter of George and Lois Novak. Jeannie is a past graduate of Boylan Central Catholic High School, class of 1967. She was married to Robert Mantello for over 40 years and was officially married to him on March 24th, 1984.
Survivors include her husband, Robert Mantello, daughters, Christa Crumb (Jeanne Reece), and Janna Cox (Brad Cox) and son, Salvatore Mantello. Grandchildren include William Dammon, Alex Cox, and Adam Cox. Siblings, Karen St. John, Billy (Joyce) Novak, Michael Novak. Brother and sister-in-laws Rich (Judy)Mantello, Lucy Mantello, and Mary DeMarco. Predeceased by her parents, Lois and George Novak, brother, George Novak, and sisters Rita DiVenti and Mary Worthly. Deceased in-laws Frank Mantello, Sante DeMarco, Jack St. John, Barb Novak, as well as nieces Tammy Mantello, Dawn Arnold, and nephew Danny Arnold.
Jeannie had a closeness with her entire family and had a huge extended family. Her grandchildren, which she especially doted on, all lovingly called her “Gigi”. She had a way of always making people feel special. If you met Jeannie once, she called you her friend. She loved to garden in her flower beds. She would often get to the greenhouse stores early in the spring season to pick out the most unique plants and flowers. Jeannie’s one-of-a-kind taste in artwork as well as collectibles can be seen throughout her entire home. She was also known for finding choice picks at the estate sales that she frequented on Fridays with her brother, Michael, and sister, Karen. Jeannie had an impressive knack for cooking, gathering and entertainment. Everyone was welcomed at the table. She loved to cook her family's favorite birthday dishes. If you ever met Jeannie, you knew that she loved music and a good dance party. Some of her favorite acts include: Prince, David Bowie, George Michael, Boz Skaggs, Barbara Streisand, Anita Baker, Stevie Wonder, Luther Vandross, The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. Her love of music was appreciated by all of her friends and family.
Jeannie was a devoted catholic. During her decade-long battle with cancer, her strong faith gave her strength and courage. Just as her mother Lois, Jeannie found gratitude in saying the rosary. Jeannie’s family would like to give special thanks to the following: the PCU unit at UW Swedish American Hospital; Jane from Palliative care for her guidance and support; UIC’s residency team; Northern Illinois Hospice; and the special care Dr. Mardini’s team at the Cancer Center gave our Mother over the years. We also would like to give special attention as well as appreciation to Jeannie’s loving husband Bobby, who nobly cared for her during this decade-long journey with cancer. Jeannie did not want to leave this earth, but we find peace in knowing that she is being greeted by God with rejoicing and loving arms.
Memorial Mass at 11:00 am Monday, April 15, 2024, in St Anthony of Padua Church 1010 Ferguson Street with Father Carl Beekman officiating. Visitation from 1:00 pm until 4 pm Sunday, April 14 in Tony Gasparini Chapel, 6825 Weaver Road, Rockford. Visitation is also from 10 am until 10:45 Monday in the church.
Services
Visitation
01:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Visitation
10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
Memorial Mass
11:00 AM
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Condolences
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04/25/2024
So sorry to hear of my friend's passing. God bless Jeannie. May she rest in the arms of angels. Our deepest sympathy to to Bobbie and the entire family. Love, Kathye & Tony Piccirilli
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04/15/2024
Bob, so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Phyllis Hogue
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04/14/2024
Sorry to hear sending our condolence to you and your family Let God's grace comfort you during this difficult time Nancy Brown from your favorite place play slots
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04/13/2024
Jeannie had the best parties. If you didn't have fun that's your fault. You will be missed dear girl!
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04/11/2024
RIP Jeannie Novak.
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04/10/2024
With our deepest sympathy for Jeannie's entire family. We are thinking of you all during this painful time. [Lee Ann Buscemi's daughter and son-in-law]
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04/10/2024
I worked with Jeannie for many years--she was a good person and always dependable. My condolences to the family Sincerely, Mark Kofron
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04/10/2024
Jeannie, you were a true friend. I remember coming to see you at UW Hospital 10 years ago. It doesn't seem like that long. I will miss you at all the family events going forward. God Bless you! Dennis
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04/10/2024
I'm so sorry to hear of Jeannie's passing. She had to be one of the nicest people I've ever met. May your fond memories of her be a solace during this difficult time. -Chuck Falzone and family
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04/10/2024
My condolences go out to Jeannie's family and friends. This is a sad day for sure, but I'm happy that she will no longer have to suffer from the pain of this dreadful disease. Jeannie was my girlfriend way back when she was 13 years old. She called me sucker for whatever reason. We recently shared texts and she claimed I called her sucker. Anyway, she was a little doll. RIP dear friend.
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04/10/2024
Jean was a wonderful, caring ally for so many. We are so sorry for your loss.
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04/10/2024
Forever in my heart ❤️. I will miss my dear friend. Nan Fitzpatrick.
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04/09/2024
My deepest sympathy to all of you 🩵 Jeannie was very special and one of a kind !! We will all miss her! Fond memories of our Boylan days and keeping in touch over the years. Much love 🩵 Lucille Arbisi Barthelman
Tributes
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Jennifer Maas planted 10 trees in memory of Jeannie Mantello . - 04/14/2024
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Melissa Ernst sent The Peace Lily for Jeannie Mantello - 04/13/2024
Sending loving thoughts from the Ernst family to yours.
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Red and White Floor Basket was sent for Jeannie Mantello - 04/12/2024
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Leslie Walter sent Small Garden Dish for Jeannie Mantello - 04/12/2024
We are so sorry for your loss. In our prayers. Leslie, Peyton & Jared
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Living Spirit Dishgarden was sent for Jeannie Mantello - 04/12/2024
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Beautiful Dreams was sent for Jeannie Mantello - 04/11/2024
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Radiant Foliage Planter was sent for Jeannie Mantello - 04/10/2024
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Kristofer B Cox sent Garden of Memories for Jeannie Mantello - 04/10/2024
Our Deepest Condolences for your Loss. -Mendota District 289 & Board of Education
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Amanda Winters sent Heartfelt Memories for Jeannie Mantello - 04/10/2024
Sending you love. We are so sorry for your loss. Amanda and Brad Winters
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