Mary J. Califello

Mary Jean Califello "Gina" (nee Palleschi), age 89, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, October 7, 2015.

Mary is survived by her loving son and caregiver, Gary Califello and loving daughter, Lynda Berrey; grandchildren, Cheryl Frank and Christopher Berrey; great-grandchildren, Aidan Frank and Garrett Berrey; sister, Julie (the late Joseph) Lorenc; numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband, Guery Califello; parents, Carmen and Lucia (nee Pistilli) Palleschi; brothers, Fiorino (Edyth), Larry (Millie) and Richard in infancy; sister, Helen (Michael) Grant.

Gina was born and raised in Rockdale, IL and attended Rockdale Grade School and graduated from Joliet Township High School. After high school she was employed as a secretary in the office of Rockdale Navy Yards and became a seamstress at Montgomery Ward. Gina also sewed for friends, for her children and for church, including costumes for church and school programs. Gina was a parishioner at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rockdale and a member of the C.C.W. She loved animals, especially cats, and was a supporter of the local humane society. She also enjoyed cooking, baking, working crossword puzzles, gardening and flowers. Gina will be dearly missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's name to Presence St. Joseph Hospice would be appreciated.

A Celebration of Mary's life will begin on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 with prayers in the funeral home chapel at 9:20 a.m. then driving in procession to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rockdale for a Mass of Christian Burial to be held at 10:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery in the Romeoville. Visitation will be on Monday, October 12 from at Tezak Funeral Home, 1211 Plainfield Road, Joliet from 4-8 p.m.