Genevieve Ragnanese

Genevieve C. Ragnanese of Wood Dale passed away peacefully and surrounded by loved ones on October 26, 2024. She was 96. 

Born to Italian immigrants in Chicago on February 9, 1928, Gen was the daughter of Rosario and Mary DiVincenzo. She married the love of her life, Joseph Ragnanese, Sr. in Chicago on September 28, 1952. The couple resided in Leyden Township where they raised their son, Joseph Jr. An adoring mother, Gen often would surprise their son with trips to KiddieLand Amusement Park and other fun places. Over the course of their 61-year marriage, Gen and Joe Sr. enjoyed traveling, taking many cruises and frequent trips to Las Vegas. In 1986, Gen and Joe relocated to Addison, IL where they enjoyed hosting family for holidays and creating lasting friendships with their neighbors. 

Genevieve was a beloved figure in her community, known for her warmth and generosity. She cherished her role as a grandmother, spoiling her grandson Joseph III with love and attention, accompanying him to Mass twice a week, and creating loving memories with him at the local park. Gen also maintained a tradition of weekly family dinners every Sunday, which became a cherished routine for her loved ones. 

A devout member of St. Philip the Apostle, Gen participated actively in community services and events, reflecting her strong faith and commitment to her community. Her generosity had no bounds as she continued to support her church, and various charities such as St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital, Boys Town, and Padre Pio Foundation throughout her life.

Genevieve was preceded in death by her loving husband, Joseph Sr. and her parents. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Joseph Jr. and Amy Ragnanese; beloved grandson Joseph III and his wife Jessica Ragnanese; brother, Vincent DiVincenzo; nieces, Michelle (Brian) Engel and Denise (David) Olsen, great nephews Tyler and Ryan, and adored Shih Tzu, Daisey. The family thanks the staff of Casa Scalabrini Village and AccentCare Hospice of Naperville for their kind and loving care during Gen’s final days.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Gen’s memory may be made to her parish church, Mary Queen of Heaven, in Elmhurst, IL https://www.mqhelmhurst.org/

Visitation is at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 2, 2024, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church located at 551 N Rush St, Itasca. Followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. Interment at St. Joseph Cemetery. For funeral information: 630-250-8588 or www.oaksfh.com