Obituary

Anthony J. Opengo, 87, passed away in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois on October 18, 2025. He was born on June 11, 1938, son to Emilio and Angeline (Polletto) Opengo. On an ordinary trip to the movie theater when Anthony was just 18, he met who would become his forever Honey, Leonarda “Laura” Rodreguez. They wed just 3 months later on January 12, 1956. Anthony held various jobs throughout his life, working for Mid State Wood Products, Chrysler, and lastly spending 14 years working for Joseph Behrs, retiring in 1984. If Anthony wasn’t at work, he would spend it with his wife and 11 children. He was so very proud of his children and made sure they had everything they needed to succeed in life. He wanted to make sure they all had as much quality time as they could and fond memories for the family include learning from dad how to fish, swim and garden. Even after the kids grew up and started their own families, Anthony could still be found in his yard’s garden beds, casting a pole for his next big fish, or cheering on the Chicago Bears and Cubs.

He will be deeply missed by his Honey of almost 70 years, Laura; their children Joseph, Cindy (Mike), Anthony Jr., Debbie, Penny (Gus), Jeffrey, Larry (Lori), Janet (John), Richard, Pamela (Brenden), and Krisie (Scott); 18 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandsons. He is predeceased by his parents, Emilio and Angeline Opengo; daughter-in-law, Kim Payton; son-in-law, Bernie Bandoli; grandson, Andrew Warren, and sister, Rose (Junior) Wallen.

Visitation will take place on Thursday, October 23, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 1243 N Church St, Rockford, IL 61103. Burial to follow at Scandinavian Cemetery in Rockford. To send condolences online or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com