Rosemary J. Szidon
PEORIA - Rosemary J. Szidon was called home to her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, after 90 years of life. She will be reunited with her beloved husband, Richard J. Szidon.
Rosemary was born and raised in Bradford, IL, to Doyle and Margaret Johnston and grew up surrounded by lots of close and extended family members. She began her working life as a clerk for Standard Oil in Peoria, IL, which led to her being introduced to her future husband. After being married in Chillicothe, IL, on October 20, 1956, Rosemary and Richard, or “R & R” as they would refer to themselves in cards and letters, spent time in Peoria and Pekin, IL, before settling in Peoria permanently.
Rosemary was a devoted mother who showered her three children with unwavering love and care. Blessed with children later in life, allowed her to act as a beloved “Aunt Rose” to numerous nieces and nephews, preceding her own venture into motherhood. She was a proud Irish-Catholic woman with a quick wit and a sharp tongue.
Rosemary took as much joy in being a grandmother as she did in being a mother. Whether visiting her grandchildren at their homes or hosting them at hers, she was known for her warmth and famous chocolate chip cookies. Her love and guidance will continue to inspire her children, grandchildren and generations to come.
With a life centered around family, faith and service to others, Rosemary was a founding member of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Peoria, where she had been active in numerous roles for well over 50 years. When not keeping a close eye on her neighbors, Rosemary was a passionate reader and fixture at weekday Mass, to which she would often walk.
Rosemary was the cherished mother of Julia (Christopher) von Gries of Bettendorf, IA, Matthew (Jennifer) Szidon of Peoria, IL, and Daniel (Michele) Szidon of Milwaukee, WI. She was treasured by her seven grandchildren, Alex (Sarah) von Gries, Megan (Jake) Krupowicz, Olivia (Daniel) Murphy, Abby (Tyler) Szidon, Max von Gries, Hope Szidon and Jake Szidon. She is also survived by her sister, Jane Anne Morrissey; and many nieces, nephews and loved ones.
Rosemary was preceded in death by her parents; her loving husband; and four sisters, Betty Phelps, Joyce Shane, Jean Panczak and Helen Crooks.
A visitation will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 22, 2023, at Wright & Salmon Mortuary. A funeral Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, October 23, 2023, at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church. Additional visitation will be 30 minutes prior to the mass. Father Stephen Willard will officiate and burial will follow in St. John’s Cemetery in Bradford at 2 p.m.
Preferred memorials in Rosemary’s memory may be made to St. Vincent de Paul Parish.
Friends and family are encouraged to log onto www.wrightandsalmon.com to sign the online guestbook, submit photos and share Rosemary’s memorial page via social media.
Funeral arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright & Salmon Mortuary, 309-688-4441.