Gertrude Vaccarella, 96, of Kenosha, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 17, 2022, at her home, surrounded by family.
Born on January 9, 1926, in Kenosha, WI, she was the daughter of the late Chester and Alice (Geary) Genack.
She was educated in the schools of Kenosha, Frank Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, McKinley Jr. High, and was a 1972 graduate of Vocational School of Nursing. On September 18, 1943, Gertrude married Leonard Vaccarella at Holy Rosary Church in Kenosha. She was a salesclerk for Montgomery Wards, then a Licensed Practical Nurse at Kenosha Memorial Hospital for 10 years, retiring in 1984.
Gertrude was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church and the Women’s Society of the Church, Catholic Order of Foresters, past president of Frank School P.T.A. from 1957/1958, “Noble Grand” Rebekah’s Ladies Auxiliary, held several offices and chairs in the Women of the Moose Chapter #155 and was musician there, member of VFW Junker Ball Post #1865, AARP, and Senior Action Council. But at best, she was a homemaker and caregiver for her family which was her favorite.
She is survived by her daughter, Marie Serpe; step-sister, Julie Carrasco; sister-in-law, Rosa; grandchildren, Lisa (Daniel) Becker and Anthony (Cindy) Serpe; great grandchildren, Hunter, Kaitlyn, Sophia, and Niko; and many nieces and nephews.
Along with her parents and husband, Gertrude was preceded in death by her sons, Leonard Jr. and Michael Vaccarella; siblings, Jack, Margie, Chet, Mariam, Jim, and Scott.
Visitation will be on Monday, September 26, 2022, at Proko Funeral Home from 3:00 p.m. until the time of service at 5:00 p.m. Interment will be private, but she will be at rest in St. George Cemetery.
A special thank you to Dr. Paukner and staff for many years of compassionate care, Aurora at home staff, the Palliative care staff, and Aurora hospice especially Jen, Kate, Lindsey, and Candace. Thank you to all the friends and family for the continued support.