June 1, 1941 – February 27, 2026
Phyllis Ann “Rickie” Giorno, 84 years old of Whitewater, WI, passed away suddenly on Friday, February 27, 2026, in her home.
She was born June 1, 1941, in Kenosha, WI, the daughter of the late Elton and Beatrice (Drysdale) Richter. In October of 1961, she married her soul mate, John Giorno, who preceded her in death in August of 2017. They truly had a loving, playful relationship through their 56 years of marriage.
Phyllis was a devoted, loving mother & grandmother – she will be remembered for her acceptance, sense of humor, and her famous, “oh well, what do ya do?” response to life’s many challenges. She was a talented cook, always making sure to have food or snacks ready for anyone who might walk in the door. Phyllis loved her animals and being outside gardening – yellow roses from her father-in-law’s garden were her favorite. She kept her mind sharp with word searches, puzzles, and a nightly game of Wheel of Fortune.
Survivors include her children, Lori (Robert) Underhill of Mt. Pleasant, WI, Christine (Leo) Wurzer of Eagle, WI, Roxanne (Steve) Schroeder of Edgar, WI, and Tony (Jill) Giorno of Salem, WI; 13 grandchildren, Jorian, Kamren, Sofia and Grace; Amanda and Johnathan; Morgan; Brittney, Krista and Siara; Kaela, Anthony and Gianna; eleven great-grandchildren; and five siblings, Nancy (the late Carlos) Vestal; Elton (Bonnie) Richter, Jr., Cindy Vasko, Jim Rommelfanger and John Rommelfanger.
In addition to her parents, Phyllis was preceded in death by her son, John “Rocco” Giorno, in 2022, and her sister, Janice (the late Jack) Balma, in 2009.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home, with funeral services commencing at 12:00 noon. Interment will follow in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha, WI.
Events
Visitation
Monday, March 9, 2026
10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Proko Funeral Home & Crematory
5111-60th Street, KENOSHA, WI 53144
Funeral Service
Monday, March 9, 2026
12:00 pm
Proko Funeral Home & Crematory
5111-60th Street, KENOSHA, WI 53144
Officiant: Rev. Charlie Hansen
Final Resting Place
St. George Cemetery
2909 Sheridan Road, KENOSHA, WI 53140
