Ciro Varriale

Ciro Varriale, of Lockport, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at the age of 82, after a courageous six-year battle with kidney disease requiring dialysis.

Born on December 24, 1943, in Italy to Carmine Varriale and Ida (nee Ruggiero) Varriale, Ciro immigrated to the United States with his parents and brother in 1948. The family settled in Chicago's Little Italy neighborhood, where he spent his childhood and built the foundation of the hardworking, loyal, and devoted man he would become.

Ciro lived a life defined by hard work, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family. He proudly served his country in Vietnam and was honorably discharged after his military service, receiving a Medal of Honor. Following his service, he built a long and respected career as a high lift operator with Local 150, where he worked faithfully until his retirement.

Ciro was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen (nee McMillian) Varriale; his father, Carmine Varriale; and his mother, Ida (nee Ruggiero) Varriale.

He was the oldest of 8, and is survived by his loving siblings: Salvatore (the late Theresa) Varriale, Thomas Varriale, Rosemarie (Ron) Meyers, Ida (John) Tylk, Ron (Sherry) Varriale, Camilla (the late David) Holton, and Anne (the late Jeff) Worthington.

He also leaves behind his beloved children: Gerald (Nina) McMillian, Jasmine Williams, Christine Varriale, his loving and devoted daughter, Ida (Matthew) Finnegan, and Victoria (Anthony) Hall, as well as numerous grandchildren who adored him. Ciro's greatest joy was his family, and he treasured every moment spent with those he loved.

Ciro will be remembered for his strength, courage, and resilience. Even during the most difficult times, he faced life's challenges with dignity and determination, showing everyone what a true hero he was. He will also be remembered for his unwavering work ethic, his loyalty, and the deep love he had for his family. His legacy will live on in the lives of those he touched and in the cherished memories shared by all who knew and loved him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family and friends, who loved him dearly.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Kurtz Memorial Chapel, 65 Old Frankfort Way, Frankfort, Illinois.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 255 W. North St., Manhattan, Illinois. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Frankfort, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Ciro's memory.