Obituary of Eugene N. Cornolo
Eugene N. Cornolo
“Gene”
Eugene N. Cornolo, passed away at the age of 89 on Sunday, January 17, 2021, at the Joliet Area Community Hospice. He was born in Joliet, IL, on December 25, 1931 to the union of Joseph and Christina (nee Rigoni) Cornolo. Gene grew up in the Lockport area and graduated from St. Dennis School, Lockport High School, and attended the University of Illinois. He answered the call of patriotism to his country and served proudly in the United States Army during the Korean War. He earned the Korean Service Ribbon, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Republic of Korea Presidential Unit Citation.
Gene retired as an Insurance Agent who owned Cornolo Insurance and Travel in Lockport since 1956. When he wasn’t serving his clients, he loved to be near the water with a fishing pole in his hand. His most cherished time was the time he spent with his family.
Always one to be involved, he was an active member of his community. Gene helped start the first school board at St. Dennis School, was a member of Civic and Commerce Association, the Lockport Chamber of Commerce, the Lions Club, Knights of Columbus, Lockport Rotary, and the American Legion. In 1974 he was elected the Director of the Bank of Lockport and was formerly on the Board of Directors for BMO Harris National Bank. Gene was also a parishioner of St. Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Plainfield, IL.
Gene is survived by his significant other of more than 35 years, Lou Ann Dawkins; his children, James Cornolo, Mary (Mitchell) Cornolo Flomenhoft, Lisa (Barney) Cornolo Caris, Patrick (Kelly) Cornolo, Gregory Dawkins, and Wendy (Brian) Crane; grandchildren, A.J. Caris, Bella Cornolo, Nicky Caris, Devin (Kylee) Mazur, Danielle (Ryan) Daly, and Aiden Crane; great grandchildren, Kolton Gerth, Rowan Daly, Hadlee Stierlen, and Sunny Mazur; and his sister, Corrine (William) Davis. Numerous nieces and nephews also survive.
He is preceded by his parents and his siblings, William (Betty) Cornolo and Marilyn (William) Gestel.
Funeral Services for Eugene N. Cornolo will be held privately by the family. Inurnment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in his name to the Joliet Area Community Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431, would be appreciated. For more information, please call 815-741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
