ROCHELLE — Leo James Gildea, age 87, passed away on Saturday, November 23, 2024 at his home with his family at his side.  He was born on April 11, 1937 in Harrisburg, PA, the son of James and Beatrice (Walsh) Gildea.  Leo served in the U.S. Army and then earned his Master’s Degree from Seton Hall University.  He retired as an executive at Caron International.  Leo married Diane Sondgeroth on November 9, 1989 in Oregon, IL.  He was an avid reader and golfer, a huge fan of Duke and Notre Dame, and loved spending time with his family, especially attending all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren’s activities and sporting events. 

Leo is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Thomas Gildea, and step-daughter, Jennifer Reints.  The family would like to thank the Rochelle Fire Department and Serenity Hospice for their amazing care while assisting them in their frequent times of need.  

Survived by his wife, Diane Gildea, five children: Susan (Butch) Ross of Rockford, IL, Leo A. Gildea of Sheridan, IL, Lisa (David) Hardcastle of Rochelle, Jenifer (David) Askeland of Rochelle, and Cynthia Gildea of Rochelle; step son, Christopher (Kristine) Sondgeroth of Rochelle; 11 grandchildren: Austin, Michael, Joshua, Emily, Bailey, Morgan, Zackery, Alexandra, Tyler, Faith, and Noah; nine great grandchildren; sister, Lois Weisse of Waterford, MI; and his dear nieces and nephews: Eileen, Michelle, Don and Frank.

Visitation will be from 5:00 - 7:00 P.M., Friday, November 29, 2024 at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N 6th St., Rochelle.  Funeral mass will be at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 30, 2024 at St. Patrick Catholic Church with Father Jesus Dominguez officiating.  Cremation rites will follow services.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Serenity Hospice and Home or to an animal shelter of your choice.  Guest book at www.UngerHorner.com.