Marlene Cichella

Marlene Cichella, of Rockton, Illinois, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026, at the age of 91. She was born in Rockford, Illinois, on May 9, 1935, to William and Bernice (Kondratowicz) Baker.

Marlene was raised in the Rockford area, attending St. Stanislaus Kostka School before graduating from Muldoon High School. Following her education, she entered the workforce and dedicated 30 years of service to Amerock, where she worked as a packer and was known for her strong work ethic and dependability.

A woman of deep faith, Marlene found comfort and strength in her Catholic beliefs and was a committed member of St. Peter Catholic Church in South Beloit. Marlene had an unwavering devotion to the Blessed Mother Mary. She prayed the rosary daily and trusted Mary as a spiritual guide who directs believers closer to Christ. 

Above all else, Marlene cherished her family. She took great joy in watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and thrive, treasuring every moment spent together. She had a creative spirit and enjoyed sewing, crafting, and making beautiful things with her hands. Marlene also loved to travel and explore. For 25 summers, she joined her son Mark and his family on motorhome adventures across the country, creating countless memories and sharing in the joy of discovering America together.

Marlene is lovingly remembered by her sons, Michael and Mark (Elizabeth) Asprooth; daughter-in-law, Jennifer Asprooth; grandchildren, Sean Asprooth, Audra (Matt) Jarvis, Nicholas (Kristin) Asprooth, Lukas Asprooth, and Ashlee (Chris) Ballard; and great-grandchildren, Alexis Asprooth; Aiden, Brady, Alyssa, and Reed Jarvis; and Lincoln, Karla, Marlene, Natalie, and Francis Asprooth.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her beloved companion of 40 years, Richard Wessman.

A visitation for Marlene will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at St. Peter Catholic Church, 620 Blackhawk Boulevard, South Beloit. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:30 a.m. Father Alex Parafina will be officiating the services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made directly to Marlene's family.

Marlene's kindness, faith, creativity, and love for her family will be remembered always by those who were blessed to know her. Go Pack, Go!

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