Marino Zarroli - 94

Homewood, Illinois

Marino Zarroli, age 94. Longtime resident of Homewood, formerly of Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood.

Born and raised in Martinsicuro, Teramo, in Italy’s Abruzzi region, Marino was one of nine children. He completed an apprenticeship as a tailor and studied clothing design in Rome before opening his own tailor shop in Bologna, Italy, where he specialized in custom-made suits. It was there he met his future wife, Maria Rosa Braglia. They married in 1958, the same year they immigrated to the United States, first to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and soon after settling in the Chicago area, where they spent 32 happy years together raising a family until her untimely passing in 1990.

Marino was known for being kind, honest, hardworking, dependable, and resourceful—a true do-it-yourselfer. These qualities helped him build a new life across the ocean and live the American dream. They also carried him well into his 94th year, as he continued to live independently. His daily two-to-three mile walks, Italian cooking, and a glass of wine surely played their part, too.

Proud of his Italian heritage, Marino maintained strong ties with extended family in Italy through frequent visits. Friendships were equally important, and he cherished those from Roseland, Homewood, Naperville, and his membership in the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy, Chicago Heights Lodge #1430. He loved gathering with friends for conversation, meals, wine, cards, traveling, and Sons of Italy events.

In retirement, Marino enjoyed winters in Florida with old and new friends alike. He especially loved walking the beach, hosting meals, playing bocce, watching the boats, and spirited evening card games. Above all, Marino will be remembered for his kindness, sharp sense of humor, and million-dollar smile.

Beloved husband of the late Maria Rosa (née Braglia). Loving father of Patrizia (Michael) McElroy and Vittorio Zarroli. Cherished Nonno of Kyle McElroy and Marin (fiancé Douglas Gray) McElroy. Son of the late Nicolina (née Ianetti) and Vittorio Zarroli. Dear brother of Teresa Zarroli, brother-in-law to Claudio Perotti, and preceded in death by seven brothers and sisters in Italy. Fond Zio Marino to many nieces and nephews. Friend to many.

Visitation & Funeral: Resting at Panozzo Bros. Funeral Home, 530 West 14th Street (US Rt 30, 3 blocks east of Western Ave), Chicago Heights, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 9:30 am until time of Funeral Services at 12:30 pm. Entombment at Assumption Cemetery, Glenwood.

Memorials: In Marino’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or www.stjude.org.

Info: 708-481-9230 • panozzobros.com