Marino Zarroli - 94
Homewood, Illinois
Marino Zarroli, age 94
A longtime resident of Homewood, IL, formerly of Chicago’s Roseland neighborhood, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, September 1, 2025.
Born on November 24, 1930, 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. Marino went on to spend his career working as a master tailor. He and Maria Rosa shared 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 and phone calls. 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, cruises, and Sons of Italy events.
In retirement, Marino enjoyed winters in Miami, 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 of 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 (U.S. Rt. 30, 3 blocks east of Western Ave), Chicago Heights, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. until time of Funeral Services at 12:30 p.m. 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
Michael Anthony Gaspari
on 09/05/25
Cathy Eagleton
on 09/07/25
Rest in peace, dear Friend. We will always remember your dry wit and big smile.
Beth Sciackitano
on 09/07/25
Dear Patty, Vic, Mike, Kyle and Marin. We are so sad for the recent passing of your favorite Nonno. He truly was a special person and deeply loved all of you. He was such a proud husband, father and grandfather. So glad our family was able to know father. We hope you feel comforted in the fact that he is reunited with your mother. I always loved your "Italian Kitchen" in the basement in Homewood. Also, my family remembers how generous your dad was when he opened his home for a few weeks to my parents while they recovered from losing their home to a devastating fire. He with Julie a remarkable person. Love you all.
Roberto Trento
on 09/07/25
Who would've thought our last meeting would be our last, mostly because I thought you'd endure. I cherish your friendship, the wine and food we shared, and the travels together (minor bickering aside yet part of the fun as we took it with a grain of salt knowing that was part of the fun and light-hearted moments). While I'm still saddened by your passing I take comfort that you are now with your beloved Maria Rosa.
Iriana Formato
on 09/07/25
My deepest condolences and prayers go out to the Zarroli family.
Marino, may you find peace as you hold Maria’s hand once again.
May your souls rest in eternal peace.
Thank you both for blessing me with the gift of a true and loving friend in Vittorio.
Sara O'Braitis
on 09/08/25
To Patty, Vic and all of Marino's family. Sending our deepest sympathies on the loss of your dad. He was a kind and gentle soul that we have so many happy memories with from Homewood to Naperville. I loved reading his tribute and all the wonderful things he did to build a rich life filled with family, friends, many journeys, and a fulfilling career. Sending you all our love and prayers. May Marino rest in eternal peace with your Mom and all loved ones we miss so much.♥️