Rosa Greco

Born in Nogiano, near Rende, Cozenza, Italy, on Jan. 28th, 1944. Rosa passed away peacefully on October 15th, 2026, with all of her family at her side. In 1958, she immigrated to the United States with her mother and brother, settling in Racine, WI. Rosa attended elementary schools in Racine and graduated from Racine Park High School.

Before coming to the U.S., Rosa received specialized training at a Convent School (Rende, Italy) and from her aunt, mastering the skills to be a seamstress and tailor. She also mastered all handicrafts, creating many original and unique designs for family, friends, and dignitaries. She designed and created custom-made men's and women's clothing, baptismal sets, evening gowns, bedspreads, hats, gloves, and other items. Rosa did this without patterns. She was an original designer. She even designed and created one baptismal set for a former Secretary of Defense's family. Rosa won awards for creative achievements. Eventually, she opened her own tailor business in Milwaukee, WI. She provided services to many corporations, friends, dignitaries, and professionals. 

Rosa's talents were utilized by flight attendants from United, American, and Midwest Airlines, actor Michael Bolton, the Spice Girls, and the professional hockey team, the Milwaukee Admirals. She also taught Italian at Gateway Technical College and was an interpreter for Johnson Wax, Wishbone, and several banks in Racine, Wis.

Rosa was self-motivated and driven, proudly showing her fantastic cooking and baking skills by preparing savory Italian specialty meals for family, friends, and special guests. Her specialty Italian cookies and pastries were ordered by many for parties, showers, weddings, and other special and church events. She brought these talents from the traditions of her parents and relatives in Italy. She was proud to be of Italian heritage, but she was also a proud American citizen.

At a Christmas gathering in 1963, she met Warren Greco, who, on June 6th, 1964, became her husband. They were married at St. Lucy's Catholic Church in Racine, WI. They celebrated their 62nd wedding anniversary this past June. Rosa was the "heart and soul" for her husband and their three children. As her husband said, she was the "rock" and stability for the family. Rosa encouraged and supported Warren and their children's lives, which led to his and their professional success. A huge "hole" has been created for her beloved husband and their three children, which will never be filled. Rosa was a kind, patient, loving, and devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and loyal friend. She left a beautiful "mark" and memory wherever she lived.

She is survived by her husband, Warren, and all three of their children, who reside in Stevens Point, WI. They are Natalie Geco, Arthur (Peggy) Greco, and David (Christine) Greco. She is further survived by four grandchildren: Andrew Pihart (Wausaukee, WI), Nolan Pihart (Madison,WI), and Tyler and Bella Greco (Stevens Point, WI). Her surviving family members include two brothers: Frank (Lisa) Russo (Upland, Calik) and Tony (Angela) Russo (Tuscon, AZ). She is also survived by two brothers-in-law and their wives: Richard (Barabara) Greco (Racine, WI) and James (Donna) Greco (Woodstock, IL). Others who survive her are many cousins, nieces, and nephews, and special friends in Racine, Kenosha, Stevens Point, Arizona, California, Canada, and Italy.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Guido and Vincenza Russo; her infant sister, Rosina; and her father- and mother-in-law, Arthur and Carmella Greco. All of Rosa's grandparents, uncles, and aunts are deceased.

Rosa enjoyed walking (10 miles at times) with her furry little dog, Frankie, while adoring the beauty of nature in wooded areas, especially the birds, wildlife, and flowers. She was an avid reader and enjoyed her travels to Italy and Spain, as well as throughout the United States with her husband and children. Studying the languages, traditions, and cultures of different countries was a favorite of hers. Her greatest love and happiness came from being with her children and grandchildren and sharing with her friends.

She would not hesitate to put others' needs before her own. She volunteered with the community (Community Foundation of Portage County) and in the churches she belonged to. She was an active member of St. Bronislava Parish, Plover, WI, belonging to the Parish Council of Catholic Women (PCCW). Rosa will be forever sadly missed and cherished by her husband, children, and grandchildren. They will forever love all of who she was.

"You have sorrow now, but I will see you again" (John

16:22) … Arrivederci …

The family extends their special thanks to the many people who prayed for Rosa and all of us during the final days of her life. God bless you all. Rosa was a devoted Catholic and a defender of her faith. We cannot forget the wonderful priests who contacted, prayed for, and blessed Rosa during the months and days of her illnesses. Thank you, and God bless you: Father Arturo, Father Matthew, Mons. Burrill, and Father Ed.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Rosa will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday October 23, 2026, at St. Bronislava Catholic Church 3200 Plover Road Plover. Fr. Arturo Vigueras will officiate. Visitation on Friday from 10:00a.m. until time of service at the church. Burial will follow in the parish cemetery. For online condolences please visit www.pisarskifuneralhome.com

A special thanks to Rosa's (our) "Guardian Angel on Earth" and dearest friend, Dr. Sabina Hale; her health provider, Dr. Jody Strong; and the most comforting hospice nurse, Lynn K., who brought Rosa through her final journey.