Phyllis Ann “Rickie” Giorno, 84 years old of Whitewater, WI, passed away suddenly Friday, February 27, 2026, in her home.
She was born June 1, 1941, in Kenosha, WI, the daughter of the late Elton and Beatrice (Drysdale) Richter. In October of 1961, she married her soul mate John Giorno who preceded her in death in August of 2017. They truly had a loving, playful relationship through their 56 years of marriage.
Phyllis was a devoted, loving mother & grandmother – she will be remembered for her acceptance, sense of humor, and her famous, “oh well, what do ya do?” response to life’s many challenges. She was a talented cook, always making sure to have food or snacks ready for anyone who may have walked in the door. Phyllis loved her animals and to be outside gardening - yellow roses from her father-in-law’s garden were her favorite. She kept her mind sharp with word searches, puzzles, and a nightly game of Wheel of Fortune.
Survivors include her children, Lori (Robert) Underhill of Mt. Pleasant, WI, Christine (Leo) Wurzer of Eagle, WI, Roxanne (Steve) Schroeder of Edgar, WI, and Tony (Jill) Giorno of Salem, WI; 13 grandchildren, Jorian, Kamren, Sofia and Grace; Amanda and Johnathan; Morgan; Brittney, Krista and Siara; Kaela, Anthony and Gianna; eleven great-grandchildren; and five siblings, Nancy (the late Carlos) Vestal; Elton (Bonnie) Richter, Jr., Cindy Vasko, Jim Rommelfanger and John Rommelfanger.
In addition to her parents, Phyllis was preceded in death by her son, John “Rocco” Giorno in 2022; and her sister, Janice (the late Jack) Balma in 2009.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon on Monday, March 9, 2026, at Proko Funeral Home with funeral services commencing at 12:00 noon. Interment will follow in St. George Cemetery, Kenosha, WI.
Condolences
Mike Rhode
March 7, 2026
As a child teenager and young adult, she always welcomed me into her home. She would set a plate for me and it was always delicious. She would ask how my grandma and my father were doing with s genuine interest. Tony and I would get dropped off and picked up from the shop on a regular basis. She never complained even when it was late at night. You guys had great mom .
Christine Wurzer
March 4, 2026
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen." Dear Family and Friends: Mom would want this for us all. Seek God Jesus Saves. Til we meet again Mom. Love Christini.