Beatrice Y. Caruso

Beatrice Y. Caruso, 84, of Springfield, died at 5:55 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2017 at her home. Born in Capestrano, Italy on May 25, 1932, Beatrice was the daughter of Giuseppe and Anselma Palmeri Fontecchio. She immigrated to the United States from Naples, Italy through the port of New York on April 24, 1951. Beatrice lived in Springfield from the time she was 19 years old. She married Antonio Caruso, Jr. at St. Patrick Church on August 18, 1951; he preceded her in death in 2002. Beatrice was a lifelong member of Christ the King Parish, where she was a member of the Altar & Rosary Society. She taught herself to read, write and speak English, with the help of her husband. She was an excellent seamstress, a committed indoor and outdoor gardener, and a talented Italian cook. She was a loving mother and grandmother. Her family will most remember and appreciate her unrelenting graciousness, tirelessly utilizing her talents and opening her home to them year after year throughout their lives; their time enjoying holidays with her in her home will never be forgotten. Beatrice was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her son, Joseph (Pamela) Caruso of Auburn; daughter, Ann (John) Vuylsteke; and grandchildren, Elise and Nicole Caruso and Valerie (Crys) and Jack Vuylsteke. Visitation and Funeral Mass: The family will receive friends at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, April 20, 2017 at Christ the King Church, 1930 Barberry, Springfield, until the time of the ceremony at 11:30 a.m. with Rev. Joseph Ring, celebrant. Entombment will be held at Oak Ridge Mausoleum following the Funeral Mass. Memorial contributions may be made to: Christ the King, 1930 Barberry, Springfield, IL 62704.