June 21, 2017 at 5:26 p.m.
Lucille Theresa Regni
Lucille Theresa Regni
Lucille, (Lucia), had a colorful, fruitful, full and most rewarding life. She was born in Scranton, Pa., the second of four daughters of her parents Giovanbatista Pellegrini and Giuseppa Tabarrini who emigrated from Tuscany, Italy in their youth. Her father was a coal miner who most unfortunately suffered a severe injury during a cave-in. He passed away leaving his wife and four daughters during the Depression. Growing up in that challenging environment steeled Lucille's character of responsibility, determination, hard-working, love for her family and undying faith in our Lord. Lucille graduated from high school with honors (while she so wanted to attend a university, instead she needed to help provide for her mother and sisters) and began working in bank administration.
Following World War II, Lucille married Lieutenant Ferrer Regni, also from Scranton, and they embarked on a 20-year worldwide tour at Air Force bases in Germany, Oklahoma, Canada, Massachusetts, two tours in Washington D.C., and finally in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Following his retirement from active duty, Lt Colonel Regni and Lucille moved to New Hampshire and later retired to Scranton to be with family, settling in Moscow, Pa. in 1973. After that 27-year absence, Lucille began working again as assistant to the chief financial officer of the largest department store. She leaves lifelong friends around the globe who loved her dearly.
In 1997, Lucille made her last move to Wisconsin, to be with Lori and Ted. She helped at home, having her famous meals ready for them and family, joined Lori in her volunteer work, especially the Master Gardeners of the North whose members warmly and caringly welcomed her. She especially loved projects that entailed getting her hands dirty, like planting the flowers for the Rhinelander hanging baskets.
She became "Grandma Lou" the additional grandma in the Simon clan of 20+ grandchildren and great-grandchildren, embraced by its love. The kids always looked forward to her visits which included batches of her chocolate chip cookies. Many of these visits were during Lucille's walks; two miles each way from our house to theirs. She so enjoyed living in the "Northwoods." She touched all who met her and will be remembered for her selfless kindness and love for others.
As a service wife, Lucille devoted her time to raising her children, aiding in her husband's career advancement. Importantly, Lucille made sure that her family despite our travels remained an integral part of the close knit extended family in Pennsylvania and New Jersey which is enjoyed to this day. We thank our mother for her unconditional love, and instilling in us her character, love of family, and spiritual beliefs.
Lucille developed non-Alzheimers dementia a decade ago. Challenged by this condition she was an inspiration to her family, her caregivers and friends for her courage and grace. She was proud to earn the distinction of a Grand Champion fundraiser in the Alzheimer Association walks. Thank you to her faithful caregivers at Milestone, Rhinelander; Kerri and Christy at Aspirus Day Care, Antigo; Ministry Hospice, and our dear friend Allison. A special thank you to Dr. Chris Koeppl, Lucille's absolute favorite, who always had time to lend an ear and through his excellent care contributed to her longer and productive life.
She was a past member of Holy Family Church, Elcho, present member of St John's Church, Pelican Lake, the Society of the Little Flower, Maryknoll Fathers as well as the Pelican Lake Women's Civic Club. Her passions were her Catholic faith and family. She enjoyed sharing and teaching others her Italian specialty recipes; gardening; nature; music and art; travel and her pets.
Imagine her joy at being reunited with her precious mother and father; her loving husband Ferrer and their oldest son Robert; her sisters, Angelina and JoAnn, nephew Richard and best friend, Mary. She is survived by her sister Pretz and many loving nieces and nephews. In addition to Lori and Ted, Lucille will be so missed by her son Lt. General John Regni and his wife Debra of Arizona, her granddaughter and Air Force pilot Lt. Colonel Jessica Regni stationed in Washington, her grandson John Regni, Jr and his wife Typhaine and her newborn great-granddaughter Giulia of Paris, France.
A memorial fund has been established.
A memorial mass will take place Saturday, June 24 at 11 a.m. at St. John Catholic Church in Pelican Lake. Father Randy Knauf will officiate. Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Strasser-Roller Funeral Home is assisting the family. Friends may visit online at www.strasserrollerfh.com.
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