Kelli Lynn Ingardona

Kelli Lynn Ingardona,45, of Cherry Valley went to be with the Lord, April 12, 2010 at home surrounded by her loving family. Born March 13, 1965, in Rockford, daughter of Gerald and Linda (Young) Whelan. Graduated from West High School in 1983. Married Frank Ingardona in Rockford May 27, 1995. Kelli was a Rockford Firefighter for more than 20 years, starting her career with the department September 1, 1989. Kelli served on the Physical Agility Test Development Commission and as a coordinator of the Physical Agility Program. Throughout her career on the department Kelli received 2 letters of commendation. She was the Chairman of the Fire Fighter’s Picnic for 8 years serving alongside Jeff Poshka. She became a paramedic December 1,1992, and a preceptor June 27, 2001. She received her Firefighter III as well as Fire Officer 1 certification. On April l 6, 1998 Kelli rescued a victim from a burning building in Rockford. She went on to become Driver Engineer in November of 2006 and then her most challenging role as Lieutenant March 5, 2009. Kelli was a member of St. Mark Lutheran Church and enjoyed spending time with her family.Survivors include; loving husband Frank, son Dario and Son Franky, step children; Jade and Zack, father; Gerald Whelan of Rockford, sisters; Lori(Pete) Calen of Rockford, Tami Rhymer of Rockford, and Julie (Larry) Miller of Tolono, Il. Nephews Cody, Kyle and Eron Rhymer,Special cousin; Jan Chabucos, mother and father-in-law Frank & Claudia Ingardona, sisters and brother-in-laws, Jerry & Kathy Donelli, Mike & Toni Piamonte, Alex & Kristy Ingardona and special friends Jeri Hart and Bob Vertiz and many special nieces and nephews. Kelli is predeceased by her mother Linda. Services at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, April 17, 2010 in St. Mark Lutheran Church, 675 N. Mulford Rd. with Rev. Dr. Mark Hagen officiating. Visitation from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, April 16, 2010 at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd. Memorials to the family. Cremation Rights will be accorded. Please visit sunsetfhmemgardens.com to post your tributes.