Juanita "Nita" Parrino

Juanita Parrino nee Blanco, aged 89, passed away peacefully early Easter Monday, cradled in the loving arms of her daughter, Laura. Her departure was met with a joyful reunion in heaven with her beloved husband, Vincent, her cherished daughter Donna, and a host of relatives and friends who had gone before her.

Vinny had the BBQ fired up, and the whole gang was there to greet her. Donna and Vinny gave her a big hug, and family friend Bob Naughton was ready with a joke to make her laugh. At a perfectly timed moment, Frank Sinatra stepped up to the microphone to sing “Summer Wind;” Nita and Vince were instantly young again, laughing and dancing. Juanita’s happiness, now complete, fills the hearts of those who remember her.

Born into the Blanco family in Chicago in 1934 during the grip of the Depression, Juanita’s arrival was a delightful surprise to her parents, James and Pauline. Her early days showcased a spirit of resilience; she overcame the challenges of a premature birth with the ingenuity of her mother’s care, who placed her in an oven as a cradle for her, symbolizing her lifelong tenacity and strength.

Despite her challenging start, Juanita's spirit was indomitable, shaped by a Catholic education that instilled in her values of self-discipline, obedience, accuracy, and the morals befitting a true lady. Her academic journey led her to Wright Junior College, where she earned an Accounting Clerk degree, setting the stage for a life of independence and resilience.

Juanita's grace and beauty, coupled with a cheerful disposition and a heart as vast as Chicago itself, made her a memorable presence. Her life took a romantic turn one summer night when Vincent Parrino, with his Fonzie-like charm, asked her to dance.

Vincent loved her very much, and six months later, gave her the lifelong dream she yearned for: a home and a family. They married in the warm embrace of a large Italian-Sicilian family, an ageless love affair filled with love, laughter, Vinnie’s antics, parties, and their princess daughters, Laura and Donna.

The sudden passing of Vincent at the age of 60 tested Juanita's strength, but she persevered, moving to Las Vegas to be close to Donna. Later, she moved to Milwaukee to live with Laura, seeking healthcare.

Juanita's later years were a testament to her undying spirit. She found joy in daily tasks, keeping up with the news, engaging in lively phone conversations, and reveling in her music. Her love for life was infectious, as was her laughter, which could light up any room.

The loss of her daughter Donna after a prolonged chronic illness again tested her resilience and inner strength. She took solace that her daughter no longer suffered, while her heart broke into pieces.

Nita continued to find a way to find meaning in her life. She serves as a gracious role model on how to age well; always interested in life, listening to her music, watching old movies, finding the simple pleasures in life. She loved to swirl in her chair. vape coming from her e-cig, as she listened to Sinatra.

She cherished her weekly “spa” treatments, a testament to the deep bond between her and Laura, who honored her father’s wish to care for her mother until the end.

Juanita is lovingly remembered by her daughter Laura, grandsons Michael and Christopher, son-in-law Rick Shaw, and "adopted" daughter Chris Moshinski. There are many more friends who have enjoyed Nita through the years who were touched by her grace and love. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Chang and his assistant, Larissa, for their compassionate care throughout the years.

Juanita's life, marked by love, resilience, and joy, leaves a legacy that will continue to inspire those who knew her. She danced into the next life with the same grace and spirit that defined her time on earth, leaving behind memories that will forever warm the hearts of her loved ones.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at the MAX A. SASS & SONS OKLAHOMA CHAPEL (1515 W Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee) from 10AM until the Celebration of Life at 12PM. The family invites all to enjoy an Italian meal at the family home, to follow. Memorials to family appreciated. A livestream of Nita's funeral service will be made available on the tribute wall of the max sass.com website beginning at 12:00 PM.