Phillip Michael Cirullo

With deep gratitude for a life well-lived, we announce the passing of Phillip Cirullo, a devoted family man, proud Italian-American, and patriot who lived his life with honor, laughter, and love.

Phil was born on July 8, 1943, to Joseph and Jenny Cirullo and proudly served on the USS Enterprise (CVN 65) in the U.S. Navy. During his time in the Navy, Phil traveled the world on three tours, embracing adventure and culture. He visited Rome and the Vatican, explored Greece and even went skiing in the Alps. Years later, he had the opportunity to join his fellow veterans on an Honor Flight in 2019.

Phil met the love of his life, Jacque through friends and they were married in September of 1975, beginning a beautiful journey together that would last 49 years. Their union was blessed with five loving children: Shelley, Dawn, Tina, Rita Ann, and Phillip.
Phil was a man of tradition, especially cherishing his Italian heritage. His love for his family was at the heart of all he did. Holidays were spent gathered around the table, enjoying the Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve and festive Halloween parties. He loved attending St. Donatus Feast, celebrating his roots with pride.

Phil's passions were many-classic cars, the timeless melodies of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, and the great game of baseball, which he played for the U.S. Navy. Yet, his greatest joy was his family. He was the cherished grandfather of Matthew (Katie) and Katherine Gordon, Ryan , Kristen, Tyler, and Jacob Strilko, who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.

Phil is survived by his beloved wife, his five children, Shelley (Randy) Halach, Dawn (the late Scott) Gordon, Tina Cirullo Strilko, Rita Ann and Phillip Cirullo II, his sister Sharon (Donald) Thomas, and his siblings-in-law: the late Daniel (Judy) Rita, Susan (Todd) Currier, Patti (Allen) Leppellere, and Diane (Jeff) Holtrop and loving uncle to many.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, from 2 PM to 8 PM at Vandenberg Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 3, 2025, at 10 AM at St. Walter Church, 11722 S Oakley Ave, Chicago, IL 60643. Burial will follow at Abraham Lincoln Cemetery.

Phil's life was a testament to the power of love, faith, and tradition. As he is welcomed into the arms of his Creator, his legacy of laughter, strength, and family unity will continue to inspire those who had the honor of knowing him.

In Phil Cirullo, we celebrate a life richly lived, a heart fiercely loved, and a soul eternally cherished. Ciao, Phil-until we meet again.