Winifred Ann "Winnie" Dassero, 105 years young, surrounded by her loving family, walked home with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and his Blessed Mother to the place he had lovingly prepared for her on Thursday, June 11, 2026

Winnie was born on March 8, 1921 in Chicago, Ill, to Albert and Freida (Witzack) Phillips who preceded her in death, as well as her sister Charlene, her brother Albert, her great-grandson James Hart and the love of her life, her beloved Frank whom she married on April 28, 1944 in Pensacola, Florida, where Frank was stationed with the Navy during World War II.

During her younger years, Winnie loved to attend baseball games at Wrigley Field in Chicago, and loved baseball in general.  She looked forward to attending or watching on TV "The KC Royals", and the Saint Joseph Mustangs.

Winnie also loved to dance, especially in her 20's at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago, where many of the Big Band Orchestras played and famous vocalist like Frank Sinatra, Perry Como, and others sang.  Winnie also liked to travel with her family and friends, and on occasions as she said, 'love to party!"  She had a birthday party comparable to a wedding reception every year beginning at age 90, until her 105th this year.

Winnie's first job was at Andes Candies in Chicago in her teens; a switchboard operator for AT&T in her 20's and a secretary receptionist for various companies until her last employment with the Buchanan County Court House in the Child Support Enforcement Unit for over 21 years.

Winnie was a five time cancer survivor requiring no chemo or radiation treatments which exemplified her faith and trust in her Lord as she suffered with courage and fortitude.

Winnie converted to Catholicism before her marriage.  She was a member of several parishes in town, and is currently a member of  St. Francis Xavier where her services and Mass will be held.  Winnie was always very active in ministry, and held leadership roles in the Legion of Mary, and the Altar Societies, at each parish she attended.  She voluntarily gave generously of her time, talents, and treasure.

Winnie genuinely cared about the people she encountered each day.  She helped many during their difficult moments, trial and illnesses, expecting nothing in return.  She was the main caregiver for several years of her husband until he passed at age 50 in 1972.  It was during that time that her dream of becoming a nurse which was impossible during the Depression and World War II was answered and fulfilled.  She learned all the necessary nursing skills, and also used these taking care of her mother and other family members through the years.

Winnie possessed a Servant's Heart and always was "other directed".  She possessed unconditional love and had her priorities straight:  God first; family, then friends.  These relationships were what she treasured most along with her diamond wedding hand; her rosary,  her Bible, and the Cross she wore around her neck.

Her words of wisdom and gentle guidance will remain with those who love her and whom she loved:

Daughters: Linda Dassero-Kemper, Susan (Martin) Hart; grandsons: Paul (Jenyl) Hart, Jonathan Kemper; granddaughter:  Tiffany (Andrew) Crippen; great-grandson: Andrew Hart and Oliver Hart; one nephew who is considered her son Michael (Claudia) Mathieu; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Winnie expressed her heartfelt thanks for her Freudenthal team.  She felt they went over and above and outstanding in care.  Winnie wants to thank her Freudenthal caregiver, Cherie for over five years, she is thankful in making many memories and becoming as like one of my dauthers

Visitation will be Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, followed by the Rosary at 11:30 am, leading into Mass of Christian Burial beginning at 12:00 noon, all at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.  Interment and committal prayers will be Monday, July 13, 2026, at 11:00 am at Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Flowers being done by Butcharts.  Masses would be appreciated.  Donations may be made to Children's Mercy Hospital, EWTN, St. Jude's, or Wounded Warriors.