Rose Mary Welc, 89, passed away on September 8, 2026. She was born in Chicago to Walter and Estelle (Glab) Poreda. She was the sister of Christine Ziomek and the late Conrad Poreda and Sheila (Ross).
Rose Mary graduated from high school and, in her twenties, pursued her love of dance as a professional dancer. She later married Paul Iacopetti, with whom she shared 24 years of marriage and raised three children: Paul J. Iacopetti (Becky), MariaElena Kascher (Kevin), and Steven W. Iacopetti.
Rose Mary later married Stanley Welc, and they enjoyed 13 years together before his passing in 2006. Their shared love of ballroom dancing became an important part of Rose Mary’s life. She continued to dance and enjoy music for many years.
Rose Mary was outgoing, creative, and loved being surrounded by people. She was an accomplished seamstress who made clothing, costumes, and wedding dresses for family members and clients. She was also a wonderful cook and loved to entertain. Family gatherings were especially important to her, and one of the family’s cherished traditions was coming together at Christmas to make homemade pierogi.
Later in life, Rose Mary continued to find ways to bring people together. While living in Huntley’s Del Webb Sun City community, she enjoyed hosting neighborhood parties at her home and creating opportunities for friends and neighbors to gather, eat, and laugh together. She loved playing cards and games, tending to her garden, cooking for others, and, most of all, enjoying the company of the people around her.
Rose Mary also had a special way of bringing happiness to others during the Christmas season, performing as Mrs. Claus at various engagements.
Rose Mary is survived by her three children, Paul J. Iacopetti (Becky), MariaElena Kascher (Kevin), and Steven W. Iacopetti; her three grandchildren, Lucas Kascher, Claire Kascher, and Jackson Iacopetti; her sister Christine Ziomek; her sister-in-law Carol Poreda; and many other family members and friends.
Rose Mary will be remembered for her love of dancing, cooking, gardening, sewing, entertaining, and bringing people together. She loved a full house, a good meal, a game of cards, a beautiful garden, and a good laugh. She had a gift for making a home feel welcoming and a gathering feel special. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her family and friends.
Visitation will be held at 9:00 a.m. on September 18, 2026, at St. Mary’s Church in Huntley, Illinois, followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m.
For further information, please contact the funeral home at 847-515-8772, or online condolences may be directed to www.defiorefuneral.com.
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Maria, Paul and Steven, I am so very sorry for your loss. I temember, when coming over to visit Maria, your mom was always such a kind and fun woman. God bless you all.
You and your family are in my prayers as you mourn her loss and celebrant her life. May God comfort you.
We send our most sincere sympathy to you and entire family upon loss of your Mama. We love you and your in our thoughts and in our prayers. She was devoted to you and that you can be proud of. Be brave in your sorrow. She left a lifetime of memories. Rest in peace Rose Mary.