Valeria Jeannie Rinaldi

Valeria “Jeannie” Rinaldi, 78, passed away on December 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Jeannie was born on July 7, 1947, in Portage, Wisconsin, to Elsie (Labrenz) Kopplin and Arnold Kopplin, both of whom preceded her in death.

Jeannie grew up on a farm in Portage, Wisconsin, before later moving to Rockford, Illinois, where she built the life and family she cherished so deeply. In the summer of 1965, she met the love of her life, Ronald Rinaldi. They were married in the summer of 1966 and shared 59 years of marriage. Their love was rare and unwavering — built on devotion, friendship, loyalty, and deep respect. A love like theirs comes once in a lifetime, and together they were the true definition of soulmates and true love.

In October 1967, Jeannie and Ron welcomed their first and only child, Shayne Rinaldi, into the world. Motherhood was one of Jeannie’s greatest joys, and Shayne was her entire world. She stood by his side through every season of life with unconditional love and unwavering support. As Jeannie’s health declined, Shayne and Ron cared for her together, ensuring she was surrounded by comfort, dignity, and love until her final days.

Jeannie shared an incredibly close bond with her brothers and sisters, and family time was always at the center of her life. They spent countless hours together doing puzzles at one another’s homes, celebrating New Year’s Eve by making oysters and, of course, jumping over the clock before midnight, a tradition filled with laughter and love. Jeannie also enjoyed going to bingo with her siblings and taking trips together, creating memories that became cherished stories within the family. Those moments of togetherness reflected the deep connection and joy they found in simply being with one another.

Jeannie also shared a very special bond with her dear and lifelong best friend, Carol Bauer, whose friendship, love, and constant presence meant the world to her. Jeannie worked in various roles throughout her life before later working at Walmart, where she met one of her best friends, Marilyn. She eventually began working at Walgreens as the Head of the Cosmetology Department, where she formed close friendships with Sharon, Denise, and the rest of her Walgreens family—relationships that meant a great deal to her.

Jeannie was a devoted and loving grandmother, sharing a particularly close bond with her granddaughter Stephany Rinaldi, who was like a daughter to her. She was also a loving grandmother to Shayne Rinaldi and Alyssa Kasten.
Jeannie shared an extraordinarily close bond with her great-granddaughter, Arianah (Ari). From the moment Arianah was born, the two were inseparable. Jeannie was Arianah’s go-to person, her confidant, her best friend—her person. They spent countless days together talking, shopping, playing games, and sharing life side by side. The bond they shared was unlike any other, and Jeannie’s presence shaped Arianah’s life in a profound and lasting way.

Jeannie was a member of Mount Olive Lutheran Church. She loved playing bingo, getting dressed up to attend events, line dancing to country music, crocheting, and playing her computer games. Family meals, holiday decorating, and time spent together meant everything to her. She had a deep love for horses and adored her dog Baby.

Jeannie was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings; Rosalie Kopplin, Harold Kopplin, Marion (Bob) Hayes, Ellowyn (Roger) Kershaw, Marge (Gene) Thornton, William "Bill" (Gloria) Kopplin, Harlan "Hirk" Kopplin, and Elton "Koppie" (Marcelle) Kopplin.

Survivors include her loving husband Ronald Rinaldi; her son Shayne Rinaldi; her grandchildren Stephany Rinaldi, Shayne Rinaldi, and Alyssa Kasten; her great-grandchildren Arianah (Ari), Keegan, and Ava; her sister Helen O’Neill Dreyer; her best friends Carol and Marilyn; her special work friends Sharon, Denise, and her Walgreens family; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and all those who lovingly called her “Grandma” throughout the years. Jeannie welcomed everyone with open arms and a full heart, making each person feel accepted, loved, and part of her family.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to Toniette Myers and Brandi Andrus for their love, support, and the special bonds they shared with Jeannie.
Jeannie gave her love selflessly, from the beginning of our lives to the end of hers.

She was there when we took our first breath… and we were there when she took her last.

Celebration of Life
A Celebration of Life for Jeannie will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the White Eagles Club, located at 235 15th Ave., Rockford, IL 61104.
Guests are asked to enter through the back of the building using the double gray doors. A large parking lot is located at the rear of the building, offering close and convenient access. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL 61111. www.statelinecremations.com