Grandmas hold a special place in our lives. They share with us knowledge of the past and inspire us as role models for the future. I truly believe that my grandma, Jennie Moriconi Likens, was one of the best grandmas anybody could ask for. Jennie was born in Springfield to a family of hard-working Italian immigrants. Like her parents, Jennie was involved in the tavern industry of Springfield, owning Curley’s, The Alibi Lounge and The Circus Circus Lounge. Later in life, she also worked at Cheer’s and Koo Koo’s Nest. Jennie was famous for her delicious cooking and generous attitude of sharing with everyone. She was adored and loved by so many as “Grandma Jennie.”
As my grandmother, she inspired me from an early age to love myself and embrace my passions. I credit my grandma with providing so much to me in life. She took me to the library every day after school which sparked my future career as a genealogist. She inspired me as a proud Italian-American and showed me what it meant to treat others with kindness and respect. I am eternally grateful for all that she did for me and everyone in our community.
Grandson Dylan Shomidie
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Remembering 2024
This article appears in Remembering 2024.
