Jessie "John" L. Andrus

Jessie "John" Lee Andrus, 89, of Rockford, passed away peacefully Saturday, April 15, 2017.  Born July 2, 1927 in Stone County, Missouri, the son of Jess and Cora Mae (Blades) Andrus. John wed Mary Michelon in Rockford on July 30, 1949. They spent 55 wonderful years together. He was employed at J.I. Case, Crosser Foundations and retired from Quality Foundations. John enjoyed bowling, fishing, boating and camping with his children, vacationing in Gulf Shores, Alabama, trips to the casino and visiting his relatives in Missouri. He enjoyed watching bull riding and wrestling on TV. John had a green thumb, was an avid gardener and a great cook. He loved the company of his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, friend, Deb and her dog, Jada. He would say, "You ins are always welcome at my house!" John will be missed dearly.

Survivors include children, Dennis, Gary (Kathy), Sheryl, Ted (Karen), Darryl (Denise), Blake (Sheila H.), Bryce (Denise); grandchildren, Melanie (Bryan) Lopata, Jennifer (Jason) Cannon, Amanda (Chris), Michele (Jeremy) Sather, David, Justin, Thomas (Jennifer), Shannon, Christino, Melissa, Matthew (Brittany), Brandi, Cody (Tessa) Chastain, Tyler, Shane; 23 great-grandchildren; sisters, Imogene Wilson, Joan Logan; brother, Kenneth "Rusty" (Ann); sisters-in-law, Jennie Michelon and Polly (Pat) Dunn and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents; his wife, Mary; sisters, Nadine "Deannie" Wilson, Verna Mae Tilley and brother, J.D. Andrus.

Special thanks to Dr. Edison Lim, Davita Dialysis (Rockton Ave.) and nurses on the 4th floor at OSF.

A private family celebration of John's life will be held.

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