All Obituaries

Michael Charles Burris, II, 33, born February 12, 1986 to Mary and Mike Burris, Sr. in Rockford passed into rest with the Lord on Friday, July 19, 2019.  He had an unmatched sense of humor that would light up any room. He was known for his quick wit, infectious laughter and his kind and loving spirit. He was a loving and devoted son and brother as well as a caring and devoted father. He was a very good friend to the Rockford Hell's Angels and they greatly adored...

Ronald Alan Tackett, 71, of Rockford passed away peacefully on July 19, 2019. Ron was known for his smile and stories, both of which he was eager to share. As a car enthusiast, Ron enjoyed racing at the Byron Drag Strip in his younger years and found joy in restoring automobiles throughout his life. An avid tinkerer, Ron could fix or refurbish just about anything. He was often found working on projects in his garage or looking for his next project at garage sales. Classic rock was the...

Stephen J. Monson, 64, of Rockton, passed away Friday, July 19, 2019 in his home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 12, 1955 in Iowa City, Iowa to Roger and Beverly (Sponem) Monson. Stephen graduated from Palmer College in Davenport, Iowa in 1978. He married Kelly Hoeg on February 14, 2001 in Rockton. Stephen was a chiropractor for over 30 years and owned and operated Monson Chiropractic Clinic. He enjoyed boating, farmers markets, the outdoors and spending time with his...

On July 15, 2019 Joan Gilda Spurlin, caring wife and mother of four children, Susan, Sandra, Bob Jr. and Maria, passed away at the age of 88.  She was born Joan Biasiello to Mary and Marciano Biasiello on June 24, 1931 at home in Chicago, Illinois. She grew up surrounded by extended family, the youngest of four, watched over by two older brothers, Ralph and Fred, and dancing to Big Band with her sister, Lynn.  After high school Joan worked as a switchboard operator...

Richard "Rick" Dean McKee, 81, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2019.  He was born July 16, 1937 to Nelson Dean "Bud" and Ora (Naegle) McKee in Macomb, IL.  He graduated from Macomb High School in 1955 and attended Western Illinois University before starting work at American Thermos.  He then worked for Hager Pottery (5 years), worked in construction and at Midwest Meat Supply.  He married Pennie Woeckener in 1959 and they raised three children,...

Merry B. Baker, age 70, of South Beloit, passed away in the early morning hours of July 14, 2019 at Maplecrest Care Center in Belvidere, IL.  She was born December 13, 1948 to John Allan and Winifred Mae (Kimball) Martin in Manchester, IA. She graduated from West Delaware High School (Manchester, IA) in 1967 and was married to Richard Baker on February 1, 1972.  She attended Rock Valley College and received her associate’s degree at the age of 39. Merry worked in retail...

Renee "Joyce" Dawson, 89, died peacefully in her home on Monday, July 8, 2019.  Born on August 20, 1929 in Joliet, IL to Harry and Irene Maddison.  She married William “Danny” Dawson on October 7, 1950 in Chicago, IL.  The building of a home was her life’s work.  There she loved baking, cooking and keeping her lovely garden. She enjoyed crafting, sewing, and decorating for all the holidays. She was happiest with a baby in her arms. In the...

Nicole Lynn Laman, 27, of Rockford passed away Monday, July 8, 2019. Born December 24, 1991 in Rockford to Mark Laman and Nancy Bitterman. Private services are to be held.

Kathryn A. Welk, 60, of Rockford, passed away July 4, 2019. She was born on May 2, 1959 in Rockford to Richard and Marian (Blomberg) Pringey. Kathryn graduated from East High School in 1977 and from Rock Valley College in 1979. She met Timothy Welk through MYCA the group, (Ministry to Young Christian Adults) and married Timothy on November 23, 1991. Kathryn was employed as a secretary at a law firm and then later as a secretary and telex operator at Sundstrand. She watched...

Bruce E. Carter, 68, of Rockford, passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2019 at his home. He was born October 30, 1950 in Sterling, IL, the son of Earl and Jean (Miner) Carter. Bruce was a veteran serving in the National Guard. He married Linda J. Osborn in Geneseo, IL on April 1, 1977. Bruce worked at International Paper from 1990 to 2017. He enjoyed Nascar, golf, Jeopardy, recumbent bike riding and playing with his granddaughter, Lacey.  Survivors include his loving wife, Linda; son,...