Edward "Ed" Gratz

Edward “Ed” Gratz, 55, of Roscoe passed away Tuesday, January 15, 2019 after a long battle with a glioblastoma (brain cancer).  He was surrounded by his family.  He is survived by his wife, Jeanette; daughter, Cheyanne; son, Noah; father Lowell; mother, Betty; brother, Dean McCaleb; along with many aunts; uncles; cousins; nieces; and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother, Raymond Gratz. 

Since his diagnosis Ed and his family were able to enjoy several trips, some with the help of family and friends, including trips to Disney World, St. Louis, Springfield, Texas and the Alamo, The Florida Keys, and several trips to the Wisconsin Dells. Ed was an avid outdoorsman and loved anything outdoors from camping and campfires to just being outside. He also enjoyed his motorcycle. His greatest love was his family especially his children Cheyanne and Noah. Ed also enjoyed being around animals. From his lizards, tarantulas, and a ferret to the countless dogs he had. All his animals brought him great joy. Up until the time of his illness he was a maintenance mechanic at AMS – Accurate Machine Services in Rockford, IL. He enjoyed being with his work family along with the countless customers he was able to work with. 

The family would like to express their gratitude to the countless friends and their church family, Church of the Holy Spirit in Roscoe, who have been there to help during the time of Ed’s illness.  Whether it was a visit, a meal, help with the kids, prayers or anything else, all was greatly appreciated and know that your kindness will never be forgotten.  Ed had a great medical team treating him and the family expresses their gratitude to all the staff at OSF St. Anthony’s in Rockford, IL especially Andrew who was always there to greet us with a smile during Ed’s treatment along with all the nursing staff and Dr. Ismael Shaukat, Ed’s oncologist. Also Dr. Ian Robins and Dr. Steve Howard at UW Madison and all the staff and nurses who were a part of this journey. Because of your dedication and care, we were able to have Ed with us longer than most patients who are diagnosed with this type of cancer. The final months included OSF Hospice and the family would like to thank them for their love, support and guidance during this difficult part of the journey.  Michelle(s), Janelle, Deacon Pete, Alice, Marqwell, and all the others behind the scene, thank you doesn’t seem to be enough. You are all angels here on earth.    

To honor Ed's request, no wake is to be held. However, there will be a rosary recited at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, January 20, 2019 in Church of The Holy Spirit, 5637 Broad Street, Roscoe, any eulogies may be given after the rosary. There will be a visitation held from 9:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, January 22, 2019 until time of mass at 11:00 a.m. also in Church of The Holy Spirit, Roscoe. Burial will be held at 2:00 p.m. Friday, January 25, 2019 in Windridge Memorial Park, Cary, IL in the chapel. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Gratz family to be used in Ed's name.

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