Fred P. Lerch

Fredrick Paul Lerch, 75, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away on May 15, 2026. He was born on October 22, 1950, in Rockford, Illinois.

Fredrick worked as a tile layer for Northern Illinois Terrazzo, where he developed his skills over the years, and later worked at Speedy Courier Services.

He will be remembered for his stubbornness, his sweet tooth, his love of race cars—which he proudly passed down to his children—and for the simple joys he found in life: trying his luck with lottery tickets and spoiling his grandchildren with Cosmic Brownies and a little extra cash. He also shared a love of movies with his children, who remember countless trips to the drive-in, movie theaters, and watching films and shows together at home. He was also a fan of the Green Bay Packers. One of his favorite pastimes was placing friendly bets on Packers games with his family, which he usually won. 

He is survived by his ex-wife and caretaker for the past 20 years, April Klitzke, and their sons, Josh (wife Linnea), Jeremiah, and Caleb; his son, Fredrick Paul Lerch of Connecticut; and his daughter, Melina Lerch, currently serving in the United States Navy and stationed in Monterey, California. He was a proud grandfather to Jenna, Jensen, and Lanna Lerch; Haylee, Kaitlyn, Alyssa, and Kaiden Lerch; Dagen, Bianca, Chloe, and Savannah Lerch; and Haeli Lerch, as well as two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Huey, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Maggie Leona Lerch, and his father, Fredrick Paul Lerch.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 23, at 11:00 a.m. at Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5403 North Second Street, Loves Park, Illinois 61111. Fellowship will follow the service. His ashes will be laid to rest at a later date.

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