Jennie Margaret Kulick

Jennie Margaret Kulick, 89, of Rockford, passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side on February 22, 2026. She was born on May 25, 1936, in Akron, Ohio the daughter of James and Grace (Justham) Barton.

Margaret graduated from St. Thomas School of Nursing on June 22, 1957, earning her title as a Registered Nurse. She married Paul E. Kulick on July 12, 1958, in Akron, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and devotion. Margaret began her nursing career working at various hospitals in Ohio until 1961, when she chose to dedicate herself to raising her growing family. In 1974, she returned to the profession she loved at St. Joseph Hospital, where she faithfully served until its closure in 1999. She continued caring for others part-time at various OSF HealthCare physician offices until her 70th birthday. Margaret found great joy in sewing, fishing, and camping with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She cherished traveling with her husband, Paul, and their dear friends Jerry and Evelyn Doty. She especially treasured her many adventures in Mercer, Wisconsin, with the “KUDO” girls. She is survived by her children, Cathy Anderson, Debbie (Jim) Talkington, Laura (Jerome) Jallen, and Paul (Susan) Kulick.

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Brian Anderson (Nikki Dorn), Chris Underwood, Sara (Jeff) Zimmerman, Eamonn Talkington, Maureen Kirschmann, Sean (Heather) Peterson, Caurie Peterson, Daniel (Samantha) Kulick, David (Caytlin) Kulick, Allison (Andrew) Davidson, and Craig (Julia) Covert; and a cherished great-grandmother to Isla, Emma, Oliver, Lucy, Nico, Luca, Blaze, Violette, Harrison, and Lennie, with two great-grandbabies expected in July. She is also survived by her sister, Minnie Ann Esler, and grand dogs Simon and Ivy. Predeceased by her beloved husband, Paul; parents; sister, Marion Montabone, and brothers, James, Joseph, and Fred Barton.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Heartland Hospice for the exceptional and compassionate care given to their mother.

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