Donald J. Kuehl Sr.

Donald J. Kuehl Sr., 91, passed away on October 10, 2023, in Rockford, Illinois. He was born on November 4, 1931, in Argusville, North Dakota. While in the U.S Air Force for 4 years, he was a jet engine mechanic. After being discharged, he married the love of his life, Bernice M. LaBell on July 21, 1956, in Ossineke, Michigan; they shared 66 wonderful years of marriage before her passing 9 months before his. In that time Donald showed his true love and dedication to his family, his friends, and his work. Always working on anything that would benefit others, he was a lifelong member of Carpenters Local 792 for his primary career. He also worked independently for 19 years with his son. At one point in his life Donald pretended to retire, just to turn around and work in the carpenter department of the Rockford Park District. Although, his love for his family greatly outweighed his love for his work. He always saw to it that his family, Bernice’s, and his extended family, were always taken care of. Many fond memories include packing up the family on a whim to go to Michigan when someone was sick. Numerous movie worthy Christmases with all the family surrounded by love, laughter, and maybe a few snowmobiles. Numerous long work summers were dedicated to those winter memories. Donald was meticulous and known for just how good of a job he could do fixing pretty much anything. If he didn’t know how, he knew someone who did. He enjoyed being social and made countless memories as a member of the Venetian Club, the Verdi Club, the Belvidere Moose club, and was honored to be a past commander at the Legion Post 1207, and on their color guard. Donald will truly be missed for his genuine kindness and his love for the people that he came across.

He will be survived by those who loved him most; his children Kim (John) Gierwiatoski and Donald Kuehl Jr.; his grandchildren Matthew (Amber) Kuehl, Adam and Bradley Kuehl; his great grandson Kolton; his sister Marilyn Nazzerini and Sherry Carlson; his siblings in law Winnie (Keith) Holmes, Nancy Robinson and Jim Precord; numerous nieces and nephews. A very special mention to Bernice and Donald’s neighbors Kevin and Donna Murphy, as well as Bill and Jan Steinborn; their love and care will never be forgotten, as well as Crystal from OSF hospice and Chaplin Darwin for their visits, encouraging words, prayers and help to the family. Donald is predeceased by his grandson Nathan Gierwiatoski; his mother Lyleth Brohaugh; his brother Darlyd “Buddy” Carlson; his siblings in law Bobby, Billy, Tiny Joe, Jim (Georgie) LaBell, Mary Louise LaBell, Jenette Pernie, Freda (Eddie) Schultz, JoJo Precord, Skip Robinson, and Yvonne (Orville) Steele.

A visitation will take place on Monday, October 16, 2023, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service, 11:00 a.m. at Christ the Rock Lutheran Church, 8330 Newburg Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Burial to follow at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Christ the Rock Lutheran Church. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com