Ronald E. Back

Ronald E. Back, 68, Belvidere, died at 2:05 a.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2011 at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago. Ron was born April 30, 1942 in Rockford, son of Elbert and Cora Holcomb Back. Graduate of Rockford East High School in 1961 and attended college for a short period of time. Married Barbara Judy Gillaspy in Rockford on April 17, 1965. Employed at Swift & Co. of Rochelle prior to being hired at Chrysler Corporation for 31 years. Retired as a foreman in 1996. Ron was one of Jehovah's Witnesses and attended the Kingdom Hall in Belvidere. He also enjoyed being a member of the Twilight Flyers Club in Boone County. Ronald's life was dominated by love. Love, most especially for his wife Judy, but also love for his family, love for his God Jehovah and for his faith. He enjoyed walking on the beaches of Florida, spending time with his friends, connecting with people and making people laugh. Ron had a passion for life and had dynamic qualities that will always be remembered by his family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Barbara J. Back; son, Ronald E. (Andrea) Back II; daughter Barbara Corinne (Joseph) Witte; daughter, Michelle J. Back and son Bryon D. (Kathryn) Back; grandchildren Evan and Nicholas Back, Lauren and Alexander Witte and Dylan C. Back. He is predeceased by his parents, Elbert and Cora Edna Back and his brother, Daniel R. Back. Also predeceased by his beloved schnauzers, Chelsea and Pepper. Private funeral services provided by Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel and he will be laid to rest at Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial service to be held at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 5995 Marengo Rd., Belvidere on Saturday, January 29, 2011 at 2:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Belvidere Kingdom Hall. Express condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.