Darlene Ortberg

Darlene G. Ortberg, 83, Rockford, passed away Wednesday, November 23, 2016, in her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born December 5, 1932, in Lyon, Minnesota, the daughter of Mahlon and Gertrude (Penkert) Bruell. Darlene married Ronald “Ron” Ortberg on December 5, 1953, in Rochelle. She was employed at Barber Coleman for 10 years and then worked for Clow Corporation for 4 years. She then worked for over 20 years at Testor Corporation retiring as the administrative secretary to the Vice President of Purchasing. Darlene was a lifelong member Christ United Methodist Church, Our Master’s Center and was involved in all aspects of the church through the years. She and Ron belonged to the Model “A” Club in Rockford and spent many summers at Topel’s Mobile Park in Lake Mills, WI and she belonged to the “Red Hat” club. Darlene enjoyed watching the birds and her flowers, but most of all her family came first in her life and she loved spending time with them. Special thanks to the Doctors and Nurses in the Critical Care unit of OSF St. Anthony Medical Center and to the nurses and staff at OSF Hospice for their kind and compassionate care during Darlene’s illness.
Survived by her loving husband of 63 years, Ron; her sons, Richard “Rick” (Lori) of Cherry Valley and Dale (Brenda) of Machesney Park; her grandsons, Nathan and Jacob Ortberg; her brother-in-law, John (Kathy) Ortberg of CA; several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by her parents, Mahlon and Gertrude; her stepmother, Agnes; her son, Craig; her brother, Robert Bruell; her sister, Cecelia Reed; her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Marvin and June Ortberg.
Funeral services will be held at 11 A.M., Tuesday, November 29, 2016, at Christ United Methodist Church, Our Master’s Center, 5973 Darlene Dr. Rockford, 61109 with Reverend Deanna Mede officiating. Burial in Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. on Tuesday at the church. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.