DeAnne C. Kudzma

DeAnne “Dee” C. Kudzma, 84, of Rockford, passed away on January 10, 2025. She was born on August 7, 1940, in Rockford, the daughter of Folke and Lucille (Drake) Lind. She married Gerald “Jerry” Kudzma on August 6, 1960, and he preceded her in death on June 24, 2022. Dee enjoyed gardening, bowling around the Rockford area for many years, and was the life of the party. Jerry and Dee loved traveling to Puerto Vallarto, Mexico and socializing with their friends at the Lithuanian Club and St. Ambrosio Society. She was an outgoing, spunky, energetic but warm welcoming wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend.

Dee will be missed by those who loved her most, children, Kim (Gary) Strakeljahn, Dave (Jodi) Kudzma, and Mike (Wendy) Klock; grandchildren, Stephanie (Corey) Edwards, Taylor (Eric) Brown, Brooke (Brendan Ford) Kudzma, Paige Kudzma, Karly Klock, and Kendra Klock; great grandchild, Brecklynn Brown; siblings, Randi King and Kathy (Dave) Stevens; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is predeceased by her parents; husband, Jerry; and siblings, Tom, John, and Ernie.

The family would like to give a special thank you to OSF Hospice.

Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life will be on Friday, January 17, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., at the Lombardi Club, 209 Olive Street, Rockford, IL 61107. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, 111 N 1st St, Rockford, IL 61107. Please share memories and condolences online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.