Donald F. York

HUSBAND, FATHER, GRANDPA, PILOT

Donald F. York, 70, of Machesney Park, took to the skies on Thursday, July 23, 2015. Don was born in Rockford, on February 5, 1945; to parents Roy and Rubena York. He married his loving wife Sue at the Loves Park Free Church on August 3, 1968. Don proudly served his country as a Pilot, in the United States Army, during the Vietnam War from 1966-1970. He went on to receive his Associates Degree from Rock Valley College in 1972. A member of the EAA and WOFWAC66; aviation was his passion and the love of Don’s life. Don’s family would like to send a heartfelt “thank you” to the compassionate and caring staff with OSF Hospice for all of their loving kindness.
Don is survived by his wife of 46 years, Sue York; their children, Jordan (fiancé, Pisey Heng) York, Justin (Alia) York, and Christina York; grandchildren, Elleana, Kingston, and one more on the way; brother, Rev. Dr. Ivan (Doris) York; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He is predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Dorothy Whitford, Doretta Kosman, and Charlotte York.
Funeral service will be 11AM, Wednesday, July 29, 2015, at Central Christian Church, 6595 Guilford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61107; with Pastor Nat Bauer and Rev. Dr. Ivan York officiating. Visitation will be 5 to 7PM, Tuesday, July 28, 2015, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108, and one hour prior to service on Wednesday at Church. Burial will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the York Family. Funeral arrangements cared for by Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Mulford Chapel.