Donald G. Martinetti

Donald G. Martinetti, 81, life long Rockford resident, died Monday, November 27, 2017 in Bickford House. Born October 17, 1936, son of Dominic and Marcella Rinaldi Martinetti. Graduated from East High School and received his Bachelors and Masters degrees from Northern Illinois University. Married Suzanne P. Jarrett in St. James Church, Rockford, on June 6, 1964. He grew up helping run the family businesses, Ideal Grocery Store and Parkmore Drive-In. Following college he was employed by R.P.S. #205 for 35 years, spending his entire career teaching and coaching at Jefferson High School. Donald was Jefferson’s first golf coach and remained the coach for 25 years. He retired from there in 1994. He also worked for the Rockford Park District as a Ranger and helped run the summer youth golf tournament programs. Veteran of the U.S. Army.

Survivors include his wife, Sue; son, Dean (Angel) Martinetti; daughters, Leah (Rick) Hanley and Nicole (Mike) Winters; grandchildren, Bayli, Rylie and Dane Martinetti, Brandon and McKenna Winters; and the delight of his life, his little dog, Dimples. Predeceased by his parents.

A funeral service to honor Don’s life will be held Saturday, December 2, 2017 at 1:00 p.m. in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Rev. David E. Beauvais officiating. Visitation from 11:00 a.m. until time of the service. Burial in Calvary Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Don Martinetti Cup,15623 Taylor Street, South Beloit, IL 61080, a golf tournament benefitting R.P.S. #205 golf programs. Share condolences and memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.