Donald R. Grelle

Donald R. Grelle, 61, Rockford, died at 12:50 a.m. Monday, January 11, 2010 in OSF St. Anthony Medical Center.  Born September 28, 1948 in St. Louis, MO, son of Lawrence and Valeria (Frank) Grelle.  Married Kandy Blackford in Sioux Falls, SD on December 21, 1974.  He was a hard worker and was employed in circulation by the Rockford Register Star for 32 years. Member of St. Rita Catholic Church.  Don was passionate about golf and loved to hunt and fish. He also enjoyed the time he spent as an assistant softball coach with Kenrock Community Center.  His family was the most important thing in his life and he always made a special effort to share quality time and love with his children.  Survivors include his wife, Kandy; daughters, Christina (Scott) and Ashlie; grandchildren, Jonathan, Chance and Tabitha; mother, Valerie Define; sisters, Sandy (Don) Oakes and Carol (Jerry) Kemp; father-in-law, Walter Blackford and numerous nieces and nephews.  Predeceased by his father.  Sincere gratitude is extended to Don and Kandys neighbors for the outstanding love, care and support that was given during Dons illness. A Memorial Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, January 16, 2010 in St. Rita Catholic Church with Msgr. Gerald P. Kobbeman officiating.  Visitation from 9:00 until 9:45 a.m. at the church on Saturday.  Memorials may be given to the donors choice.  Condolences and memories can be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.