Ellerd "Tiger" Stolgen

Ellerd "Tiger” Stolgren, 97 of Rockford, died Monday, May 13, 2013 in his home. Born May 29, 1915 in Rockford the son of Emil and Josephine (Pearson) Stolgren. Married his loving wife Irene Riverdahl on July 3, 1943 in Rockford. Worked for Hamilton-Sundstrand as a tool and die maker for over 40 years, retired, was called back and eventually finally retired again in the late 1980's. Tiger was a member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church, The Sons of Norway Vauxhall Club, the YMCA Retired Men's Club and was a member of the Masonic Lodge. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to his wonderful caregivers and to Hospice of America for becoming part of the family and caring for Tiger as one of their own. Survivors include his children, Dan (Martha) Stolgren of Whitewater, WI., Sue Rowlands of Wilmette, Mary (Robert) Byers of Rolling Meadows and Karen (Richard) Palchick of Carol Stream; grandchildren, Kelly (Todd) Sobieck, Julie (Carl) Dean, Alyssa and Kimberley Palchick; 5 great grandchildren and 1 great great-grandchild and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his wife, Irene; daughter-in-law, Janice Stolgren and 2 brothers, Carl and Milburn Stolgren. Memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 18, 2013 at 11 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Pastor Jeff Fricke officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers memorials to Hospice of America 3815 N. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61114.