Eric R. July

Eric R. July, 27, Rockford, died Sunday, December 2, 2012 in his home following a sudden illness.Born August 9, 1985 in Mt. Clemens, MI, son of Dale R. and Susan L. Johnson July.Graduated from Guilford High School in 2003, Rock Valley College and Northern Illinois University.He was presently pursuing a Masters Degree from NIU.While in high school he was a member of the National Honor Society and was named to Whos Who in American High Schools.He ran on the track team at Guilford and played in the band both at Guilford and NIU. He received the honor of becoming an Eagle Scout, and while at Rock Valley was on the Student Council.He was an avid snow skier and enjoyed kayaking, biking and the Chicago, Blackhawks, Bears and Cubs.He had been a Red Cross Volunteer while living in DeKalb and was presently a spokesperson for the National Meningitis Association. He was employed as a supervisor in the Central Processing Department of Cadence Health System, formerly Central DuPage Hospital. Eric always tried to do what was right.He was conscientious, always being supportive and helpful to others.He had a special love for his family and loved animals as shown with his care of ATP the snake and Rambo the Chinese Water Dragon. Survivors include his parent, Dale and Sue; brothers, David (Valerie) July and Bryan (Renee) July; grandparents, Leo and Gloria Johnson and Ruth July; aunts and uncles, Tom (Linda) Johnson, Kathy (Bruce) Erickson and Tammy (Greg) Poulisse; nieces and nephews; Dakota, Natori, Elyjah and Raelynn; cousins; Zachary (Lara) Johnson, Cody (Rebecca) Johnson, Adam (Nicole) Johnson, Chris (Lori) Erickson, Jenn (Erik) EricksonPierson, Jeremy (Megan) Erickson, Jake (Trina) Poulisse, Daniel Poulisse, Nic Poulisse and Matt Poulisse.He is also survived by his feline companion, Jackson. Predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Duane July and cousins, Chad Erickson and Timmy Poulisse.Erics family would like to thank the North Park Fire Department and Chaplain Mumm, the Winnebago County Sheriffs Department and the Winnebago County Coroners office for the kindness and compassion that was shown to them.Also, a special thank you to their neighbors who provided wonderful support .A Memorial Service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, December 7, 2012 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Rev. Bobby Sheets officiating.Visitation Thursday from 58 p.m. and on Friday from 1 p.m. until time of the service.Memorials may be made to the family for the use to be determined at a later date.