George William Garner

George William Garner, 86, of Rockford, passed away at home surrounded by his family, on December 12, 2023. He was born on April 21, 1937, in Streator, Illinois, the son of George and Hazel (Hamilton) Garner. George married Norma Jean Kassebaum on November 17, 1956, in Rockford, spending 67 years together. He worked as an inspector at Sundstrand, retiring after 35 years. George was an avid car enthusiast, where he enjoyed restoring antique cars, attending car shows and local swap meets, and showing his 1951 Chevy, 1916 REO, and 1929 REO Mate at local shows and at the Smokin Coop at their Wednesday night car shows. He was a member of the REO Club of America. George was a generous, caring, supportive, and sometimes stubborn husband, dad, grandpa, and great grandpa.

He is survived by his wife, Norma Jean; daughters, Deanna (Doug) Graas and Danita Heaney; grandchildren, Ashley Graas, Jonathon (Rebecca Pitts) Graas, and Clarissa (James Lefeber) Heaney; great grandchildren, Annabelle Heaney, Kaitlyn Lefeber, and Brynlee Lefeber; brother, Walter Garner; and Clarissa and Alex’s father, Tony Heaney. He is predeceased by his parents; grandson, Alex Heaney; and infant sister, Rosanna.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Transitions Hospice.

Cremation rites have been accorded. Please share memories and condolences online at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.