Gerald W. Evans, Sr.

Gerald W. Evans, Sr., 74, of Rockford, passed away at River Bluff Nursing Home after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease; on Saturday, May 6, 2017, with his loving wife, Sharon, at his side. Jerry was born in Darlington, Wisconsin, on August 31, 1942; to parents Morris “Wayne” and Virginia (Douglas) Evans. He married Sharon Forney, on June 12, 1965, in San Diego, California. Together, Jerry and Sharon devoted their lives to raising their 5 children. Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Navy, serving as a Jet Engine Mechanic on the USS Kitty Hawk during the Vietnam War. He worked for more than 30 years at Chrysler Corporation in production. Jerry loved the Packers and Brewers, and always enjoyed a game of Bingo. After their children were raised, Jerry and Sharon enjoyed their time together traveling in their RV. Jerry will always be remembered as a thoughtful, and selfless man, who without hesitation put everyone else before himself. No matter the task, Jerry always found the time and the love to help someone in need. The greatest lessons in kindness are spoken without words, but with actions, which Jerry gave to us unconditionally. We are sad that he is now gone, but we’re all blessed to have shared our lives with him. His life and love will live now in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Sharon Evans; children, Nancy Evans, Dawn (Ted) Roethle, Gerald “Jerry” Evans, Jr., James (Lisa) Evans, Cindy (Craig) Smith; grandchildren, Justin Hillis, Skylar Evans, Sierra and Noah Roethle, Alex and Zach Evans, Andrew Thayer; Nathan, Carter, and Tori Evans; Mackenzie Smith; great grandson, Tristan Hillis; siblings, Dennis Evans, Gail (Robert) Kopp, Karen O’Dell, David (Becky) Evans, Jackie (Steve) Dawson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his parents. The Evans Family would like to thank the nursing staff of River Bluff Nursing Home and VNA Hospice for loving their Dad so much.

Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, May 12, 2017; at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108; with Rev. Randy Young officiating. A visitation will be held one hour prior to service on Friday. Burial and Military Honors will follow immediately at Arlington Memorial Park.