Glenn Olen Patterson

Glenn Olen Patterson, 67, Rockford, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, November 27, 2022. He was born on February 14, 1955, in Austin, TX, the son of James and Frieda (Towns) Patterson. Glenn was a graduate of Rockford East High School. He then received his associate degree from Rock Valley College and his bachelor’s degree from Rockford College. Glenn then continued his education and received a master’s degree from Northern Illinois University. He received a second master’s degree from Rockford University. Glenn married the love of his life, Mary Schaefer, in Rockford on May 28, 1974. He was a physical education teacher, coach and school administrator for three decades in Rockford and then Wisconsin. He took on his role of director of the Blackhawk Boys and Girls Club in retirement. Glenn was very involved with his family and was very active in the lives of his children. He was a member of Forest City Church and a past member of St. Edward Catholic Church. Glenn was an avid Green Bay Packer fan and was usually wearing his Packer gear when you saw him.

Survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Mary; his children, Cory Patterson, Kevin Patterson, Coffey (Justin) Wright, and Clint Patterson; his grandchildren, Natia Patterson, A’Mayah Wright, Zaynah Moen, Xavier, Ava, and Juliana Patterson, Justice and Jordan Wright, and Eli Patterson; his siblings, Valerie, James, Greg, Janette and James; many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents and his sister, Jewel Michelle.

A visitation will be held from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Monday, December 5, 2022, at Forest City Church, 1280 S. Alpine Rd. Rockford and again from 11:00 A.M. until 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday at the church. The funeral service will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at Forest City Church. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.