Gregory C. Gresenz

Gregory C. Gresenz, 85, of Rockford and Winnebago (1974-2016) passed away in his home with the presence of loving family on Thursday, November 9, 2017. He was born on December 29, 1931 in Kansas City, MO, the son of Cecelia Dyer. He was raised in Wisconsin and married his love, Janet A. Kennedy on February 15, 1958 in Madison, WI. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1951 until 1973 and remained in the Reserves until his passing. He completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska, Omaha and later his graduate degree from Loyola University, New Orleans. After retiring from Air Force, he worked as a pharmaceutical sales representative for Smith Kline and French laboratories until retiring in 1995. He enjoyed time with his grandchildren, assisting whenever needed. He enjoyed the peacefulness of nature and quiet time at his cottage on Lake Wisconsin, as well as time spent with his family. He was a life time member of the Roman Catholic Church and member of St Patrick Church where he volunteered for many years in different capacities.

He is survived by his wife, Janet, his children; Gregory (Pam) Gresenz II, Kathleen Rilott, Patricia Gyorkos, Timothy Gresenz, Mary Gresenz, Susan (Dennis Schlichter) Gresenz; his grandchildren, Kristin Gresenz, Kyle Gresenz, Bryan Rilott II, Adam (Kaylynn) Rilott, Taylor (Kirsten) Gyorkos, Alyssa Gyorkos; great grandchildren, Adeline Rilott, James Rilott, Baby Gyorkos arriving April 2018; Aunt Loretta Dyer, two half-sisters and a half-brother. He is predeceased by his son, Jeffrey Gresenz, mother, Cecelia, half-sister, Jean, Uncle Norbert Dyer, son in laws; Bryan Rilott I and Christopher Gyorkos.

A loving thank you to Fhey Washburn, caretaker, and Patti Gyorkos for making this last year at home with wife possible, as expressed by Greg up to hours before he passed. Also a special thank you to the physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses and all the staff at OSF Cancer Center. A heartfelt thank you to Andrew for greeting Greg at the door every visit, with a big smile, warm heart and kind conversation.

Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, November 20, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Patrick Church, 2505 School Street, Rockford. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of service. Entombment Calvary Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, memorials to St. Patrick Catholic Church appreciated. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com