Hughlin 'Hugh" John Ganske

Hughlin “Hugh” John Ganske, Jr., 77, Rockford, passed away Sunday, February 21, 2021, due to a long-term illnesss. He was born July 11, 1943, in Beaver Dam, WI, the son of Hughlin John and Ruth (Miller) Ganske, Sr. In 1961, he moved to Rockford and attended Rockford School of Business, and on August 30, 1975, he married Patricia Goral and had two sons, Brad and Joey. Hugh enjoyed sports, but particularly enjoyed playing baseball, and went on to play for 42 years with various teams. For 39 years, Hugh was an owner and distributor for Pepperidge Farm Cookies and Crackers, retiring at age 76. He enjoyed working and engaging with people on a daily basis. Hugh was a member of St. Bridget Catholic Church.
Survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Patti; his sons, Brad (Veronica) of Rockford and Joey (Laura) of Madison; his two special grandchildren, Olivia and Beckham; his siblings, Bob (Carol) , Ron (Joy), and Don (Kathy) Ganske; many nieces and nephews; his sister-in-law, Marie Borchardt and his aunt, Vivian Borkus, and his friend of 50 years, Ken Ring. Predeceased by his parents and by Ed Borkus and Dale Borchardt.
Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. on Friday, March 5, 2021, at St. Bridget Catholic Church, 600 Clifford Avenue, Loves Park, IL with livestream at www.stbridgetlovespark.org. Mask are required and social distancing guidelines will be followed. Memorials may be made to St. Bridget’s School. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory. Private graveside services will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.