Joan R. Easter

Joan R. Easter, 85 of Rockford, passed away Sunday, August 18, 2024. Born on November 1st of 1938 to Leo and Eva (Fuesting) Esker in Harvey, Illinois. She graduated from Loretto Academy, an all-girls Catholic school in Chicago, Illinois and worked her first job at Fannie May on Michigan Ave. in Chicago, IL. She later worked at a local grocery store, where she met Richard Easter, and they married on June 15, 1957, and they spent over 47 years together, before his passing in 2004. She was a talented seamstress and singer in her younger years, singing for wedding ceremonies. Later in life, she had a passion for gardening, winning multiple ‘beautification awards’ in Hazel Crest, Illinois, where her five children were also raised. A devoted mother and caregiver, she cared for her husband, parents, and children. Her children then returned the favor by taking care of her when she no longer could. She was known for hosting large family gatherings with delicious food. Joan’s last five years were spent at Independence Village in Rockford, where she was highly loved by staff and residents, known for her beautiful smile. 

She is survived by her children, Michael (Marie) Easter, Jeffery (Theresa) Easter, Deborah (Melvin) Burger, John (Lisa) Easter, Jane (Brian) Farlow; grandchildren, Darren (Julie) Easter, Eron (Jesse) Santiago, Hannah Easter, Sam (Jennifer) Thomas, Mallory, Sarah, Benjamin Easter, Kristin (Sean) Templeman, Katelyn (Tyler) Woolbright, Brittney (Christopher) Bachand, Cassie, Zach Easter, William, Katherine, Claire, Emily Farlow; nine great-grandchildren; siblings, Marie (Jay) Ilch, Carol (Donald) Haid; and numerous nieces and nephews. Joan is predeceased by her husband, Richard; parents, Leo and Eva; in-laws, Earl and Gladys Easter; and siblings, Maurice Esker, and Donald Esker. 

A visitation for Joan will be held on Saturday, September 7, 2024, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108 from 10:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Independence Village at 3655 N. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61114 or to Transitions Hospice at 5100 E. State St. Ste 2, Rockford, Il 61108. The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff at Independence Village and Transitions Hospice for their love and care of Joan throughout her stay. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.