Joanne E. Darland

Joanne Elaine Darland 78 of Rockford passed away Monday, July 20, 2015, at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Joanne was born May 6th, 1937, in Aurora, IL, the daughter of Arthur and Mary Palmquist. She grew up with her siblings, Marge and Kenneth, and graduated in 1955 from East Aurora High School in Aurora, IL. Joanne spent most of her adult life in Rockford, IL, raising her 6 children and enjoying spending time with her many grandchildren. Family was always very important to Joanne, as was giving back to her community. She was involved with many charitable organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Stephen Ministries, and the YWCA, and also worked for many years in the Rockford Public Schools. Many family members, loved ones, and friends will always remember Joanne's kindness, warmth, and generosity.

Joanne is survived by her children, Michael (Terry) Darland, Jennifer (Jerry) Speyer, Ellen (Scott) Carney, Laura (Tom) Zarembski, Garrett Darland, Leanne (Mario) Panagiotopoulos; brother, Kenneth (Delores) Palmquist; and many loving grandchildren whom she cared for deeply.

She is predeceased by her parents; longtime friend, John Jarvi; grandson, Jacob Carney; brother, Buddy Palmquist; and sister, Marge (Les) Luke.

A memorial service for Joanne will be 4 PM, Saturday, July 25, 2015, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL, 61108, with Pastor Linda Cronebaugh officiating; with visitation at 3 PM until time of service. Memorial donations may be made in Joanne’s honor to Big Brothers Big Sisters or Linda K. White Center of Rockford. Funeral arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel.