Joel S. Kaplan

Joel S. KaplanJoel S. Kaplan, 53, Rockford, died at 2:55 a.m. Friday, October 16, 2009 in OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born January 21, 1956 in Jamacia, NY, son of Herbert and Betty (Owen) Kaplan. Received his bachelors degree from Beloit College. Married Debi Hirst on April 23, 2005 in Rockford. He was the owner of Forest City Communications . Former owner of Joels Restaurant which had previously been Jungle Jims. Active member of Zion Lutheran Church, where he was very involved with the youth group there, and was also involved with Toys for Tots for 10 years and the Lions Club Rose Day for 8 years, and was also a coach for the Nelson-Storm Football Team. Joel was a very caring, compassionate, and charismatic man. He played such a vital role in his familys life, and he will be impossible to replace. Joel always said, "In the family tree, Im the sap." But in our family he was the roots. He kept us together and always kept us grounded. Survivors include his wife, Debi; sons, Andrew Kaplan and Daniel Kaplan; step-daughter, Samantha Sievers; father, Herb Kaplan; sister, Jill Ankney; brother, Randy Kaplan; niece Jessie Ankney and nephew, Kyle Ankney. Predeceased by his mother. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 20, 2009 in Zion Lutheran Church with Rev. Loren Nielsen and Rev. Gerald Peterson officiating. Visitation from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. and from 10:00 a.m. until time of the service at the church on Wednesday. Memorials may be made to the family. Condolences can be shared at www.fitzgerald fh.com.