Julie A. Ulrich

Julie A. Ulrich Of Rockford Loving Mother and Grandmother Julie A. Ulrich, 78, of Rockford, died on Monday, December 22, 2008 peacefully in her home, surrounded by her family, after a long, courageous battle with cancer and other health issues. Julie was born September 26, 1930 in Rockford, the daughter of Leroy and Mabel (Emerson) Green. Julies childhood was formed by her fathers multi-term service in the Illinois House of Representatives and then her mother being the first woman in Winnebago County elected to a statewide office and also serving seven terms in the Illinois House of Representatives. Julie loved politics and was proud of her conservative ideals and "proud to be an American" beliefs. She married Henry Walden in 1949 and had three children. In 1965 she married Paul Ulrich and they welcomed a son. Life was not easy, but her years with Paul were her happiest and most carefree. She spent most of her adult life as a single mother who worked hard to provide for her children and her sacrifices did not go unnoticed. Her determination, independence, sense of dignity and strong moral compass are qualities that she has passed on to her loved ones. Julie is survived by her children, Jim Walden, Ginger (Tim) Sreenan, Dan (Becky) Walden, and David Ulrich; her stepdaughter, Sue Ulrich Hall; her grandchildren, Matthew (Anita) Walden, Buck (Rebecca) Walden, Eddy Walden, Sarah Sreenan, David Sreenan, and Elizabeth Ulrich; her great-grandchildren, Madeline, Sam and Judd Walden; her loving brother, Jim (Gracie) Green, and sister, Jean Fuller, and numerous nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Paul; sisters, Joanne Speer and Dolly Belter; parents, Leroy and Mabel Green, and grandson, Mark Walden. Special thanks to Northern Illinois Hospice, especially her nurse, Sue: Dr, Susan DeGuide and nurse Julie; Dr. Roy and Dr. Zarnke; her loyal friends, Shirley, Nancy, and Tim Butler; and her beloved companion, Wally the cat. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. with Rev. Dr. William R. Kerr, Sr. officiating. Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until time of service at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center, 4215 Newburg Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Family and friends may