Kenneth R. Bumphrey

Kenneth Ray Bumphrey, 79, of Rockford, died unexpectedly on Sunday, February 14, 2016 at Rockford Memorial Hospital. Born July 31, 1936 in Neponset Township, IL the son of Pearl and Marion (Foltz) Bumphrey. Ken joined the United States Air Force at the age of 17 and was stationed at Bentwaters Air Force Base in Bentwaters, England and during that time he met and married his loving wife, Joan Mary Evans. Together they had 5 beautiful children and being enlisted in the Air Force they lived on many bases, ranging from the United States to England. Ken retired from service on Oct. 1, 1973 after 20 years and 20 days. Finding a way to fill his time he was hired at the Greater Rockford Airport as a Line Service Technician for then, Hartzog Aviation (currently Raytheon). Ken finally, officially, retired after yet another 20 years of service and took time to enjoy sports, gardening and light remodeling. He was a comedian at heart and was a kind, caring and compassionate husband, father and grandfather. If you needed a hand, Ken was always there to lend one, to anyone at anytime. The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff at Rockford Memorial Hospital for the time and comforting way.
Survivors include his wife, Joan of Rockford; children, Sharon Hatfield; Deanna Fleming, Mark (Robin) Bumphrey, Alan (Gina) Bumphrey and Christina (Mark) Castronovo; grandchildren, Rachel (Erik) Johnson, Ryan Hatfield, Renee (Eric) Cupp, Adam (Christina) Fleming, Nathan (Abby) Fleming, Ian and Paige Bumphrey, Paul and Catalina Bumphrey and Isabella, Olivia and Sophia Castronovo; great grandchildren, Erica and Reese Cupp, Evan and Lauren Johnson; Owen, Ethan and Oliver Fleming and Kya Bumphrey; sisters, Joann, Sarah, Rose and Rita; sister-in-law, Daphne Evans and brother-in-law, Richard Evans . He was preceded in death by his parents; infant daughter, Susan Carol; brothers, Jim, Bob and Danny and sisters, Betty, Rebecca and Barbara.
Memorial visitation Friday, February 19, 2016 from 10-11 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel 1860 S. Mulford Rd. A private family service will be held at a later time.