Lester Eugene Church

Lester Eugene Church 95 of Rockford passed away peacefully at 7:55pm Wednesday April 21, 2010 in his home. Lester was born November 6, 1914 in Aurora, IL. Son of Clare and Martha Church. He married Olivia Sullivan in Joliet on June 14, 1941, she predeceased him on September 28, 2001. He was a civil employee of the government at Camp Grant during WW II. He went on to work at Barber Coleman for 31 years retiring in 1980. He was a charter member of St Bernadette Church. He was a long time member of the St. Bernadette's Senior Association. He was a big supporter of Meals on Wheels. He was also a member of the "Friends of Camp Grant." He played baseball and won the Joliet public league championship in 1936. He coached junior league baseball for many years, winning the Rockford City Championship with Larson Brothers in 1946. He graduated from Joliet Township High School and Joliet Junior College. He was a die-hard Cub, Packer, and Badger fan. He liked throwing horseshoes and riding his bike. His two favorite sports to play were baseball and ice hockey. He was a passionate traveler having visited all 50 states as well as Ireland. He was an enthusiastic lover of trains . He had a very strong relationship with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The family extends a big hug and thank you to Lucy Taylor who cared lovingly for our dad. Survivors include his daughter Marilyn Wallen of Rockton, son William (Marcia) of Rockford, grandchildren Gregory (Wendi) Wallen, Cory (Nicki Harker) Church, Kelcey (Timothy) Kast, Megan and Erin Church, great grandchildren Alex Church, Logan and Liam Kast, several nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by his parents, wife, three brothers and three sisters. Mass of Resurrection at 10 am Monday April 26, 2010 in St Bernadette Church. Burial in Greenwood Cemetery. Visitation from 3pm until 5pm Sunday April 25, 2010 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home 3910 N. Rockton Ave with a celebration of Lester's life at 5pm. Visitation also from 9am until 9:45 Monday in the church. Charitable gifts may be made to the family for memorials to be established at a later date. Memorials may also be sent to the charity of your choice.