Paul Wilhelm Jr.

Paul “Big Money” Wilhelm Jr., 77, of Rockford, IL, passed away on Monday, March 18, 2019.

Paul was born in Marion, IN on January 16, 1942, son of Paul Sr. and Martha (Cochran) Wilhelm. He married Diane (Ort) Wilhelm in December of 1987. She passed away in 2009. Paul will be most remembered for the special love he had for his grandchildren as well as his passion for gambling, camping and the outdoors. He will be dearly missed.

Surviving relatives include his children, Terrie (Kevin) Jackson, Tracie (Philip) Moe, Kim (David) Carter, Marco (Bernadette) Martinez who was like a son to Paul, Jody Richards and Joel (Jess) Richards; grandchildren, Ashley, Andrew, Kourtney, Genelle, Stefanie, Terrie and Alex; great-grandchildren, Max, Gavin, Makenzie, Adian, Andre and Ameeliana; sister, Diane Martha Wilhelm of Indianapolis, IN. Paul was also known as “Papa” by many including numerous step-grandchildren and foster grandchildren. He is predeceased by his parents, wife, Judy Williams; wife, Diane Wilhelm and 7 siblings.

A gathering of family and friends will take place from 5 – 7 p.m., immediately followed by a memorial service at 7 p.m. on Friday, March 22, 2019 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave., Rockford, IL 61103.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com