Richard L. Stenlund

Richard “Dick” Stenlund, 85, of Rockford, passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025. He was born in Rockford, IL, on March 17, 1939, to Rudolph and Teckla (Nygren) Stenlund. Dick spent most of his life in the Rockford area, graduating from East High School. On April 1, 1981, he married Gloriadee (Burden) Stenlund in Daytona Beach, FL. Together, they opened House of Birds in 1999 and still held a passion for the store and animals 25 years later. Outside of work, Dick enjoyed staying active; golfing, fast-pitched softball, bowling, and fishing in Lake Okeechobee were some of his favorite past times. An avid Chicago sports fan, he could be found rooting for the Bears, Cubs, or Blackhawks. He was a longtime member of Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, serving as an usher.

He is survived by his children, Kirstin Stenlund, Mark Stenlund, Kelly Stenlund, Richard (Maria) Stenlund Jr., ChrisAnthony C. Shields, Timothy A. (Jennifer) Shields, Zachery M. (Sabrina) Burden; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; aunt, Doris Noreen; and of course, all his feathered and furry grandchildren that he adored so much. He is predeceased by his parents and loving wife, Gloriadee.

A celebration of his life will take place on Thursday, February 20, 2025, from 5:00 through 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Military honors will take place at 6:00 p.m. Following the service, food can be shared with the family at Machine Shed Restaurant, located at 7475 E. State St., Rockford, IL 61108, at the guests’ expense if you chose. To send your condolences online and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.