Robert J. Datschefski

Robert J. Datschefski, 82, passed away at 12:40 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2009 after a long illness. Born June 26, 1926 in Sandwich, IL. Married Margaret Sterner on October 11, 1951. Served in the U.S. Army. Spent most of his career working in retailand property management including Nihan amp; Martin and D.J. Stewart. Retired from Rockford Constant Velocity in 1993. Member and past president of Alpine Kiwanis. Long time member of Emmanual Episcopal Church. His hobby was golf but his passion was his family - especially his great grandchildren with whom he built lifetime memories. Survivors include wife Margaret; daughter Mary (Richard) Mandzen; three grandchildren, Tammy McNeany, Rick (Angie) Mandzen, and Vicki Johnson; five great-grandchildren, Mark Mandzen, Eric Mandzen, and Lauryn Mandzen, Devyn McNeany, and Maiya Johnson; brothers, Clarence (Sherry) Freeland and Richard Freeland of Sandwich; Sisters Louise Foster of Salome, Az, Jessie Haas of Plano, and Diane Haas of Sandwich. Predeceased by parents. Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, March 5, 2009 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church with the Rev. Pamela M. Hillenbrand officiating. Visitation from 10 10:45 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials to Shelter Care Ministries, 412 N. Church St. Rockford, IL 61103. Arrangements made by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Send online condolences to the family at www.fitzgeraldfh.com