Robert W. Ruefer

Robert W. Ruefer, 85, of Rockford passed away on Monday, October 16, 2017 at OSF St. Anthony surrounded by his family. He was born on February 2, 1932 in Rockford, the son of Aloysius and Mamie (Stewart) Ruefer. He married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Priest, on April 16, 1955. He was an electrician for nearly 50 years and a proud member of IBEW 364. Robert was an avid fisherman and golfer. Above all else, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and brother.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne; his children, Michael (Teresa) Ruefer, Tom Ruefer, Rodney (Denise) Ruefer, and Peggy (Cesar) Escuro; his grandchildren, Katie (Brian) Wilkin, Emily Ruefer, Jeffrey Ruefer, Mariah and Briana Beck, and Reece and Drake Escuro; his brother, Al (Jeannine) Ruefer; sisters, Ruby Plantz and Mary (Mark) Piere; and sister in-law, Janet Ruefer. He is predeceased by his parents, and brother, Harold.

Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, October 20, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Bernadette Catholic Church. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until time of service. Burial Calvary Cemetery. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com