William Douglas Smith

William D. Smith, 83, of Rockford passed away peacefully on July 13, 2018 in his home. Born April 18, 1935 in Chicago, IL, the son of William Martin and Elizabeth Morton. Bill’s life was filled with many adventures as he raised himself on the streets of Chicago. He was an enterprising young man who tackled his first sales job at the age of 10, selling evening editions of the Chicago Sun Times in the Bars of Chicago. On the side, he worked clean up duty at Wrigley Field to earn free tickets to see his beloved Cubs. Bill never met a challenge too difficult. He took on logging in Seattle and served in the US Navy. On June 18, 1961 he married his true love of 57 years, Sandra White. He graduated from the University of Illinois, class of 1965. Bill was a true salesman who collected stories and friends everywhere he went. He spent many years of his career at RV Evans Company, where he retired. Bill served as a Deacon and a passionate member of Third Presbyterian Church. Bill enjoyed leading the dance, traveling with his family and friends, boating on the Rock River and playing golf. He will be remembered most for his inspiring enthusiasm for life, his kindness and curiosity for all who he met and the unmeasurable love he shared with his family.
Survivors include wife, Sandra; daughters, Beth Smith, Laura (Dennis) Cagney and Amy (David) Powers; daughter- in-law, Linda (Sam) Castree; grandchildren, Lindsey, William, Gabe, Ellen, Daniel, Hannah, Brenna, Michelle, Grace and Carley. Predeceased by parents and son, Timothy.
Service will be 11 a.m. Thursday, July 19, 2018 at Third Presbyterian Church, 1221 Custer Ave, Rockford, IL 61103, with the Rev. Stephen Bowie officiating. The family will receive guests from 10 a.m. until time of service. Burial in Scandinavian Cemetery. In lieu of flowers family requests memorials to Third Presbyterian Church in his name. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, Il 61108. – Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com