Wilson B. Howard

Wilson B. "Willie" Howard, 92, Rockford, passed away Friday, November 19, 2010, in his home surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born November 19, 1918, in Byron , the son of George and Barbara (Drabeck) Howard. Willie lived 43 years in Rockford, coming here from Byron. He married Julia Anna Krawczyk in Rockford on July 5, 1958. Willie was employed at Ingersoll Milling Machine Company in sales and service for 43 years. He officially retired in 1981, but continued working until he was 83 years old. He was a veteran of the Navy serving as a 3 rd Class machinist mate in the Philippines and South Pacific during WWII. Member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 3 rd degree member of Knights of Columbus Muldoon Council 470 and a 4 th degree member of the General Assembly 190, Holy Name Society, Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Navy Club, and the YMCA . Willie was an avid hunter, golfer, gardener, and fisherman.Survived by his wife of over 50 years, Julia; many nieces and nephews; and his ever faithful caregiver, Godchild and friend, Rhonda Peterson. Predeceased by his parents; infant son, George; and 13 brothers and sisters. The family wishes to thank Passages Hospice for their loving and compassionate care, especially, Kim and Liz. Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00am, Wednesday, November 24, 2010, at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, 201 Buckbee St., Rockford, IL, with Fr. Peter Sarnicki officiating. A luncheon will be served immediately following the services at church. Burial in the Byron Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00pm until 7:00pm on Tuesday, November 23, 2010, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Av. Rockford, IL 61103 and from 10:00am until 10:45am on Wednesday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials to Passages Hospice, 929 S. Alpine Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com