Dominic "Don" R. Gugliuzza

Dominic “Don” R. Gugliuzza, 82, Rockford, passed away Sunday, August 7, 2022, in his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 12, 1939, in Rockford, the only son of Joseph and Theresa (Fertitta) Gugliuzza. He attended Barbour Elementary School, Washington Junior High School and Rockford West High School graduating in 1957. Don entered the Navy in 1958, serving in the Pacific Fleet Mobil Photographic Unit. He continued serving by joining the Rockford Fire Department for 15 years during which time he continued his education receiving a BS from Northern Illinois University and a MPA from Syracuse University. Taking a short pause to try his hand as an entrepreneur in Roswell, NM, he returned to the fire service as Emergency Services Coordinator of Chaves County, NM. In 1988, he returned to Rockford to be closer to family. He worked as a BSA district executive culminating his scouting activity with his son from Cub Scouts thru Eagle Scout. Don finished his working years with the City of Rockford as a Supervisor of Zoning and Subdivision in 2002. Retirement meant more time for pursuing new experiences like substitute teaching, obtaining a realtor license, volunteering with Mended Hearts at SwedishAmerican Heart Hospital and reviving a love of fishing, golf and “couch coaching” his favorite Chicago Bears and Bulls. His greatest achievement was the love of family, community and country. Don leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Suzanne “Suzie” (Lundin); his daughters, Cary (Brandt) Stata and Christy Gugliuzza; his son, Gregory (Michele); 10 grandchildren; 5 great-grandchildren and his grand puppy, “Milo”.
Memorial services will be held at 1:00 P.M. on Friday, August 19, 2022, at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 3300 Rural St. with Reverend Scott Stolberg officiating. Visitation will be from11:00 A.M. until 12:45 P.M. on Friday at the church. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl. Memphis, TN, 38105. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.