Donald "Don" Buss

Donald “Don” Buss, 81, Belvidere, passed away and returned home to his Heavenly Father on Friday, January 19, 2018, at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Don was a firm believer in the grace of God and accepted Jesus Christ as his one and only Savior. He was born on March 24, 1936, in Chicago to Robert and Dorothy Boecker. Don was an Army veteran serving as a paratrooper, stationed in Germany. He married Anita Stewart in Dixon on April 30, 1960. Early in his life Don worked in Amboy for a local family farm and drove semi trucks. Don and his family later moved to Belvidere where he worked as an inspector at Chrysler for 30 years, retiring in 1996. Don lived an abundant life, led by his passion for reading (especially the Bible), and spending valuable time with family. Don had a special place in his heart for his six grandchildren and four great grandchildren attending their events and encouraging them to work hard and follow their dreams. He also enjoyed playing cards, going to estate sales, and watching his favorite TV show, Wheel of Fortune.
Survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Anita; his daughters, Brenda (Ken) Ziegler of Rockford, Carol (Bill) Brigham of Stillman Valley, and Terry Jefferson of Wilmington, NC; his grandchildren, Eric (Colette), Jake (Bitsy), Ashley, Nick, DeVante, and Brittani; his great grandchildren, Zoe, Jayce, Cynthia, and Franklin; his nephews, Dennis (Jody) Metter, Danny (Carol) Metter and Donald Metter. Predeceased by his loving sister and brother-in-law, Ruth and Bud Metter of Chicago.
Funeral services will be held at 6:00 P.M. Thursday, January 25, 2018, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd, Rockford. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until time of service on Thursday at the funeral home. Memorials in Don’s name may be sent Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary in honor of his beloved dog, Buffy, at 125 N. Madison St. Rockford, 61107 or to the Boys and Girls Club of Rockford, 1325 N. Johnston Av. Rockford 61101 . Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.Com.