Dorothy Z. Colvin

Dorothy Z. Secrist Colvin, 84, lifelong Rockford resident, died at 8:50 a.m. Thursday, July 9, 2009 in her home.  Born March 8, 1925, daughter of George A. and Frances E. Doty Secrist.  Graduated from Harlem High School in 1943 and continued her affiliation there by being involved with the Harlemites.  Married Robert H. Colvin in Oregon on August 23, 1974. Dorothy had been employed by several local businesses through the years, including Elmers Tap and Arrow Liquors.  She was  an active member of the Blackhawk Athletic Club.  She loved camping, gambling trips and bingo, but was always most passionate about spending time with her family and family gatherings.   Survivors include her husband, Robert; children, Ronnie (Luan) Fisher, St. Petersburg, FL, Roger (fianca©, Judy) Fisher, Rockford, Kevin Fisher, Rockford, Denise (Dave) Stone, Cherry Valley and Sharleen Fisher, Machesney Park; grandchildren, Kim (Joe) Camaratta, Carlsbad, CA, Tracey Fisher, Loves Park and Evan and Carley Stone, Cherry Valley.  Also survived by her great-grandchildren, Nicole and Nicolas Camaratta, Carlsbad, CA; brother, George Secrist; former husband,Wesley Fisher and special friend, Dotty Boyd.  Predeceased by her parents; sister, Edna Mae; daughter, Diane and son, Kyle.  Her family would like to give special thanks to Dr. Craig Rogers and his staff, Rosewood Care Center and Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center for the outstanding love and care given to Dorothy.   A memorial service will be held at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2009 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Ave. with Rev. Brenda Byrne, chaplain of Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center, officiating.  Visitation from 11:00 a.m. until time of the service.  An Open House and Celebration of Dorothys life will also be held from 11:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the Blackhawk Athletic Club, 2023 Broadway on Saturday, July 25, 2009.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Northern Illinois Hospice & Grief Center or Noahs Ark.  Condolences and memories can be shared at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.