Erlene M. Martin

Erlene Marie Martin, 82, of Rockford, passed away on Friday, July 29, 2022 at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Erlene was born in Rockford on April 3, 1940, daughter of Robert and Frances (Johnson) Whitehead. She married Paul Andrew Martin on October 2, 1959. Erlene graduated from Rockford East High School, Class of 1958. She valued the importance of work and was employed with the City County Planning Commission for many years, as well as in the medical field and doctor offices. She finished her career in insurance and retired from UnitedHealthcare as the Vice President of repricing. Erlene was a longtime member of St. Mark Lutheran Church where she was very active in the choir, bell choir, Sew and Sews and Ruth’s Circle. She was also very involved with Rock House Kids preparing meals and donating coats as well as knitting winter hats for Mosaic. She also had a mission of making many unique backpacks, pillows, smocks, winter hats, blankets and fleece fidgets for the early childhood program in Rockford Public Schools. Erlene loved doing this for the children to let each of them know they are loved and special. She had a great passion for taking care of her yard, beautiful landscape and enjoyed the the backyard oasis she created. Erlene also loved the Chicago Cubs. Most of all, she cherished her time spent with dear family, friends and loved ones.

Those left to honor Erlene’s memory include her children, Paula Martin, Dana Martin and Kristin (Dean) Martin-Fry; grandchildren, Daxx (Olivia) Spera, Trey Fry, Makayla Martin and Mason Martin; great-granddaughter, Louie Grace Spera; brother, Earl (Shirley) Whitehead; numerous nieces and nephews; special family members, Jennifer Kubista and Luanna Kish and many special friends and loved ones in her life. She is predeceased by her parents and her husband, Paul Martin.

The family would like to thank the staff of Serenity Hospice & Home, especially April, Cori, Abby and Dr. Kalweit for their care and compassion.

A time of food and fellowship will be held on Saturday, August 20, 2022 from 9am to 10am followed by a Celebration of Erlene’s Life at 10am located at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 675 N Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61107.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Erlene’s name to Rock House Kids or Rockford Rescue Mission.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com