Gerald Francis Hillenbrand

Gerald Francis Hillenbrand, 92, of Rockford, passed away on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born January 4, 1917 in Keenesburg, CO; son of Frank and Laura (Finger) Hillenbrand. Married Myrtle Hubbs in 1942, she predeceased him in 1982. He was a warrant officer in the Air Force serving for 27 years during WWII, Korean Conflict and Viet Nam War, he retired in 1967. Gerald married Thelma Mitchell in Colorado in 1983. He was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church, was a 3 rd Degree Knights of Columbus and a member of Tuscan Lions Club. He was also an avid golfer and woodworker.

Survivors include daughters, Lois (William) Bronzi, Carol (Dean) Irlbeck, Mary Hillenbrand, Joan Hillenbrand; daughter-in-law, Connie (Steve) Rasmussen; Sister, Camilla Lococo; brothers, Frank (Betty) Hillenbrand and Harry (Betty) Hillenbrand; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews; step-son, Greg (Irmeli) Mitchell; Predecease by his wives, Myrtle and Thelma, his son, Michael Hillenbrand, sister, Jean Fritz, step-daughter, Melba Mitchell.

Funeral Mass will be 1pm, Wednesday, September 2, 2009, in Holy Family Catholic Church, 4401 Highcrest Rd. Rockford, IL. With Monsignor Thomas Bales officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. The Rosary will be recited at 6 pm. Burial in Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Co. on Friday, September 4, 2009. Send online condolences to wwwfitzgeraldfh.com.