John Henry Benney

John Henry Benney, 70, of Rockford, passed away on Tuesday, May 10 in his home surrounded by his family. Born October 23, 1940 in Richland Center, WI; son of Henry and Bernadine (Scully) Benney. Married Carol A. Wesorek (Wieczorek) on September 23, 1961. He served in the United States Air Force for 4 years. John worked at Rockford Products and later Elco as a header operator, retiring as supervisor. He also held many part-time jobs through the years, most recently JC Penney for 17 years. Member of St.Edward Catholic Church where he was the organist. He was a 4 th degree member of Knights of Columbus and was an EMT and ERT for New Milford Fire Department. John was an avid reader, enjoyed trains, airplanes, never missed an air show, and adored his pug, Pebbles.
Survivors include his wife of 49 frac12; years, Carol; children, Carolyn J. (Cory) Vangsness of Cherry Valley, Sandra Benney of Rockford, Janice Benney Allen of Rockford and Timothy (Carrie) Benney of Belvidere; grandchildren, Michael Burzell, Kyle and Karah Vangsness, Nathan and Nolan Benney; brother, Stephen (Melanie) Benney, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. Predeceased by his granddaughter, Shawn Cassey brother, James; infant brother, David and parents. Special thank you to the staff of Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center for the outstanding care they gave to John.
The funeral Mass will be offered by Father G. Black at 11:00am on Monday, May 16, 2011 at St. Edward Catholic Church with Father Michael Black officiating. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00am on Monday, May 16 at St. Edward Catholic Church. Memorials may be made to the family for a memorial to be established at a later date. Fitzgerald Funeral Home amp; Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family. To express condolences online, www.fitzgeraldfh.com