Karl John Fricke

Karl John Fricke, 79, passed away on Friday, February 11, 2011 in Rockford. Karl was born July 29, 1931 in Sheboygan, Wisconsin to Karl E. and Leona Fricke. After moving to Rockford, he attended Rockford Public Schools and graduated from West High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force and was stationed in Germany during the Korean Conflict. In 1957, Karl married Kathleen Roche in Rockford. He went on to work at Benny's Cleaners and then began his career for the United States Post Office where he retired in 1989. Karl was predeceased by Kathleen in February of 2007.Karl was an avid Cubs Fan and he loved the Green Bay Packers. His favorite times were spending special moments with his family and friends. Karl loved people and he truly remembered everyone he ever met.Survivors include his children, David (Marjorie) Fricke of Winona, MN; Karen (Louis) Demarco of Rockford, Daniel (Jean) Fricke of Machesney Park and Karol Ann Fricke of Rockford; grandchildren, Scott (Chandra), Zachary and Andrew Fricke, Gabriel, Karl and Louis Jr. Demarco, and Lucas Fricke; two great-grandchildren, Brianna and Grace; many very special nieces and nephews and two special friends, Jim Galloway and Beth Heuer. Karl was predeceased by his parents, his wife, his sister, Jean Stewart and brother-in-law, Bill Stewart.Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church with entombment in Calvary Catholic Mausoleum. A visitation will be held on Monday, Feb. 14, 2011 from 5:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home - Mulford Chapel. There will also be a visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Holy Family Catholic Church prior to the Funeral Mass.