Marjorie Ann "Margie" Zies

Marjorie Ann “Margie” Zies, 79, Rockford, passed away Friday, January 8, 2016, in her home. She was born March 6, 1936, in Rockford, the daughter of Helmer and Margaret (Gibbs) Gustafson. Margie married William “Bill” Zies in Rockford on December 21, 1963. Bill passed away in Rockford on August 31, 2012. She was a registered nurse at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center for over 40 years, retiring in 2001. After her retirement Margie remained active as an “Angel” for the patients. She enjoyed cooking, photography, and loved helping people. She enjoyed participating in the Lifescape Community Services Senior Follies for over 20 years. Margie would always put the needs of others before herself. She was a longtime member of St. James Catholic Church.
Survived by her daughter, Cindy Kalstrom of Rockford; her son, William “Bill” (Sumie) Zies of Japan, her grandchildren, Jason and Erich Kalstrom and Rayna and Marisa Zies; her great-granddaughter, Leah; her sister, Ruth (Carey) Gates of Albany, GA; her nieces, Debbie Gates Devane and Tracy Gates Young both of Albany, GA; her nephews, Bob, David, and Roland Gustafson; many great nieces, great nephews, and many special friends. Predeceased by her husband, Bill, her parents, and her brother, Robert Gustafson. Margie’s family would like to give special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff at OSF Cancer Center, OSF Hospice Care and Fr. William Wentink, and special neighbor, Irma Hoffert, for all of their kind and compassionate care during her illness.
Funeral Mass will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, January 15, 2016, at St James Catholic Church, 428 N. 2nd St., Rockford. Burial in Sunset Memorial Gardens. Visitation from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 14, 2016, at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford and from 10:00 A.M. until 10:45 A.M. on Friday at the church. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.