Stephen J. Appell

Stephen J. Appell, 69, of Cherry Valley passed away September 29, 2019 at Swedish American Hospital. Born November 2, 1949 in Monroe, WI, the son of Robert L. & Marilyn (Cashman) Appell. Graduated from Boylan High School, then later received his bachelors from Emporia State University. He retired after many years working at DCFS.
Steve loved Cherry Valley and the people of Cherry Valley loved him. In 1975 he was elected to the position of Village Trustee and then served on the Village Planning Commission until 1985 when he was elected as Village President. He spent the next 20 years advocating for the beautification of his community. He campaigned for the preservation of historical sites such as the barns. He fought hard to keep the quaintness, personality and identity of Cherry Valley. He was always looking for a place to plant trees around the Village. Steve was instrumental in founding a garden club and opened and showed his garden every year in the annual Village Garden Walk. In 2007 he was again elected as Trustee where he served the Village until his death.

Steve enjoyed jogging, biking, swimming, traveling and his dog Mort.

Survivors include siblings, David Appell, Christine Appell, John Appell, Cheryl Appell Ortiz, and Mike (Vicki) Appell. He was fond of all his nieces and nephews and a host of close friends he considered family. Predeceased by parents.

Service will be 6:30 p.m. Thursday, October 10, 2019 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Visitation from 4 pm until time of service. In lieu of flowers memorials to Carpenter’s Place, Cherry Valley Library, Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter or Anderson Japanese Garden. – Send online condolence at www.fitzgeralfh.com.