Stephen "Zeke" Stirlen

Stephen “Zeke” Stirlen, 75, of Cherry Valley, IL passed away on Wednesday, May 11, 2022.

He was born May 25, 1946 in Sigourney, IA the son of Ned and Marilyn (Miner) Stirlen. Zeke earned his Master’s degree in Education at Northern Illinois University. He married Elba V. Hehir in Chicago on August 10, 1968. He was a teacher and coach in Genoa Kingston for over 40 years. Zeke was very active in several bowling and golfing groups. He also took great pride in mowing lawns. Most of all, Zeke cherished his time spent with family and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. He will be dearly missed.

Those left to honor his memory include his wife, Elba; children, Selena Stirlen and Coley (Joe) Brickey; grandchildren, Jackson and Carter Brickey; siblings, Kathy Stirlen, Jim (Virginia) Stirlen and Susan (Jerry) Stirlen Dixon; aunt, Bee Gray; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; many special friends and former students. Zeke is predeceased by his parents and brother, Bill Stirlen.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Zeke’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association.

A memorial service will be held at 4:00 p.m. with visitation from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 25, 2022 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108.

Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com