William "Bill" Thomas

William R. “Bill” Thomas, 77, of Byron passed away Monday, November 2, 2015 at Swedish American Hospital. Born May 17, 1938, the son of Alex and Natalie Thomas. He was a graduate of Oregon High School. Bill married Joan Garman on February 6, 1960. He retired from the Rockford Board of Education after 20 years. Bill enjoyed golf, hunting and fishing but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.
Survived by his wife, Joan; children, Michael Thomas, Amy Byes, Deanna Randels and Kristen (Eric) Christianson; grandchildren, Ryan and Tina Thomas, Nick and Cierra Carr, Dan and Paige Byes, Erin and Erik Gorzynski and Jordan Byes; great-grandchildren, Logan, Bella and Blake. Predeceased by his parents, and son, Christopher Thomas.
A celebration of Bill’s life will take place on Saturday, November 21, 2015 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the American Legion, 116 N. Union Street, Byron, Illinois. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family. To express online condolences, please visit: www.fitzgeraldfh.com.