Wilbur J. Riley

Wilbur J. "Skeeter" Riley, 83Loving Father, Papa and BrotherWilbur J. "Skeeter" Riley, 83, Rockford, died Friday, November 9, 2012 in his home surrounded by his loving family. Born March 1, 1929 in Danbury, IA, son of Fred and Caroline Twitchell Riley. Graduated from Danbury High School in 1947. Married Frances Johnston on July 22, 1965 in Rockford. He was employed by Elco Industries for many years, and retired from Auto Guard at age 72. He was a longstanding member of St. Edward Catholic Church. He was an avid Cubs, Bears and Bulls fan and a loyal Boylan High School fan. Skeeter always became an instant friend to anyone he met.Survivors include his daughters, Stacy (Randy) Mitchell, Sherri (Jeff) Tietz and Lisa Gillespie (Bill Moore grandchildren, Grace, Ava, Liam and Noah Mitchell, Brandon Tietz and Benjamin Gillespie; brothers, Leroy (Dorothy) Riley, Jerry (Phyllis) Riley and Tom (Cheryl) Riley; sister, Arlene (Delton) Barton and numerous special nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his wife on February 13, 1990, parents, infant daughter, Michelle; brother, Cecil Riley and sisters, Virginia Wilcoxen, Darlene Riley and Rosalie Riley. The family would like to express their appreciation to the staff of Morning Star Village, especially his caregivers, for the empathetic and compassionate care they gave to Skeeter. Also, a special thank you to his friends, Dennis and Marge Smith and the friends he made with the Mall Walkers.Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 13, 2012 in St. Edward Catholic Church with Rev. Lorenzo Gonzalez officiating. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. until time of the service. Private family burial in Calvary Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Boylan Catholic High School Founder'¢s Memorial Program. Arrangements were completed by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.