William G. Hood

William G. Hood, of Rockford, passed away peacefully Monday May 6, 2013 in his home after a lengthy battle with leukemia. He was born September 19, 1934 in Vincennes, Indiana, the son of William and Maude Hood. After graduating from high school he moved to Rockford in 1952, where he met his wife of over 56 years, Dru Dudley. (Married September 8, 1956 in Janesville, WI.) Bill joined the Army in 1957. He was Vice President of Dixon Automatic Tool prior to starting his own business, Hood Energy Systems. Bill was a Charter Member of Woodside Congregational United Church of Christ and a 32nd Degree Mason. Bill's passions were his family and sports. He relished being a grandfather, excelled in both basketball and golf, and was a die-hard Indiana University basketball fan. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles, Scrabble, and playing cards. Survivors include his wife, Dru; four children, Mark (Donna) Hood of Rockford, Jill Hood of Wiesbaden, Germany, Steve (Kellie) Hood of Rockford and James (Lezlie) Hood of Rockford; seven grandchildren: Melissa (Nick) Shutwell, Scott (Vanessa) Hood, Paige Hood, Faith and Tyler Hood and Kelsey, Zoe and Lucas Hood; one great-grandchild, Madelyn Shutwell; and several nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents, three brothers and two sisters. Special thanks to OSF Hospice and the VA Hospital in Madison for their care. Memorial service at 11 am Saturday May 11, 2013 at Woodside Congregational Church, 2324 South Alpine Road. Visitation from 9 am until service time Saturday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials to the church in Bill's name. The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. Express online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.