Bob Robert L. Willson

"Bob" Robert L. Willson, 65, Rockford, died at 8:08 a.m. Wednesday, April 20, 2011 in Park Strathmoor Nursing Home following a long illness. Born June 30, 1945 in Battle Creek, Iowa, son of Donald E. and Bernice M. Bunning Willson. Graduated in 1963 from Mapleton, Iowa High School. He was a U.S. Navy Vietnam Veteran and an Honorary Seabee. Former member of the Navy Club. Married Cynthia (Cindy) Mongan in the Lighthouse Church in Daysville on June 6, 1970. Employed by Rockford Powertrain (GKN) as a machinist for 32 years. Bob was a friendly man who enjoyed people and never met a stranger. He was a Cubs and Packer fan as well as enjoying NASCAR and basketball. He loved to garden and had great pride in his lawn that he was very particular about. He was a fan of the Cherry Valley Café where he met with friends, including his lunch buddy, "junkin" John, on a regular basis. Avid collector of toy tractors, especially Farmalls. Many good times were shared at tractor functions with their special friends, Dick (Nancy), Dave (Denise), John (Debbie) and good long-time friends, Dick and Joy. Bob's family was always the most important to him, and he loved them with all of his heart. Survivors include his wife, Cindy; daughters, Jane (Jason) Clevenger and Jodi (Jerry, II) Severson; grandchildren, Logan and Lukas Clevenger and LeAnn and Landon Severson; mother, Bernice Willson; brother-in-law, Steve (Cindy) Mongan as well as other in-laws and family members. Predeceased by his father. The family would like to thank the staff of OSF St. Anthony Medical Center's Neurological Intensive Care Unit and the E-Wing of Park Strathmoor for their thoughtful care. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 25, 2011 in Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. with Rev. Dr. Richard Wang officiating. Visitation from 4-6 p.m. Sunday in the funeral home. Memorials may be made to the family. To honor Bob in the best way, please dress casually and wear red if possible. Express condolences and share memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.