Dean F. Harlan

Dean F. Harlan, 74, of Rockford, passed away on Thursday March 24, 2022 at Cherryvale Place surrounded by love and 2 of his daughters. He was born October 13, 1947, in Baraboo, WI, the middle son of 3 boys to Bruce M. & Winifred H. (Newell) Harlan. He graduated from Boylan High School, class of 1965. He attended Rock Valley College. He served his country during the Vietnam War, serving in the US Navy from 1969 to 1973. He earned a National Defense Service Medal. During his career, he was a Heavy Machinery Design Engineer working for Ingersoll. As a side job, he started refereeing on a dare, which lasted for more than twenty years. Dean enjoyed fishing, especially at Rock Cut State Park and the Four Lake; he was an avid sport fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Blackhawks. Dean loved doing puzzles and was known to many in his last years for his gallery of puzzle art. Most of all he loved coaching his daughters’ basketball and softball as well as supporting his grandchildren’s education. He was very proud that all of his children went on to college and earned their degrees.
Survivors include children, Candice (Nick Schneider) Harlan, Theresa Monson, Timothy Harlan and Lara (William) Harlan-Kitchen; grandchildren, Corbyn, Cassie, Marie, Noah, Matty and Ryan; Aunt Patricia Kane and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by parents, daughter Danielle Lee, two brothers and his beloved fur baby, Trooper.
Funeral service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 30, 2022 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel. Visitation from 9 a.m. until time of service. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel. Share online condolence or memories at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.