Donald G. Edwards

“In Loving Memory of Don Edwards”

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband, dad, and papa, Don “Donald” George Edwards, 85, of Belvidere on Thursday, April 2, 2026. We made the intentional decision to bring Dad home from the hospital, so he could be surrounded by love and comfort when he was called “home.”

Don was born in LaSalle, Illinois, on June 9, 1940, the beloved son of Donald and Minnie (Sjaardema) Edwards. On April 11, 1964, Don married his “peanut,” Pam DelFiacco, at St. James Catholic Church in Rockford. Their love story was one of devotion and partnership, and on April 11th, they would have celebrated 62 years of marriage.

Family was at the heart of Don’s life. He cherished his time with loved ones and upheld family traditions that brought everyone together. His strong bond with his daughters and grandsons was a source of pride and joy and his influence and warmth will forever live in their hearts.

Don’s passions extended beyond family. He enjoyed playing golf, racquetball, basketball, football, euchre and trap shooting. He was also a proud coach of the I.O.B.s slow pitch softball team, where he built many long-lasting friendships along the way. Don also coached Little League football in Rockford and was a dedicated supporter and coach of his grandson’s sporting teams, attending their football (“Another Stillman Valley touchdown”), motorcross, basketball (with #12 being his favorite) and baseball games.

A passionate Chicago sports fan, Don’s enthusiasm for his teams was well known. He also had a deep love for waterfowl hunting, cherishing not just the sport but the camaraderie it brought—especially the memories and cherished times spent alongside his dad, grandsons, and his close-knit group of hunting buddies.

Don’s legacy is one of loyalty, humor, resilience, and unwavering love. His spirit, zest for life, and devotion to family will continue to inspire and comfort all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the many special caregivers who helped care for Don. Their dedication meant the world. We also deeply appreciate and love Don’s friends, whose visits to the hospital, to his home, and their unwavering support over the years brought us all comfort and joy.

With all of his medical challenges, Don’s spirit never wavered. He faced each battle with courage and tenacity, continuing to fight up to his last breath. He worked, played, and loved with all his heart. He truly is our “Superman.”

Don is survived by his loving wife, Pam Edwards; children, Cherie Stokes and Laura (Pete) Brown, one brother, Bill Sjaardema, grandchildren, Matthew (Michelle) Whitlow, Branden Whitlow, Mark Stokes, Garret (G-man), Josh (his right hand) and Adam Brown, Matt (Danielle) Stokes and Haley (Jake) Jevitz; great-grandchildren, Londynn, Braxton, Stevie Jo, Leyah, Sally Ann, Ford, George, Cal and Baby Lucy due in August.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., immediately followed by a funeral service at 4:00 p.m., located at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Don’s name to the Edwards family to be established at a later date.

Share online memories and condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com