Dorothy M. Foss, 102, of Rockford, passed away on February 3, 2026. She was born on September 3, 1923, in Rochelle, Illinois, the daughter of William and Irene (Schmidt)Smith. Dorothy attended Rochelle Grade School and High School. She married Erwin S. Foss on July 11, 1942, in Rochelle. Dorothy had a huge heart, protected everyone around her and was always there when you need her. Volunteered over 6,000 hours at the Rockford Memorial Auxiliary where she crocheted for decades gowns and hats for newborn babies for local hospitals. She had a passion for quilting, sewing, crocheting & ceramics. Most everything she made was gifted to someone else or to an organization.

Dorothy and Erwin's weekends were spent square dancing with friends & gardening during summer months, Winters were spent throughout the sunbelt in the camper.

With no formal education Dorothy and Erwin were truly teachers in every sense of the word. They gave their children the moral value and work ethic to succeed in life. Dorothy often said "grand children before anything else" & made sure the cookie jar was always full when they arrived for a fun filled time with her. Although not on earth she will live on in our hearts.

She is survived by her sons, Michael (Joanne) and Ronald; grandchildren, Christian(Amy), Aaron, Jerry, Julie, Michelle Massetti (Nick), Dawn; and several great grandchildren . Dorothy now joins for eternity her parents, husband, Erwin, son, Gary and sisters, Mabel, Norma, Verda and Catherine.

A Funeral Service will be on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, IL 61103, with a visitation prior to the service from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in Calvary
Catholic Cemetery.