Edward C. Stanton, Rockford, passed away on Sunday, February 15, 2026. He was born on December 4, 1941, in Bridgeview, Illinois, the son of John and Mildred Stanton. He married the love of his life Velma Stanton in 1968, where he remained a loving and devoted husband until her passing in April of 2023.

He graduated from Argo High School In 1959. In his career, he worked as a Bridgeview police officer and later as a Supervisor for General Motors, retiring after 30 years.

Ed loved spending time with his family, golfing, dancing, cheering on his Chicago teams, reading and gardening. He was a great bowler, loved telling stories about growing up, and being outside birdwatching.

He is survived by his children, Sandy (John) Rabenda, Cindy (Leon) Mayberry, Rina Rogers, Barb (Dave) Hovey, Pam (Chris) Kaminski and Terri O’Hern; his grandchildren, Johnny (Katie), Brian, Dani (Justin), Bobby (Shelly), Late Zachery, Taeylor, Kristy (James), Kyle, Kelly, Brett, Heather, Josh (Mia), Madison, Kylie; his great grandchildren, Sydney, Greyden, Parker, Nico, Logan, Ashlynn, Braedon, Kella, Reagan, Callie, Oliver, Sage and Grayson; Dear brother to the late John (Late Doris) Stanton, Late Jean Stanton, Late Beverly Wilson, Late Jimmy (Late Judy) Stanton, Late Pat (Late Tom) Norris, Late Bud (Georgiann) Stanton, Sharon (Late Gus) Binkowski, Late Billy (Late Pat) Stanton, Dolly Stanton, Cathy (Late Gary) King, Bonnie Mladucky, and Tom (Rosemary) Stanton, and was a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by parents, John and Mildred Stanton, and his wife of 54 years, Velma Stanton.

He was a beloved husband, father, son, uncle and friend whose strength and steady presence meant everything to those who knew him. Providing guidance, laughter, and unwavering support to his family. His generous spirit and kind heart left an indelible mark on their lives. He will truly be missed.

A visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., a Funeral service will follow the visitation at 3:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford IL, 61108. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.