Evelyn I. Dresser

Evelyn I. Dresser, 96, of Rockford, passed away on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Evelyn was born in Monroe Center, IL, on September 22, 1929, the daughter of Ernest and Bertha (Bischoff) Mellor. She was raised in Monroe Center and graduated from High School, Class of 1947. Evelyn then went on to work as an executive secretary for Barber Colman. She married Gene C. Dresser at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Lindenwood on September 9, 1950. Evelyn was strong in her faith and was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran and later attended St. Mark Lutheran Church where she was active in several bridge and quilting groups. She was also proudly involved in square dancing, tennis, golf and bowling leagues and was very athletic and active in many sports. She loved to cheer on the Chicago White Sox, Bears and Bulls. Evelyn enjoyed spending her time sewing, quilting, knitting, gardening, canning, fishing and just being outdoors. She had a great passion for traveling and was able to see many sights and places all around the world.

Evelyn is predeceased by her parents, Bertha and Ernie Mellor, husband, Gene, youngest daughter, Marceil, oldest son, Steven, sister, Margaret and brothers, DeWayne and Jim.

Surviving relatives include her children, Marcia Strothoff, Marlene (Deryl) Carter and Stew (Sandy) Dresser; grandchildren, Corryne (Mac), Stephanie (Jake), Katy (Waylon), Matt (Layla), Heather (Joe), Deryn (Claudia), Carrie (Jon), Jenny (Greg), Seth (Sarah), Ben (Mary), Adam and Johanna (Trey); great-grandchildren, Dominic, Caleb (Ava), Alexis, Abigail, Rocco, Mia, Mac, Aidan, Bella, David, Cory, Camden, Holly, Mcoy, Niko, Evangeline, Lila, Dion, Sophia, Theodora, Abel, Stylianos and Hermoine.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Evelyn’s name to Northern Illinois Hospice or a hospice of your choice.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at St. Mark Lutheran Church, 675 N. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61107. Visitation will also be at the church from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Luncheon will follow the service and private family committal will conclude in Monroe Center Cemetery.

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