Herbert F. Booth, an extraordinary man whose life spanned over a century, passed away on June 2, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois at 101 years old. Born in Newport, New Hampshire on May 17, 1925, Herbert was the eldest of eleven children to Fred and Gladys (Allen) Booth. Herb’s formative years were marked by service to his country during a time of great global upheaval. Between 1943 and 1946, he served with distinction in the United States Army during World War II where he was honorably discharged. In 1950 he moved to Chicago to pursue education in diesel automotive and mechanics. At this time he met the love of his life, Gladys. They married in 1951, started their family, and moved to Streamwood, Illinois in 1958. His decision to go into automotives and mechanics charted the course for much of his ensuing career and passions. For over four decades, Herb dedicated himself as a machinist to American Flange, retiring in the late 1980s. Alongside his beloved wife, Gladys, they relocated to Senecaville, Ohio, where they shared many cherished years until her passing in 2003.

His mechanical prowess extended beyond the workshop; a passionate and avid restorer of antique cars, Herb could often be found under the hood well into his ninth decade, still changing engines at the astonishing age of 92. At 100 years old, Herb had the honor of visiting Prairie View Elementary School, where he delighted in sharing stories and memories with children on Veterans Day. His affection for children was sincere, and this encounter was a truly special occasion that brought Herb and the children great joy. In 2019, the steady rhythms of life drew him back to Rockford, Illinois, where what was to be a brief stay at Charter Senior Living blossomed into a longer, fulfilling chapter surrounded by companionship and care that he came to deeply appreciate.

Herb’s personality was marked by a true gentlemanly nature; ever courteous, he was known to hold doors for all, including those in wheelchairs and others requiring a gentle hand. His warmth was coupled with a remarkable wit; an accomplished jokester, one of Herb’s love languages was laughter, you could often find him teasing and finding joy in brightening the days of those around him. This demeanor left an enduring mark on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path. In his final days, Herbert was blessed to spend cherished time with his children and so much of his family. It was a true testament to the close bonds that gave his life added meaning. His passing closes a chapter rich with accomplishment and character, but his essence: the lessons of kindness, resilience, and humor, will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his son Ronald (Susan) Booth, and his daughter Linda (Daniel Bryan) Van Every; grandchildren April (Daniel) Sanko, Amy (Christopher) Iwanski, Jason Van Every, Jenny (Dustin) Sievers, Timothy McKeehan, Tommy McKeehan,Tammy Skinner, Travis (Iris Rose) McKeehan, Tracy McKeehan, and Trisha (Tanner) Battishill; great grandchildren; Morgan, Mallory, Carson and Maryn Iwanski, Chloe, Cailey, Jeffery, and Cayden Van Every, Brayden and Brinley Sievers, Sage McKeehan, Aubrey and Avery McKeehan, Tierra McKeehan; great-great granddaughter, Maliyah Armijo, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Gladys; their daughter Lois McKeehan; grandson Jeffrey Van Every, grandson in law Michael Skinner; his parents and all 10 of his siblings.

Cremation rites were accorded to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. A graveside service will take place at a later date in Senecaville Cemetery in Ohio, where he will be laid to rest next to Gladys. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com