John "Jack" Paul Didier

John Paul Didier (Jack), 87, Rockford, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2014 at home. Son of George Sr. and Angeline Didier. Graduated from St. Thomas Catholic High School 1944, WW II Navy Veteran and Purple Heart recipient. He was co-owner of Didier Greenhouses, Inc.

Jack was a devoted member of The Cathedral of St. Peter for more than 50 years and was an usher for 20 years. Member of the Knights of Columbus 4th Degree, Council 470 for 70 years. He was an avid golfer, bowler and Harley Davidson motorcyclist, once riding 1,000 miles in 1 day.

Predeceased by his oldest son, John P. Jr., his parents, George Sr. and Angeline, step-mother Idamae, siblings George Jr., Charlotte Wiles, Larry, Jerome, in-laws Mary, Sue, Dan Wiles and Augie Reese.

Survived by his children; Tom (Sandy), JoAnne (Gunner) Deery, Don (Gina), Patti (Marty) Weightman, Jim, Steve (Sue), David, Charles (Linda), 19 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, his siblings; Ed, Bill (Eva), Honey, sister in-laws Diane, Joan, and very close friend Lenora Manning and daughter Colleen (Scott) Oren family. Special thanks to longtime friend Ruth and home health caretaker and friend, Teresa.

Funeral Mass 11 am Thursday, May 1, 2014 at the Cathedral of St. Peter 1234 N. Church St. with Fr. Carl Beekman officiating. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, 3014 at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory (Riverside Chapel) 3910 N. Rockton Ave. Visitation will continue Thursday morning from 10 to 10:45 Thursday at Church. Memorials may be made to Poor Clares Corpus Christi Monastery, 2111 S. Main St., Rockford, IL 61102.