John Earl Massoth Sr., 76, Winnebago, passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, in Rockford. He was born on July 16, 1949, in Rockford, the son of Norman A. and Anna R. (Mackey) Massoth. He married Michele A. (Rush) Massoth the love of his life on March 14, 1981, and remained married for 36 years until her passing in June of 2017.

“Big John” worked as a building engineer for Rockford Public Schools for 30 years until his retirement in 2010. In retirement, he devoted much of his time to caring for his grandchildren, helping raise them and being a constant presence in their lives. He loved spending time with his family, especially his wife, Michele, his son John Jr., and his grandchildren. In the summers, you could find him and Michele in Northern Wisconsin fishing and spending time at “the shack” with family and friends. He also loved watching Payton and Reganne after daycare and school and taking them to the grocery store as babies created many fun stories and memories. The time he spent with his family was something he cherished deeply, and those memories will always be treasured.

He is survived by his son, John E. Massoth Jr.; his grandchildren, Payton Massoth and Reganne Massoth; his brother Norman Massoth; and his many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Michele; his brother Jim Massoth; his sister MaryAnn Massoth.

Services will be held on Thursday March 19, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Winnebago IL. The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. To share memories and condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com