John R. Mehlbaum

John R. Mehlbaum, 71, of Rockford, IL passed away Friday, January 31, 2020. He was born April 23, 1948 in Augusta, Georgia the son of James and Mary (Mooney) Mehlbaum. John married Brenda Cantwell on September 30, 1978. He worked at Sundstrand, retiring after thirty five years. John was an avid sports fan, cheering on Notre Dame, the Steelers and San Francisco Giants or any team playing against the Bears. He enjoyed golfing, fishing, animals and his garden. John was extremely patriotic and a proud American. He combined his love of golf and his patriotism by founding the Hats for Heroes golf outing which raised funds for veterans. John was an active member of the Eagles Club for more than fifty years. He was a generous man with a sense of humor. John loved doing things for others with no desire to be recognized. He enjoyed his Pabst Blue Ribbon and his yearly Yuengling runs to Pennsylvania. Most of all John loved his family. He will forever be in the hearts and minds of those who knew and loved him.
Survived by his loving wife, Brenda; children, John Mehlbaum, April Mehlbaum Aumann and Andrea Mehlbaum; 3 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren, Mylee and Natalie; brother, James “Jimbo” (Kristie) Mehlbaum; several nieces and nephews and close cousins in Ashland, PA. Predeceased by his parents and sister, Veronica Seago.
Visitation will be held Saturday, February 8, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Rd. Rockford, IL 61108. A time of remembrance will take place at 12:00 p.m. Cremation rites accorded with Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in John’s name to Vets Roll, 1777 Gardner St, South Beloit, IL 61080. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfuneral.com.