Larry J Fletcher

Larry Joe Fletcher passed peacefully at home in Rockford Illinois, on Wednesday, November 6th, 2024. He was 83 years old. He was born on December 20th, 1940, to Helen and Shannon Fletcher. Larry was born in Worthington, Missouri and raised in Rockford, Illinois, "boy" was very close and connected to his family and three sisters. After graduating from Rockford East High, Larry went on to serve in the United States Air Force Military Police in the Philippines. Upon his return stateside, Larry married Susan on October 25, 1986, who he loved more than life itself. He embarked on a 37-year career as an assembler at Sundstrand. “Meat” was a quick-witted, fun-loving man and an absolute joy to be around. He was always willing to lend a helping hand or make the airport run to grab a loved one. He enjoyed playing softball, taking in riverside walks, he even managed an infamous “299” bowling game (he still had the commemorative ring that lone stubborn pin), and his deep hankering for his mother's cinnamon rolls cannot be denied. Nothing can come between the love of a son and his mother...or her cinnamon rolls. As an avid memorabilia collector and seller of model cars, pop culture toys and sports cards, he knew better than to turn down a good garage sale, antiques mall or flea market bargain hunt. Larry spent quite a few years at the Rockford Speedway taking in their Wednesday night race programs as well as regional custom car and air shows. His enthusiasm for such events and collecting ephemera was infectious, rubbing off on all who knew him. He was a friend of Bill W. and a friend to countless others. All in all, “GL” was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend and a charmer to those who knew him. A "corker" with perfect blue eyes and perfect head of silver hair, Larry will be missed.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his loving wife of nearly 40 years, Sue; children Robert (Bonni) Fletcher, Tricia (James) Kitelinger, Teri (Andrew) Lesniewski and David (Bianca) Naze; grandchildren Bria (Josh) Horanburg, Amanda (Brock) Johnson, Kara Kjenner, Cole Kitelinger, Elijah Lesniewski, Noah Lesniewski, Drew Lesniewski, Oliver Lesniewski, and Elliot Lesniewski; great-grandchildren Kellen and Spencer Johnson; sisters Lucy Mantello, Sheri (Walt) Smith, Judy (Dennis) Luinstra and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Shannon and Helen; great grandchild Baby H; his brother-in-law Frank Mantello and his niece, Tammy Mantello. A very special thank you to Dr. Fumo, the girls at the Swedish American PT, and Serenity Hospice for all of the care and compassion they showed to Larry and the family.

A visitation will take place on Monday, November 11, 2024 from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, Illinois 61103. Visitation will continue on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service, 11:00 a.m. at the Fitzgerald Rockton Chapel with Pastor Dr. Wayne Hodges officiating. Burial to follow at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Williams Syndrome Association. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com