Lawrence “Larry” V. Yastrab, 76, of Machesney Park, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 21, 2026, surrounded by family in his home following a courageous 8-year battle with cancer.

Larry was born on April 25, 1950, son of Ben and Sara (Cudia) Yastrab. Beginning at an early age, the importance of the Catholic faith was instilled in him starting as an altar boy. He always felt a strong healing connection by attending Mass.

Larry graduated from West High School in 1968. He then attended Milwaukee School of Engineering and Rock Valley College. It was at RVC where he was randomly partnered with Linda during a bowling course. As if it were fate, the two began dating and later married in Rockford on July 28, 1978. After high school, Larry worked for Chrysler in Belvidere for 8 years before following his true calling into law enforcement. He received the prestigious Ervin H. Warren Award at the Police Training Institute of the University of IL, followed by 2 years in the Decatur traffic department. After Decatur, Larry made his way back home to Rockford where he spent 31 years with the Rockford Police Department, ultimately retiring as an investigator. Larry helped countless people in his time as a police officer and detective, modeling an incredible work ethic for his children and never losing his compassion for everyone in a challenging job. He loved the Rockford area and was proud to call it home.

Larry was well known for having a knack for fixing things even if it meant using zip ties. He had a prankster's sense of humor, was an avid reader and always appreciated a good meal. No one was a bigger Chicago Cubs fan than Larry, never missing a game, faithfully flying the "W" flag along the Rock River after every win.

The most cherished part of Larry’s life was his family. Together, with Linda, he raised three wonderful boys in a supportive and loving home. Spending time with them during the holidays or even a random weekday brought him great joy. He cherished being outside with family when fishing on the boat, reminiscing about old times, and everything in between. He was always there to listen and would never let anyone feel alone. Larry's sons were his pride and joy. The guidance passed down to his children was his greatest gift which will faithfully be carried on in his legacy.

Larry is survived by his wife, Linda (Weber) Yastrab; sons, Matt (Meghann) Yastrab, Andy (Georgia) Yastrab, and Mark (Greta Holt) Yastrab; grandsons, Adrian and Jonah Yastrab; sister, Linda (Jim) Stewart; sisters-in-law, Kathy Flosi and Susan Getschman; special cousin, Pat (Mike) Hayes; and several nieces and nephews. Larry is predeceased by his parents; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Charlotte and Fred Weber; and brothers-in-law, Terry Flosi and Kevin Getschman.

The family would like to recognize Mercy Health Hospice for their great work and kindness during such a difficult time. Also, special thanks to the doctors/nurses at Mayo Clinic, University of Iowa and Rockford Carbone Cancer Center for all of their tireless efforts in treatment plans.

Services for Larry will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made directly to the family. In turn, these donations will be collected and then sent to the Holden Comprehensive Cancer Center at University of Iowa to benefit neuroendocrine tumor research.

Please send condolences and share memories of Larry at www.fitzgeraldfh.com. The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel.