Lea C. Kinne

Lea Christine Kinne, 37, of Rockford, passed away at home on August 30, 2025. She was born on August 28, 1988, daughter to Gary and Lydia (Curtis) Kinne. At the age of 10, Lea started her first battle with cancer, then again at 16, and recently, was diagnosed with colon cancer. Each battle showcased her incredible strength and resilient spirit. Lea graduated from Winnebago High School and went on to join the Life Skills program before spending a few years volunteering with the Pecatonica Public Library. She loved the time she spent there marking books, shredding papers, and engaging with the community. She also enjoyed socializing over her 15 years with the Pegasus Special Riders and their therapeutic horses. As she was growing up, Lea had a notably deep bond with her grandparents as extra caretakers; she loved vacations with her parents and maybe a few gambling trips to the casino. At home she enjoyed video games, especially Mario, and bopping in her bedroom to classic rocks like AC/DC and Aerosmith. In her final days, Lea was surrounded by her loving parents, giving her comfort and support during her last battle. They shared a bond full of love, devotion, and courage that helped her navigate the most difficult of times.

She will be missed by her parents Gary and Lydia, as well as her canine companions (and fierce protector) Mr. Bentley and Sir Harley. She is also survived by various aunts, uncles and cousins. She is predeceased by her infant twin sister Tia Marie, as well as her grandparents Bill (Jean) Kinne and Janet (Harold) Curtis.

Visitation will take place on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. with service to follow at 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, Illinois 61103. Burial to follow at Willwood Burial Park. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com