Michael S. Doherty

Michael Doherty, 88, Rockford IL, passed away on November 22, 2025. The son of Leon P. and Ann E. (Vonder Vellen) Doherty on January 14, 1937, in Rockford, IL. He married Carol (Keiser) Doherty on May 5th, 1963, in Rockford, IL where they remained married for 40 years until her passing on February 23, 2005.

Michael grew up in Rockford, graduating from West High School in 1955, and served in the Army from 1958-1960. He proudly served the City of Rockford Fire Department for 33 years, retiring in 1996. After retiring, Mike became an avid golfer and could often be found playing at Sandy Hollow Golf Course. Mike also enjoyed spending much time fishing with his long-time friend and neighbor Don Peterson. Up North family vacations at Wihega Resort were a wonderful family tradition of 50 years that he always looked forward to, allowing for many hours of fishing. Mike was a lifelong Cubs, Packer and Notre Dame fan and truly enjoyed watching and yelling at them on the TV. November 2nd of 2016 when Cubs won the World Series was only time a Cub’s fan did not know what to do – he was one.

Lifelong member of St. Edward’s Church in Rockford.

Above all else, Michael’s greatest joy and accomplishment was family. Mike loved unconditionally – he was always there to help without being asked. He would light up in the presence of family, and his love was felt by all. He was a true example of how to live your best life.

He is survived by his children, Steve (Kathy), Jacqueline (Chuck), Tim (Sheree), and Brian (Emily); his grandchildren Ryan (Sarah), Sean (Leticia), Colin, Kyle, Alexandria, Ahna, Aiden, Stephanie, Kara and MacLain (Mitsuki); his great-grandchildren Alex, Micheal and Abigail. Special Friend and companion Margaret Knoup. Siblings Betty Koplin and Marilyn Wolfe and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, wife Carol, and siblings Paul, Larry, Marjorie, Patrick, Eleanor, Harry and Kathleen.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at UW Health, Van Matre Encompass Health Rehabilitation Institute and Northern Illinois Hospice. Also, a special thank you to lifelong friend and co-worker, Ron Hill.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A second visitation will take place on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, from 11:30 a.m. through 12:15 p.m. at St. Edward's Catholic Church, 3004 11th St, Rockford, IL 61109. Funeral Mass will be held at 12:30 p.m. Interment to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery. To share memories and condolences online, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.