Patrick “Pat” A. Molander, 67, of Cherry Valley, passed away July 1, 2026. Born to Richard and Norma (Olson) Molander in Rockford on July 18, 1958. He married Cathy Gioppo on June 17th of 1978. Pat served in the U.S. Army as a police officer from 1977 through 1979, before being honorably discharged in 1980 after becoming disabled due to an injury in the line of duty. After his discharge, he continued to volunteer at the Vet Center. This disability did not stop him from being the best dad he could be to his two children, earning the title of “Mr. Mom”; making sure to attend all sports games, help with homework, and upkeep the home. Pat was a devout Catholic and member of St. Anthony of Padua church. He was also a member of the Rockford Health Club for many years, enjoying swimming and staying active. Visiting family in Rhinelander, WI was also a love of his, which usually included a fishing trip. In his free time, he could be found cheering on the Chicago Bears, indulging in a James Patterson book, or tuning into a good Western or crime drama show.

He is survived and will be greatly missed by his wife of 48 years, Cathy; son, Tom Molander; daughter, Amy (Vittorio) Calandrella; grandchildren, Enzo and Luca Calandrella; brothers, Tim (Theresa) Molander, Greg (Tammy) Molander; sister, Lynn (Tony) Rafferty; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents, Richard and Norma; in laws, Peter and Marty Gioppo; paternal grandparents and maternal grandparents.

The family would like to extend a thank you to the staff at Medina Nursing Center in Durand and Mo Cara Hospice for their care of Pat, and a special thank you to nursing staff Sara and Angela.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. through 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 1010 Ferguson St, Rockford, IL 61102. An additional visitation will be held one hour prior to Mass. Memorial donations may be made to the family.