Ted Faber

12/8/23 - 09/12/26

Theodore “Ted” Faber passed away on September 12, 2026 at age 102 years, 9 months, and 4 days. In his final hours, he was surrounded by his dear family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives of his children: John (Gail) Faber, Sally (Dana Williams) Faber, and Candice (wife of late son, Pete) Faber; his grandchildren, Adam Faber, Susan Faber, Katherine (Avery Schneider) Williams and Jack (Alayna Barraza-Williams) Williams; He is remembered by many nieces, nephews, and the chosen family he gathered on his journey - Amy Hill, Fred Zhu, Fred and Jane Johnson, and his pals from the Potato Shack. 

Ted was born on Chicago’s Northwest side (Norwood Park) on December 8, 1923. He learned early on to marvel in and explore all the world has to offer, probably while riding several different street cars through the city to get to school, the Lincoln Park Rowing Club, various blues bars and churches where he enjoyed listening to Gospel music. He graduated from Lane Tech High School in 1942. He went on to the University of Wisconsin, where he accomplished several important life achievements: joining the Naval Reserves serving in WWII, later completing his degree in electrical engineering, and meeting the love of his life, Rosemary (Koepsell) Faber on the 2nd floor of the nurse’s dorm (which he would proudly tell you was “most illegal”).

Ted and Rosemary were married on June 18, 1949. They made a beautiful home together in South Bend, Indiana. In 1974, they moved the family to Rockford, Illinois where they would spend the rest of their professional and retired years. Ted’s sweetheart passed away in 2023.

Ted was a well-respected career man throughout his life. He was not only talented, but deeply enjoyed his “technical life.” Ted started his engineering career at Electro-Voice, maker of professional loud speakers and microphones for performers. Later, his career path changed and he served as a corporate purchasing agent for both Electro-Voice and Camcar/Textron. Ted traveled world-wide to secure the highest quality products for his companies, a role he loved. 

Never forgetting what was truly important, Ted made sure to invest in his hobbies throughout his life. He was a prolific carpenter turned woodcarver. If you were around him for long enough you’d have a beautiful piece of artwork to take home with you. He loved nature in any form - whether it was a bike path through the Wisconsin countryside, a mountainous hiking trail in Wyoming, cross-country skiing in the UP, or gazing upon vineyards lining the Mosel River hillsides. Ted revered God’s creation of the natural world. All of these he'd probably tell you these are best enjoyed with a German beer!

Ted was an example to all who met him - a good man of Christian faith. One who was tough as nails, but ever-ready to lend a hand. One who worked diligently, but never declined to take the scenic route. One as sure of himself as any man could be, but thoughtful and reflective on how he could continue to grow and serve others. He will survive in all of our hearts as the blueprint for a life well-lived.

Special thanks to those who cared for Ted at Wesley Willows (Shirley, Maya, Nate, Eddie, Valerie, Destiny, Nadia, Tony, Chaplain Allen) and Heartland Hospice (Katie, Ben). Shout out to the friends who took him out to his “bucket list restaurants”, and held his hand in his final moments on this earth. 

Ted’s family looks forward to celebrating his life and the roadmap he has prepared for us in the near future. In the meantime, hug your loved ones close, and raise a pint to the man to the century, Ted.

Our National Parks held a special place in Ted’s heart. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Park Foundation.

Cheers to 102 years! 

The family was assisted by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. To share memories and condolences online, please visit, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.