Vincent J. Medina, 96, of Rockford passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026, in his home with his daughters by his side. Born July 19, 1930, in Davis Junction, IL. He was the son of Mateo and Blaze (Herrera) Medina. Vincent married the love of his life, Frances (Martinez) in Dubuque, IA on August 13, 1955. They were married 64 years before her passing on October 12, 2019.

Vincent joined the Air Force in December of 1949. During his 27 years in the military, he was in telecommunications, an advisor, and an instructor. He was stationed in many countries and all over the United States. His wife and family were able to travel with him except for Vietnam. During his tour in Vietnam he earned the Bronze Star and Air Force Commendation Medals. After retiring from the military in February of 1976, Vincent sold real estate and was a United States Postman. In 1985 he graduated from Rock Valley College. During this time, he began another career at Singer Mental Health Zone. It was there that he found his passion for working with minor and adult patients, dedicating 18 years of service.

Vincent became a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1967, Post 8890, out of East Moline, IL. He then transferred to the Ross Pearson VFW Post 5149 in 1978. Vincent worked all chairs of the post before being elected to Post Commander in 1981. He was again elected Commander in the late 80's. He served as the 6th District Commander for the state of Illinois from 1993 through 1994. He was most proud of making All State District Commander and All-American District Commander in the same year. He was Director of State Americanism and Loyalty Days (Illinois) from 1999-2000 and 2000-2001. In 2022 he was honored at the Past Commanders Banquet at the VFW Post 8739 in Oregon, IL. Not only was Vincent a member of the VFW, but he was also a member of the American Legion Lt. Robert C.A. Carlson Post #1207, and VietNow. In November 2024, Vincent was honored at the Ethnic Heritage Museum as one of Rockfords Mexican American Veterans alongside his son, Larry Medina (USMC), and his grandson, Cole McCarren (US Army).

A devout Catholic, Vincent was a longtime member of St. Edward Catholic Church and lived his faith through his active involvement in the Knights of Columbus. He served as a proud and dedicated Fourth Degree Knight of the St. Rita Knights of Columbus, council #7624. He spent countless hours volunteering for many charitable causes.

Survivors include daughters; Laura (David) Wilks-Schardt of Cherry Valley, IL and Linda (Jerome) McCarren of Rockford. IL; grandchildren Amanda Wilks, Darell (Michelle) Wilks, Angela Perez, Brittani (Jake) White, Jerome (Mara) McCarren, Cole (Desiree)

McCarren and Kyle (Corie) McCarren; great-grandchildren Victoria Larrabee, Matthew and Caleb Wilks, Sydney, Lauren, Paitynn and Connor Wilks, Dominic and Alexis Perez, Azalea Rodriquez, Ryland and Aria White, Jaidyn McKinney, Kaenyn, Kamryn and Kayson McCarren, Lakelyn, Walker and Weston McCarren, Elijah, Vincent, Ella and Baby McCarren due in October; great-great grandson, Elijah Larrabee.

Predeceased by wife, Frances and son Larry Medina; his siblings Antonia Navarro, Peter Medina, John Medina, Ella Avendano, Juanita Teran, Tonnie Quevedo, Mary Medina and Guadalupe Medina.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses and OSF St. Anthony Hospital and extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Northern Illinois Hospice. We truly appreciate the care and compassion they provided for our father.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108 with a Rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue on Thursday, September 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral Mass, 11:00 a.m. at St. Edward Catholic Church, 3004 11th St, Rockford, IL 61109. Burial to follow with military honors at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to Northern Illinois Hospice or Special Olympics of Illinois. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com