William "Bill" K. Dornbush

William “Bill” K. Dornbush, 79, of Rockford, passed away Tuesday, August 12, 2025. He was born January 9, 1946, in Clinton, Iowa, to Kenneth C. and Arleta M. (Wood) Dornbush. Bill grew up in Albany, Illinois, and graduated from Fulton High School in 1964 as a strong three-sport athlete. He went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in 1969 from Dakota Wesleyan University, in Mitchell, South Dakota.

On June 10, 1972, Bill married Nancy Verdick, in Morrison, Illinois. They celebrated 53 years together, raising three sons and welcoming seven grandchildren into their family.

Bill served in the U.S. Army from 1970 to 1976 and built a career in accounting, including roles as a Controller at Sundstrand Corporation, VP of Finance for Warren Industries, and owner of Sonray Services.

A lifelong Chicago Bears fan and devoted sports enthusiast, Bill’s happiest moments were cheering on his grandchildren at their games. He had a passion for learning, a fascination with NASA, and a love for home projects with his sons. He cherished weekends at the family cabin on the Mississippi River, traveling, and camping with family and friends.

Bill never met a stranger; his family often joked that he made more friends on benches than most people make in a lifetime. For him, a perfect day began with a McDonald’s breakfast and ended with a drink among family and friends. His home was always open, and no one ever left feeling unwelcome.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Mathew (Elizabeth) Dornbush, Scott (Lindsey) Dornbush, and Christopher (Abby) Dornbush; grandchildren, Emma, Will, Ty, Taylor, Riley, Jack, and Mallory; siblings, Sally Wiebenga, Mary Damhoff, and Cindy VanZuiden; and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents. Bill lived a blessed life.

A celebration of Bill’s life will be held Saturday, August 23, 2025, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at IBEW Local 364, 6820 Mill Rd., Rockford, IL 61108. All flower arrangements may be delivered to the IBEW hall before 4:30 p.m. on Friday, August 22 or after 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 23. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Rockford Park District Foundation in his name. To share memories and send condolences, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.