John Benney

JOHN HENRY BENNEY, 70 ROCKFORD - John Henry Benney, 70, of Rockford passed away Tuesday, May 10, 2011, in his home, surrounded by his family. Born Oct. 23, 1940, in Richland Center, Wis., the son of Henry and Bernadine (Scully) Benney. Married Carol A. Wesorek (Wieczorek) on Sept. 23, 1961. He served in the U.S. Air Force for four years. John worked at Rockford Products and later Elco as a header operator, retiring as supervisor. He also held many part-time jobs through the years, most recently JCPenney for 17 years. Member of St. Edward Catholic Church, where he was the organist. He was a 4th degree member of Knights of Columbus and was an EMT and ERT for New Milford Fire Department. John was an avid reader, enjoyed trains, airplanes, never missed an air show and adored his pug, Pebbles. Survivors include his wife of 49 1/2 years, Carol; children, Carolyn J. (Cory) Vangsness of Cherry Valley, Sandra Benney and Janice Benney Allen, both of Rockford, and Timothy (Carrie) Benney of Belvidere; grandchildren, Michael Burzell, Kyle and Karah Vangsness, Nathan and Nolan Benney; brother, Stephen (Melanie) Benney; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and in-laws. Predeceased by granddaughter, Shawn "Cassey"; brother, James; infant brother, David; and parents. Special thank-you to the staff of Northern Illinois Hospice and Grief Center for the outstanding care they gave to John. Funeral Mass will be offered by Father G. Black at 11 a.m. Monday, May 16, in St. Edward Catholic Church, with visitation from 9 a.m. to time of service; Father Michael Black will officiate. Burial in Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the family for a memorial to be established at a later date. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family. To express condolences online, www.fitzgeraldfh.com.