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John Schmaling Obituary
John passed away peacefully at home on February 15, 2016 at the age of 89. Beloved husband of Barbara for 63 years. Loving father of Mark, Mary Anne (John) Goddard and Jeffery (Hollis). Cherished grandfather to Jennifer (Marshall) Connelly, Matthew (Rita), Shannon (Kevin) Fonger, Katie, Alex, Bryan and Joseph. Great-grandfather to Harrison and Oliver. Further survived by sister, Roberta Westberg and brother, Richard (Grace). Preceded in death by sister, Mary Lou (Rice). John was born in Rockford on September 4, 1926, to parents Bert and Vera (Mapes). After serving in the Army Air Corps in France at the end of WWII he attended and graduated from the
University of Illinois. He married Barbara (Duhigg) in 1952, and began a successful career at Factory Supplies Company where he retired after 44 years in 1991. John was a dedicated volunteer for many years at SwedishAmerican Hospital and Meals on Wheels and was a charter member of Spring Creek Congregational Church. An avid sailor, he spent many happy years on his sailboat the Wind Lass.
A memorial service to celebrate John's life will be held at 11 a.m. March 12th, at Spring Creek Congregational Church located at 4500 Spring Creek Road, Rockford, Illinois 61114. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of choice. Arrangements by Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory. Send online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Schmaling
4 Entries
Nancy Pass Gurwin
March 10, 2016
Dear Schmaling Family, I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Schmaling's passing. I have wonderful memories of him during our summers in Oshkosh. Warm regards to you all. Love, Nancy Pass Gurwin
Arlene Snap
February 22, 2016
We are sorry we can not express our sympathies in person, Barbara, but please know we are thinking of you and your family. John was so comfortable to be around, with his constant smile, and quick laugh. May God grant you peace and grace during your great loss.
The Snaps, Don & Arlene
Sandy and Steve Ballard
February 22, 2016
Jeff, Holly, Alex and Joe,
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
I don't think I ever met your dad Jeff but I do remember how very much he was a part of your lives as to how much I heard about he and your mom.
hugs to you all....
Marilyn Duhigg
February 20, 2016
Barbara and Family,
My sincere sympathy goes out to you during this difficult time.
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