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linda hayes
April 1, 2009
To the Kerr Family,
I'm still in shock over the death of a former high school classmate and co-worker. I can't imagine how you all are coping with life without him. He helped me many times over recent years while I was going through mortuary school and beyond. We had many things in common and laughed when ever i threatened to bring his junior high school photo to share with others. He will truely be missed for a long time and i will think of him whenever i hear .... Ecclesiastes chapter 3, "There is a time for everything...."
Noelle LaLiberty
March 31, 2009
Aaron,
I just found out today about your Dad's sudden passing. I am so sorry. To read these 14 pages of tributes gives me a small glimpse of what an amazing man he was and what a profound impact he had on those whose lives he touched. Your family will be in my prayers.
Mike Carey
March 31, 2009
I'm so sorry to read about Rev. Kerr's passing. I'm shocked. I visited Riverside almost every time I came home to Rockford for a visit. He also officiated at my father's, my mother's and most recently at my brother's funeral in Dec. 2008. He was so kind and comforting to my family and me. He was also very easy going, even when my 11 month old grandson set off the fire alarm at my mother's funeral. And the way he made sure to find out things about their lives to add to the service will be things I'll always remember. When I visit from now on I'm going to miss his sermons. Although I wasn't a member of his congregation he made me feel at home when I visited. I know he's with the Lord now and I'll see him again some day. I send my condolences to his family.
Greg Myers
March 31, 2009
My condolences. William had been to my home many times as Jr's piano teacher years ago. But what I will remember most about the several dozens of funerals I attended over the years as he officiated, was a murder/suicide that occurred between two of my clients. Even amid that tragedy he could always find the right words to say. At his second to last funeral he gave the 23 psalm as spoken from a coffee point of view (thy cream and thy sugar they comfort me). He was a very gifted man and will be missed greatly.
Kathy Randall
March 30, 2009
I would say God speed but I know he is already there. I am thankful that the Lord blessed us with such a sincere, loving individual.
March 29, 2009
Aaron, so sorry to hear of your loss. We were just in Florida the same time so I'm just now reading the paper. I have met your dad on several occasions and have much respect for him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Andrea Garnhart-Beck
Charles&Kathryn Bandy
March 29, 2009
Kathryn and I used Revernd Kerr on many Ocasion's. He did many Funeral for us, and now someone else will do the Honers for Him. let him rest in Peace for Etirnity
Dawn Puckett-Ellis
March 28, 2009
To the Kerr family,
I was shocked when I read about Rev. Kerr's passing, my heart just sank.
I met Rev. Kerr in May of 1987 when he officiated my wedding. We thought so highly of him we had him baptize our son in Sept. of 1988.
As you can see by reading the guest book Rev. Kerr has touched many lives in our community. His love will continue through his family and all who he has touched. God Bless You
Ryan Shillady
March 28, 2009
Hey Aaron, its Ryan Shillady here. Sorry to here about your dad. My thoughts are with you and your family. Take care of yourself buddy. I was thinking about when we went to Great America and Bill got soaking wet and was royally pissed at my dad for telling him he wouldnt get wet standing on the bridge and had to buy a souvenier sweatshirt to stay warm. That was awesome.
Karen Meath
March 28, 2009
I am so very sorry about Rev Kerr's passing. He was the only Pastor that I felt like he was talking to me directly from God. He made an unbelievable difference in my life, only God knows how much I will miss him. I pray for all your families healing. I know that Riverside will miss him and it will never be the same without him. He was blessed with such a God given talent to be there for people when they needed him. I know he touched my heart everytime I listended to him in church.
May God's love be with you and your family.
Frank Moyer
March 28, 2009
Dear Kerr Family:
It has been a pleasure to know Bill as a colleague in ministry during my many years in Rockford. Bill's love of music and his concern for people seemed to combine in his gift for making even strangers "feel" he had known their loved ones.
May the love of our Risen Savior be with you in these weeks of healing.
Mike and Cindi Stickley
March 28, 2009
I am very sorry to hear of Rev. Kerr's passing. He officiated at my wedding in May 1988 and my fathers funeral in July 2008. He always seemed to know just what to say to those left behind. He was a true minister to anyone in the community, not just those in his congregation. Always with a smile on his face and love in his heart. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Tressie
March 27, 2009
For the family of Pastor Kerr and the Riverside Community family~ I am so sorry for your loss. I did not know Pastor Kerr well, but what I did know of him, he was a wonderful and kind man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time of loss.
daley, mack, buss, redd families
March 27, 2009
Dear Kerr Family,
Brenna Allen was the one who suggested Reverend Kerr officiate at my Mothers' funeral. We only met the Rev then and my whole family was so impressed and comforted by the words he spoke about our mom(as though he had known her)with such a brief meeting with our family. What a truly gifted man and so suited to what he chose to do in his life. I know you were truly blessed to have had him in your lives and I am sure he will be remembered with much love.All our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this sorrowful time.
Ken Ring
March 27, 2009
Dear Mrs. Kerr & Family,
I was truly shocked to hear of Rev. Bill's passing. I was out of town. I photographed many weddings that he officiated over dating back to the mid 80's. He was such a kind and accomodating minister and always a pleasure to work with. A truly gifted man. I have many fond memories of him. He had such a great sense of humor! I always had an ongoing joke with him that he should also work in radio or TV because of his wonderful rich speaking voice. There was only one thing...that I could be his talent agent. He always laughed. He'll be really missed by all that knew him.
Again, I'm so sorry for your loss. God bless you and your family during this very trying time.
Andre Crittenden
March 27, 2009
Deepest sympathies to the family of Rev. Kerr. Bill Kerr was a pastor at Christ United Methodist Church when I was in high school and college. He had a profound positive influence on many of us with his compassion and quiet courage. Although I haven't seen him for quite some time, I know he will be missed on this earth.
R C
March 27, 2009
Bill...
Thanks for sharing your life with us.
I'll see you on the other side.
Courtney Meyer
March 27, 2009
Will,
I am really sorry about your dad. I didn't know much about him, just that he was a pastor, but I am sure that he was a great man. My thoughts and prayers are with you and if you need anything, let me know.
Elizabeth Young
March 27, 2009
I am so very sorry to hear about Rev. Kerr's passing. He officiated at my father's funeral in 1985 and more recently at my nephew's funeral, Sept. 2008. He had such a gift and knew exactly what to say to those of us who are left behind. I will always remember him and his kind words. My thoughts and prayers are with you. He was truly the best.
March 27, 2009
To Rev. Kerr's beloved family & church congregation:
I wish I could say something so wonderful & profound that you would find instant comfort. Unfortunately, I cannot add another thing that hasn't been said already. We will miss him terribly, his words, his demeanor, his soothing, comforting voice, kindness & love. God puts people in our lives for a reason & we were so blessed to have him, even for such a short time. Think of the wonderful homecoming you'll have one day going into his open arms again. I pray your sorrow will turn to joy soon with the wonderful memories he has left.
Know many are grieving & lifting prayers up for all of you. Blessings to all:
Diane Bollman
Fred Wescott
March 27, 2009
To the family of Rev. Kerr, Never in my life have I met such a loving and caring man as Rev. Kerr. So many times over the last 30 years he married, buried or baptized a member of our family. Even though we are deeply saddend by our loss, Heaven is now blessed to have him which makes us know we are watched from above. His humor and love of life will stay in our hearts for eternity.
Ron and Sue Watson
March 27, 2009
Tom and Nancy I am deeply sadden to find that your brother passed away. I know he had touched so many peoples lives and will be missed. Know that our prayers are with you and your family.
Steve MacDougall
March 26, 2009
My deepest and heart felt sympathies to the Kerr family. While I didn't know Bill on a personal level, I had the pleasure of his wisdom and messages while he was with Woodward Governor as well as when he officiated over my uncle's funeral service.
Bill will be missed greatly here on Earth, but heaven will be all the richer with him there.
Rev. Sandra Mineau
March 26, 2009
Dear members of Bill's family and church family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers in your time of grief. My love and prayers are with you. I know that God will hear all our prayers for you. I was in a SAG group with Bill and know that he was a person of faith and a believer.
Love and Peace
Sandra Mineau
henry(hank to bill) johnson
March 26, 2009
Good Bye bill, you have become the most trusted friend I have ever known.I know you are in a beautiful place right at this moment,and I will grieve for a while at your passing,and then i will try my best, to do as you would have, your very best. You took care of so many, so now you can lay beside the father and he will take care of you.
Molly Peters
March 26, 2009
Aaron,
I am so sorry to hear about your father. I did not know him well, but he did conduct my fathers and my aunts funeral. He definately had a gift and will be greatly missed by the community.
Love,
Molly Peters
Mata Seipts
March 26, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you. The time that Rev. helped me has been and will always be remembered. God will watch over the family and help you get throu this time in your life.
Allison O'Connor
March 26, 2009
Debbie, William, Tonya, and Aaron,
Bill was a wonderful man and an important part of my life. He has always been a kind person, who always knew the right words to say to my family and I when we had lost someone we loved. He was also a great mentor, and confirmation was always fun. I can't wait to see Pastor Kerr in heaven one day, and I know God has great plans for him. God bless all of you.
Courtney Olson
March 26, 2009
Dear Kerr Family,
All of Rockford will miss this dear,
eloquent, kind and wonderful man. God
seems to call the "good ones" too soon.
With deepest sympathy,
Courtney Olson
Lori Rader
March 26, 2009
Debbie, William, Aaron, Tonya:
So many wonderful tributes to Bill and his impact on so many lives in this community. I am heartbroken for all of you. God bless you and comfort you.
mary moore
March 26, 2009
Im so sorry for your loss, my condolences go out to the family and friends..we have lost a great man of god..i have had the privelege of meeting Rev Kerr at a few family and other services and he was a very powerful speaker always knew the right things to say to comfort everyone...may god rest a hand upon you and heal your hearts in this time of sorrow and grief...
Stacie Olson
March 26, 2009
Mrs. Kerr and family:
Rev. Kerr was truly one of a kind. He married my husband and I October 10th, 1982. Throughout the years we have crossed paths on many occasions. He had such compassion and a genuine ability to comfort those in times of loss. Any one who had the honor of listening to him speak, I'm sure, was impacted by his sincerity. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Ronn and Rene' Worden
March 26, 2009
To the family of Pastor Kerr and the Riverside Church congregation,
We are sorry to hear of your loss and are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time. 20 years ago, he officiated at our daughter's (Debra Kay) funeral in a very comforting way. He contributed a great deal to the many lives he touched.
Wayde and Mary Mitchell
March 26, 2009
The Kerr Family,
We are so deeply sorry for your loss. I ask that God be with with each and every member of the family in this difficult time.
Nicole Pearson(O'Connor)
March 26, 2009
Pastor Bill was an amazing man, he was so easy to listen to, I remember going to church at Riverside Community and the after fellowship and some grocery shopping we would listen to the audio recordings when we got home, and I didn’t mind because Pastor Bill was so easy to listen to. It was like he was making you a part of his family every time he greeted you. The world lost a wonderful man but the Heavens couldn't be happier. I'm very sorry for his Family and Church's loss.
Ross Fosberg
March 26, 2009
Dr. Kerr helped us through both our parents funerals in 1997. His heart was in his work..The love, kindness, and understanding will go on in our hearts for a long time. Dr. Kerr and I shared in the eulogy duties. When it was all over he said " if you keep doing these eulogys I'm going to be out of a job" I doubted that but it was surely comforting at the time.. Bless you all!
Barb Gloyd
March 26, 2009
I am sorry for your loss
Linda Michaelis
March 26, 2009
I am so sorry for your loss. God be with you and your family.
lamond waters
March 26, 2009
Mrs. Kerr
Your husband married my wife and I 7/7/07, we met again by chance at the Hoffman house around Cristmas time. It took a while for me to remember, but I never forgot the face. This was certainly unexpected. Sincerest condolences from my family to yours
LaMond & Nancy Waters
Tom Brearley
March 25, 2009
He was a great guy. He married my wife and I 9/22/84 and did both my in-laws funerals. He will be missed. Becky and I are so sorry for your loss. Tom Brearley
Jennifer Facer
March 25, 2009
Dear Kerr Family,
So sorry to hear of your loss. I have had the honor of meeting Dr. Kerr on many occasions. He buried and married many members of my family. My father's funeral was beautiful. He also baptized my oldest daughter Nicole. He was going to baptize my daughter Sydney on March 15th. We got a call that he needed to go out of town and decided to reschedule it. Everything happens for a reason. God had another plan. God bless you all. Our community has definitely suffered a loss.
Jennifer, Brad, Nicole & Sydney Facer
Richard & Christina Fairchild
March 25, 2009
Debbie and children,
Rev Kerr will truly be missed. I looked forward to his sermons. It was as if he were speaking directly to me at times. He had a way of making you feel welcome and treated everyone as a friend.
I hope this poem will give you some comfort as it did me when my mother passed last Nov.4, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2009
Brenna Allen
March 25, 2009
To The Kerr Family:
I used to work as a Funeral Director in the Rockford area a few years ago and all I can say is that Dr. Rev. William Kerr was the best pastor in Rockford and that I have known. It was so important to him to really get to know the family of the deceased and learn about the person who passed away. He would always meet with the family first in person. When he gave his sermon it was like he knew the person for years. He was very passionate about his calling and there will never be another Rev. Bill Kerr. Lastly, he sent me a sled filled with coffee ,tea, candy, etc in appreciation for my belief in him and his ability to provide compassionate service to families and for always making him my number one pastor that I would call for services. I put my sled out for Christmas every year and think of him. This year will be very sad for me, he will be missed by many.
wendy schaible
March 25, 2009
Mary,Kerr famliy ,
I am so sorry for your loss, If this brings you a smile to know that Bill had a heart for the loss and for those who needed to a kind word. He was a great listener taking time everyday to help someone in need , or just a smile or kind word. when I looked at him I saw Jesus . His heart was always showing. His mind was ever so sharp with conforting words , his voice so clear and crisp of our Lords words. I saw Christ ever so ready to extend his kindness and gentleness. Bill was hand picked by Christ to show his Love to those who had no hope. I Thank our Lord for such a man who could do the Hardest Job and who made it look so easy. I know of no other that could go to help the dead and dying to say a The most kindest words , to soften the blow of lose-ing someone. our hope Is know ing we will see Bill again with our Heavenly Father in heaven. our treasure are with our Lord . I can't wait to see him again In heaven. please Know He was a great man doing everyday Godley THings . God bless all of you ...
Vicky Lundgren
March 25, 2009
I first him when my husband and I were getting married at Fisher Chapel. He married us in '86. My condolences to all of you. You now have a very special Angel watching over you and with you always.
Patty Barrone
March 25, 2009
Reverend Kerr played a very important part in our lives as he officiated our son Blake Barrones funeral. He had a gift of making you feel as if he was talking right to you and not the whole crowd and the uligy that he delivered moved not only my husband and I but everyone in attendance. We will never forget how deeply he has touched our lives and helped us through the most difficult time. He also encouraged us to join the homicide victims group sponsored by Riverside Community Church that also helped us survive this horrible tragedy. Remember the good times and never forget the love you have and will continue to have for him and in those memories he will live on forever. Thank you for sharing him and our sincere condolences. Patty and Jerry Barrone
Darla Ruiz
March 25, 2009
Debbie,
We were out of town when we received a phone call with this shocking news. Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. We pray God's peace will surround you as you walk through these days. With love, Keith & Darla Ruiz
Lori Scholl (O'Connor)
March 25, 2009
Debbie, Aaron, Tonya and William,
I am deeply sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He was not only my Pastor, but my mentor through weddings with him, and my friend for many years. You both have meant a great deal to me and have helped me through some very tough times, and how wonderful you both were to come to my father's home on Christmas day to help us with our grief. Bill has done many funerals for my family and he touched their hearts as well. We had some fun times as well with the you and your family. My heart is grieving for your loss Debbie and you and your children are in my thoughts and prayers. But there is great music playing in heaven today!
Nancy Kelley
March 25, 2009
Aunt Mary and Tom, my heart goes out to you both. Mother and I were very saddened to learn of Bill's death. We are very grateful that you called to let us know. You will both be in our thoughts and prayers. Marilyn Kerr Kelley and Nancy Kelley
Cindy Hecker
March 25, 2009
Debbie,
I am so sorry for your sudden loss. Bill was very special to me in many ways. He helped me through some very rough times. May God be with you and your family in this difficult time.
Robert Yeager
March 25, 2009
I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing, I knew him since our high school years. My grief is shared with you his survivors
Nicole & Jeanette Saladino
March 25, 2009
Debbie,
We are so sorry for your loss. He was much to young.
Kari Erickson
March 25, 2009
Kerr Family,
My heart gos out to you all. I am so sorry to here about your father. He was a good man and always there when needed.
He will be missed dearly and I know what it feels like to the young ones especially. Bill was a man of his word when ever needed. In this time of need you will find like I did the Wisdom that he shared and taught like I did when I lost my father. That is the greatest gift now one can ever take away from you all. God Bless and I am thinking of you all.
God Bless,
Kari,Bryce and Kyle Erickson
Ken Bergstedt
March 25, 2009
Debbie - I was on the tour of Israel with Bill in 1999 with LaReau Lundquist. That is where we met. God will be with you as you adjust to his sudden homegoing. It will feel better some day. I know you will have great support from the church family too. Pastor Ken Bergstedt
Carolyn Powers
March 25, 2009
Debbie,Arron,Tonya, an William
I cannot image the sorrow you must feel in the lost of a wonderful husband and father and a friend of all. I cannot being to tell you the saddness I feel that I cannot be there to give you my sympathy in person. Pastor Kerr always was there for us in our time of saddiness and joy. See you soon
Carolyn & Gary Powers
Peder Carlson, Pastor Emeritus of Bethany
March 25, 2009
We express our sympathy to his family and the congregation in the shocking news of Pastor Kerr's sudden death. May the Lord comfort you in this time of sorrow. Rev. Peder and Jan Carlson
Jill Hazelbauer-Von der Ohe
March 25, 2009
I visited Christ United Methodist Church with my family in the late 70's. Bill contacted us and arranged a visit to our home a couple of days later. While at our home, he noticed a number of instruments in our living room. By the next Sunday, our family was performing at the morning service - something that we did often at both Christ United and then 2nd Congregational. Ultimately, my family performed all over Rockford due to the fact that Bill kept giving out our phone number. Bill and I worked together with the children of 2nd Congregational in the chapel - teaching them many songs. Specificially, I will never think of "The Lord of the Dance" without thinking of Bill. He will always have a special place in my heart.
Steve and Peggy Hicks
March 25, 2009
Debbie,Tonya,William and Aaron we will always remember the times we shared. The book shelves you and Bill gave us(we still have them). And especailly the caribbean cruise we all took together when the kids were younger. We love you guys ,will see you soon and are so very,very sorry.
Marjean Silberhorn
March 25, 2009
Bill was a kind and compassionate man who cared deeply for people. He always had time to listen and comfort. He could perform a wedding ceremony for a couple he might have met only once and make it sound as if they were old friends. I had the pleasure of working with Bill at Fisher Chapel for many years and considered him a dear friend. His sudden departure leaves a gaping hole in this community. I will miss him immensely and send my deepest sympathies to his family.
Jackie Kirkland
March 25, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Jeff and Charleen Freezeland
March 25, 2009
Kerr Family,
Our family will miss Pastor Kerr very much. Just knowing him brought a sense of goodness to our lives and his helping those in need brought comfort to so many. His many contributions will be a loss for this community. He is singing with the hosts today!
Jacque Ruch
March 25, 2009
Debbie, Will, Aaron, & Tonya,
Words cannot express my sadness for your family and our church family...while Heaven has gained an amazing man, his presence on Earth will be deeply missed. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Jacque
Connie Peppers
March 25, 2009
I will never forget Pastor Kerr. His teachings, kindness, and love for all people. He will be truly missed. Gods blessings to his family.
Brad & Daneen Tolliver
March 25, 2009
I was fortunate to have Bill touch our lives. He was a special person with a special message. I was confirmed as a teenager with Bill, he married my wife and I, and baptised our children. He has been an important part of our lives and we will never forget him!
Ron Langley
March 25, 2009
As a former professional wedding photographer, I had the honor and pleasure of photographing many of the wedding ceremonies performed by "Brother Bill" at Fisher Chapel all through the 80's & 90's. We got to know each other quite well, and I considered Bill a good friend.
As a member of the City of Rockford Pipe Band, I met and got to know Aaron; and Brother Bill attended and"officiated" at a number of Band functions.
He was always gracious and kind, with always a smile and a good word for those he met.
I will miss him greatly.
Maggie Arle
March 25, 2009
Dear Debbie and family,
I have known Bill a long time. He was a man who ALWAYS had the right words for every situation. This community has suffered a GREAT LOSS as well as you and your family. We have lost a great man and heaven as gained him...God Bless!! You and your family will remain in my prayers and thoughts.
Darla Martinovich
March 25, 2009
My sympathy for you Debbie and your family. Dr. Kerr has buried my whole family and him being there has been supportive. He has helped me in this difficult time with the funeral of my mother (my best friend) and has comfort me through this. My prayers are with you. He was a good man. I will never forget him.
kelly knodle
March 25, 2009
My condolences to the family & everyone that was touched by Rev Kerr, i did not know him on a personal level, but for years he has handled our familys passing , just recently my grandmother & father ,everyone in our family loved him , he will be truely missed , as the Rev Kerr would say job well done...
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