Aaron Byars Richeson

Aaron Byars Richeson, 81, passed away in Loves Park, Illinois on September 29, 2025. He was born in Childersburg, Alabama on June 18, 1944, son to Ralph and Pearl (Hendrix) Richeson. When Aaron was young his family moved to Rockford, where he would attend East High School, class of 1962, and meet his forever high school sweetheart, Trudy Penn. They married not long after graduation, on April 4, 1964. Aaron had a notable career as an inspector for UTC, now known as Collins Aerospace, dedicating 36 years of service before retiring in 1999. As devoted adventurers, Aaron and Trudy cultivated a tradition of family vacations that over the years took them across the United States, creating lasting memories cherished by their family. After his retirement, this spirit of exploration continued, as the couple embarked on many cruises and shared a winter home in Arizona. When at home, He and Trudy enjoyed their time with friends during card games, musical theatre dinners and attending music concerts in the park. In addition to their shared experiences, Aaron possessed a variety of personal interests. He was an avid Packers fan, bluegrass lover, enjoyed woodworking and dedicated time to collecting and fixing vintage radios. In his final moments, Trudy was at his side. Their journey together was a testament to enduring love, spanning decades filled with adventure and companionship.

He will be survived by those who loved him most, his wife of 61 years, Trudy; their children Eileen (Mark) Richeson Butt, Mark (Paula) Richeson, and Pam (Rob) Gustafson; grandchildren Madi, Chloe, Ethan, Abbi Richeson, as well as Jake and Owen Gustafson; his sister Ruth Spooner, brother Cedric (Emily) Richeson, brother-in-law Tejinder Sedeora and brother and sister-in-law Bill (Sharon) Penn; numerous nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his parents Ralph and Pearl; his brother Norman Richeson, sister Irene Sedeora, and brother-in-law Ray Spooner. A very heartfelt thank you to Lincolnshire Place, and Sanctuary Hospice, for all of the care, compassion and support they shared to Aaron and our family.

Visitation will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108, with memorial service to follow at 12:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To second online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com