John M. Lilja

John M. Lilja, 76, of Rockford, passed away on August 6, 2025 in Winterhaven, FL. Born June 30, 1949, in Rockford, the son of Marshall and Ella (Knoll) Lilja. Graduate of Auburn High School. John married Jennifer Diane Verbal on September 9, 1972. She predeceased him on December 15, 2012. John was a veteran of the U.S. Army serving in Vietnam receiving two purple hearts and a bronze star. After the military, John served his apprenticeship with the IBEW in 1971. He worked with the Local 364 as an electrician and retired in 2012. John and Jennifer enjoyed fishing together at the lake and later in life John enjoyed fixing his homes in Wisconsin and Florida.

Survived by his sister, JoAnne Clements; brother, Thomas Lilja; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews. Also predeceased by his parents; and sisters, Judy Bejcek and Sandra Lilja.

Graveside of Ashes will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 1, 2025 at Owen Center Cemetery, Rockford. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Veterans Drop-In Center, 1539 S. 4th St., Rockford, IL 61104. To share a memory or condolence, please visit www.olsonfh.com .