Per Lander

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Per Lander, a man whose life was imbued with ambition, compassion, generosity, and love. Born on April 14, 1939, in Sweden, Per passed away on December 13, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that will always be remembered. He resided in Davis, Illinois, having previously lived in Rockford, IL, Pecatonica, Wisconsin and Florida following his immigration from Sweden. Per lived a fulfilling life, marked by his devotion to his family, and an unwavering dedication to his work and hobbies.

Per was a self-made man who found his niche in manufacturing. His ambition drove him to be a successful entrepreneur, building a strong business from the ground up. His compassionate nature was evident in his care for his employees and his generous spirit was demonstrated in his acts of kindness. He was a member of the Svithiod Club, a recognition of his remarkable accomplishments. In his free time, Per loved woodworking, fishing, and golfing, and was a long-time bowler at Lakeside Lanes. His hobbies were more than pastimes; they were extensions of his loving nature, creating and cherishing memories with those he held dear.

Per was blessed to find love twice in his life. He was married to Marianne for over 30 years, and after her passing, he found love again with Mary Jo, to whom he was married for over 20 years. Per is survived by his children, Johan (Amy) Lander, and Maria Bagley; his grandchildren, Cecilia Lander, Thomas Harms, Miracle Bagley, and Serenity Lynn; his sister Christina Grove; and his brother Tobias (Kerstin) Lander. He was preceded in death by his parents, Erik and Valborg Lander, and his beloved spouses, Marianne and Mary Jo Lander.

Per's life was a testament to the power of love, ambition, and generosity. His legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those he touched. We encourage friends and family to share memories and upload photos to the memorial page, as a way of celebrating the extraordinary life of Per Lander.

A Celebration of Life will be held on January 17, 2026 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., at Best Dam Bar, 13965 Best Rd, Davis, IL. Per's wishes were to be cremated. His final resting place will be Twelve Mile Grove Cemetery, Pecatonica, IL.