Wayne K. Thoren

Wayne K. Thoren, 92, passed away in Rockford, Illinois on Sunday, June 1, 2025. He was born on August 19, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois son of Melville and Esther (Stoltz) Thoren. A 1950 alumnus of Austin High School, Wayne went on to join the U.S. Navy during the Korean War before he embarked on a path of higher education that led him to Northern Illinois University, where he graduated with his bachelor's degree in 1960. His professional career began shortly thereafter, taking a pivotal turn when he became one of the early hires at Bergstrom Manufacturing. For over 30 years, Wayne dedicated himself, embodying the spirit of hard work and loyalty throughout his tenure. He married the love of his life, Ramona “Monie” Carnahan on June 15, 1957, and they shared almost 54 wonderful years of marriage before her passing in May of 2011. Wayne's life was rich with adventures and memories, each colored with the love for his family. Maintaining a love for the outdoors, he enjoyed fishing and camping the great northern Wisconsin and Canada, which he shared with family and friends throughout his life. Wayne enjoyed golfing well into his mid-80s and his time at the LLL club playing cribbage, doing pull tabs, and socializing with his many friends there. He also belonged to the SM & SF club, as well as the American Legion. Wayne was particularly proud of his role as a grandfather, finding joy and fulfillment in watching his grandkids shine at their sporting events. He was also very proud of his 8 (soon to be 9) great grandchildren and told everyone about them as well. His warmth and dedication extended to his community, where he attended and volunteered at Heartland Community Church until his mobility declined. A proud Shriner, he enjoyed devoting time to the parade committee and notably donned the red suit of Santa at U.W. Health Swedish American Cath Lab, bringing smiles to countless faces and embodying the spirit of giving.

He will be missed by those who loved him most, his children Steven (Tanya), Christopher (Debbie), Laura (Troy) Johnson, and Jim (Lisa) Thoren; his grandchildren Ben (Ioana), Thomas (Avani), Sarah, Brian (Megan), Elizabeth, Jackie, Lindsey, Zachary (Danielle), and Ashley; 8 great grandchildren; 4 step-grandchildren and 8 step-great grandchildren. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Monie; his parents and brother, Howard Thoren.

Visitation will take place Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 2:00p.m. until the time of memorial service at 4:00p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Informal attire is encouraged. Burial the following day, June 12, 2025, at Melugin Grove Cemetery in Compton, Illinois at 11:00a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com